Seller Resources
Complete Home Seller's Guide for Canada
Maximize your sale price and ensure a smooth selling process with our comprehensive guide
Getting Started
Is Now the Right Time to Sell?
Consider these factors:
Recently sold homes in your area (comparables)
Active listings (your competition)
Current market trends and conditions
Your home's unique features and condition
Pricing Strategies
Common approaches to pricing:
Market Value: Price at true market value for steady interest
Competitive Pricing: Slightly below market to generate multiple offers
Premium Pricing: Above market for unique or luxury properties
Avoid Overpricing: Can result in longer market time and lower final price
Preparing Your Home
Home Staging
Professional staging can increase your sale price by 5-10%:
Rearrange furniture to maximize space and flow
Use neutral colors and décor to appeal to more buyers
Add fresh flowers and plants for a welcoming atmosphere
Consider professional staging services for vacant homes
Decluttering & Cleaning
Create a clean, spacious environment:
Remove personal items, photos, and excess furniture
Deep clean all rooms, including carpets and windows
Organize closets and storage areas to show space
Address any odors from pets, cooking, or smoking
Curb Appeal
First impressions matter:
Maintain lawn, trim hedges, and add fresh mulch
Paint or clean the front door and house exterior
Update outdoor lighting and house numbers
Add seasonal flowers or planters for color
Minor Repairs
Fix small issues before they become concerns:
Repair leaky faucets, running toilets, and dripping pipes
Patch holes, touch up paint, and fix squeaky doors
Replace burned-out light bulbs and broken fixtures
Ensure all appliances are in working order
Pricing Strategy
Comparative Market Analysis
Your agent will analyze:
Recently sold comparable properties (last 3-6 months)
Active listings in your neighborhood (competition)
Expired listings that didn't sell (market resistance)
Current market trends and seasonal factors
Determining Your Home's Value
Key factors that affect value:
Location, neighborhood, and school district
