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The Critical Role of the REALTOR® – 183 Steps

 

Listed here are 183 actions, research steps, procedures, processes and review stages that might be included but not limited to each individual successful residential real estate transaction.  Depending on the transaction, some may take minutes, hours, or even days to complete, while some may not be needed. 

 

More importantly, they reflect the level of skill, knowledge and attention to detail required in today's real estate transaction, underscoring the importance of having help and guidance from someone who fully understands the process – a full time REALTOR®.   

 

 

Pre-Listing Activities

1

Make appointment with seller for listing presentation

2

Send seller a written or e-mail confirmation of listing appointment and call to confirm

3

Review pre-appointment questions

4

Research all comparable currently listed properties

5

Research sales activity for past 18 months from MLS and public records databases

6

Research "Average Days on Market" for this property of this type, price range and location

7

Download and review property tax roll information

8

Prepare "Comparable Market Analysis" (CMA) to establish fair market value

9

Obtain copy of subdivision plat/complex lay-out

10

Research property's ownership & deed type

11

Research property's public record information for lot size & dimensions

12

Research and verify legal description

13

Research property's land use coding and deed restrictions

14

Research property's current use and zoning 

15

Verify legal names of owner(s) in county's public property records

16

Prepare listing presentation package with above materials

17

Perform exterior "Curb Appeal Assessment" of subject property

18

Compile and assemble formal file on property

19

Confirm current public schools and explain impact of schools on market value

20

Review listing appointment checklist to ensure all steps and actions have been completed

 

 

 

Listing Appointment Presentation

21

Give seller an overview of current market conditions and projections

22

Review agent's and company's credentials and accomplishments in the market

23

Present company's profile and position or "niche" in the marketplace

24

Present CMA Results To Seller, including Comparables, Solds, Current Listings & Expireds

25

Offer pricing strategy based on professional judgment and interpretation of current market conditions

26

Discuss Goals With Seller To Market Effectively

27

Explain market power and benefits of Multiple Listing Service

28

Explain market power of web marketing

29

Explain the work the brokerage and agent do "behind the scenes" and agent's availability on weekends

30

Explain agent's role in taking calls to screen for qualified buyers and protect seller from curiosity seekers

31

Present and discuss strategic master marketing plan

32

Explain different agency relationships and determine seller's preference

33

Review and explain all clauses in Listing Contract & Addendum and obtain seller's signature

 

 

 

Once Property is Under Listing Agreement

34

Review current title information

35

Measure overall and heated square footage

36

Measure interior room sizes

37

Confirm lot size via owner's copy of certified survey, if available

38

Note any and all unrecorded property lines, agreements, easements

39

Obtain house plans, if applicable and available

40

Review house plans and make copy

41

Order plat map for retention in property's listing file

42

Prepare showing instructions for buyers' agents and agree on showing time window with seller

43

Obtain current mortgage loan(s) information: companies and & loan account numbers

44

Verify current loan information with lender(s)

45

Check assumability of loan(s) and any special requirements

46

Discuss possible buyer financing alternatives and options with seller

47

Review current appraisal if available

48

Identify Home Owner Association manager if applicable

49

Verify Home Owner Association Fees with manager - mandatory or optional and current annual fee

50

Order copy of Homeowner Association bylaws, if applicable

51

Research electricity availability and supplier's name and phone number

52

Calculate average utility usage from last 12 months of bills

53

Research and verify city sewer/septic tank system

54

Water System: Calculate average water fees or rates from last 12 months of bills

55

Well Water: Confirm well status, depth and output from Well Report

56

Natural Gas: Research/verify availability and supplier's name and phone number

57

Verify security system, current term of service and whether owned or leased

58

Verify if seller has transferable Termite Warranty

59

Ascertain need for lead-based paint disclosure

60

Prepare detailed list of property amenities and assess market impact

61

Prepare detailed list of property's "Inclusions & Conveyances with Sale"

62

Compile list of completed repairs and maintenance items

63

Send "Vacancy Checklist" to seller if property is vacant

64

Explain benefits of Home Owner Warranty to seller

65

Assist sellers with completion and submission of Home Owner Warranty Application

66

When received, place Home Owner Warranty in property file for conveyance at time of sale

67

Have extra key made for lockbox

68

Verify if property has rental units involved.  And if so:

69