HOMEOWNER
Want to know how long it will take for the selling home process to complete?
Here are some valuable insights about the timelines for a smooth selling process.
How Much Will I Actually Walk Away With After Selling My Property?
It’s one of the biggest questions every seller has, and for good reason.
Selling a property is not just about setting a price; it's about understanding what you’ll actually walk away with once the deal is done.
Between agent commissions, closing costs, repairs, and other fees, your net proceeds can look very different from the sale price.
Knowing your bottom line helps you move forward with clarity, avoid surprises, and work with your realtor to create a smart pricing strategy that supports your goals, whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or relocating.
Seller Net Sheet Calculator
✅ Use a calculator to estimate your profits of selling your property and take the next step with clarity.
Maximize Your Home’s Value with a Pro Realtor!
Selling a home involves repairs, staging, and negotiations.
The process can take at least a month, often up to three, to close.
Partner with a professional Realtor to create a strategic selling plan based on current market conditions
Home-Selling Timeline
Step 1: Renovations and Repairs
Average time: 1-8+ weeks
Focus: Landscaping, cosmetic updates, and touch-up paint are common.
Time: Two weeks to months, depending on the work needed.
Impact: 60% of homeowners plan repairs before listing.
Step 2: Find a Real Estate Agent (Realtor)
Average time: 1-3 business days
A Realtor brings expertise, negotiation skills, and market knowledge to help homeowners sell the property looking for homeowner's best interest.
Step 3: Estimate Home Value
Average time: 1-2 business days
Agent Expertise: A skilled listing agent analyzes comparable properties, market trends, and pricing strategies to determine the optimal listing price, maximizing your home's value and appeal.
Step 4: Declutter and Appeal
Average time: 1-3+ weeks
Declutter: A clutter-free space feels larger, more inviting, and allows buyers to envision themselves in the home.
Appeal: A well-organized and tidy home enhances its visual appeal, making a strong first impression and increasing buyer interest.
Step 5: Create Your Listing
Average time: 1-2 business days
Professional Marketing to showcase the home.
Listing & Promotion: Lists the property on MLS and promotes it through online platforms, social media, and open houses.
Buyer Communication: Screens potential buyers and coordinates showings.
Step 6: Wait for Offers and Negotiate
Average time: 1-10 weeks
Offer Timing: The time it takes to receive offers varies by market conditions, property type, and demand. Factors such as location, pricing strategy, and seasonality also influence how quickly offers come in.
When negotiating, aim for reasonable terms that benefit all parties, creating a win-win scenario that leads to a smooth and successful closing.
Step 7: Under Contract
Average time: 30-45 days
1. Accept Offer: Seller and buyer sign a contract, finalizing terms.
2. Inspection: Buyer checks the home’s condition; repairs may be negotiated.
3. Appraisal: Assesses home value to confirm the sale price.
Step 8: Close the Deal
Average time: 1 business days
Closing Date: The final step in selling a home when ownership transfers to the buyer.
The title company facilitates the process by ensuring all documents are signed, payments are completed, and the property's title is legally transferred.
Why use a realtor when buying, selling, or leasing a property ?
Real Estate Professionals
Carlos Alarcon
Daniela Alarcon
Calculator & FAQs for Home Sellers in Houston, TX and surrounding areas
Seller Net Proceeds Calculator
Estimated Net Proceeds
Disclaimer: This calculator provides an estimate for informational purposes only and is not a guarantee. Costs like prorated mortgage interest, final utility bills, and other specific fees are not included. Actual net proceeds will depend on final contract terms and settlement statements. Consult with a real estate professional, attorney, and/or title company for an accurate estimate.
🔹 Preparing to Sell
1. When is the best time to sell my home?
The best time to sell often depends on your local market and personal circumstances. In Houston, spring and early summer tend to attract more buyers. However, motivated buyers are present year-round. RIMT Alarcon - Realtors can help you analyze market trends to determine your optimal listing window.
2. What documents do I need to prepare before listing my home?
You will need your property deed, mortgage statement, utility bills, property tax records, HOA documents (if applicable), and any warranties or manuals for systems or appliances that will remain in the home. Having these ready can speed up the selling process.
3. How do I determine the right asking price?
Setting the right price is critical. We consider recent comparable sales, your home's condition, location, and current market demand. A professional CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) from RIMT Alarcon - Realtors ensures you list at a price that attracts buyers and protects your equity.
4. Do I need to make repairs or upgrades before selling?
Minor repairs and cosmetic updates can significantly increase your home’s appeal and value. We will help you identify which improvements offer the best return so you don’t overspend. Contact RIMT Alarcon - Realtors for a tailored pre-listing property review.
5. Should I stage my home before listing?
Yes, staging helps buyers visualize themselves in the space, making your home more attractive. Even simple changes like decluttering and neutral decor can improve first impressions. We offer guidance or connect you with professional staging services.
6. Can I live in my home while it’s on the market?
Yes, you can, but be prepared for showings with short notice. Keep your home clean and staged. RIMT Alarcon - Realtors can coordinate appointments efficiently to minimize disruption.
7. How can I make my home stand out in a competitive market?
High-quality photos, videos, strong online presence, curb appeal, and professional marketing make your home shine. RIMT Alarcon - Realtors tailor a marketing strategy that highlights your home’s best features.
🔹 Listing & Marketing Your Property
8. How can I attract more buyers to my listing?
We use a combination of professional photography, MLS exposure, social media, paid advertising, and community networking to attract the right buyers. Each property deserves a custom plan.
9. How will a Realtor market my home?
At RIMT Alarcon - Realtors, we leverage digital campaigns, local outreach, open houses, and buyer networks. Our full-service marketing ensures maximum visibility and interest.
10. Can I sell my home without a Realtor?
While it's legally possible, it's highly discouraged. Selling a home involves pricing strategy, negotiation, legal forms, and disclosures. A Realtor ensures a smooth process, protects your interests, and often yields a higher sale price.
🔹 Offers & Negotiations
11. What happens if I get multiple offers?
We help you compare not just price, but also terms, contingencies, and timelines. Our goal is to guide you in selecting the strongest, most reliable offer.
12. How do I handle negotiations with buyers?
Negotiation is part of our service. We represent your interests to secure the best terms while maintaining a positive tone with potential buyers.
13. What are contingencies and how do they affect my sale?
Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the sale to close (e.g., financing, inspection, appraisal). We help you manage and negotiate contingencies to keep the sale on track.
🔹 Inspections, Appraisals & Disclosures
14. What is a seller’s disclosure and why is it important
What is a seller’s disclosure and why is it important? (16)
It’s a legal document where you disclose known property issues. Full transparency protects you from legal claims and builds buyer trust. RIMT Alarcon - Realtors ensures you complete this properly.
15. How do inspections and appraisals affect the sale?
Inspections may lead to repair requests. Appraisals affect financing. If the appraisal is low, we help renegotiate terms to keep the deal alive. Our goal is to navigate these with minimal stress.
16. What are common deal-breakers for buyers?
Major structural issues, roof problems, outdated systems, or unpermitted work can scare buyers. A pre-listing inspection can help you address red flags early.
🔹 Costs, Equity & Mortgage Considerations
17. What costs should I expect when selling my home?
Typical costs include agent commissions, title fees, taxes, and possible repair credits. We provide a detailed seller net sheet so you know your expected proceeds.
18. How much equity do I need to sell?
You should have enough equity to cover your mortgage balance and closing costs. We help you estimate your net proceeds accurately.
19. Can I sell my house while I’m still paying the mortgage?
Yes. Your mortgage will be paid off at closing from the proceeds. Any remaining amount is yours to keep.
🔹 During the Process
20. How long does it take to sell a home?
Timeframes vary by location and market conditions. In Houston, homes often sell within 30–60 days if priced right. RIMT Alarcon - Realtors gives you a realistic timeline based on local data.
21. What if my home doesn’t sell quickly?
If needed, we revise pricing, improve marketing, or enhance presentation. Our proactive approach ensures your home remains competitive.
22. What should I do after accepting an offer?
Stay responsive during inspections, appraisal, and title processing. We'll guide you every step until closing. This is where our experience truly makes a difference.
🔹 Closing
23. What should I expect at closing?
You'll sign final documents, settle closing costs, and hand over keys. Funds will be disbursed, and your mortgage (if applicable) will be paid off. RIMT Alarcon - Realtors coordinates with all parties to ensure a smooth, stress-free closing experience.
24. What is FIRPTA?
FIRPTA stands for the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act. It requires that when a foreign seller disposes of U.S. real estate, the buyer must withhold 15% of the gross sales price at closing and send it to the IRS. This is to ensure that the foreign seller pays any capital gains tax owed. If you’re unsure whether FIRPTA applies to your situation or need help with the required documentation, RIMT Alarcon - Realtors can guide you through the process and coordinate with your title company or tax advisor.
Schedule An Appointment With A Realtor
Ready to take the first step of your Real Estate journey?
Schedule a virtual appointment or phone call with one of our expert realtors.
During your personalized session, you'll gain:
Tailored Market Insights: Get a clear understanding of current trends in your area.
Expert Guidance: Learn the steps to buy or sell with confidence in today’s market.
Answers to Your Questions: Have all your real estate concerns addressed by professionals.
Action Plan: Walk away with a clear, customized roadmap for success.
REALM Office:
24445 Tomball Parkway, Suite 100, Tomball, TX 77375
ALL Right Reserved. Copyright 2025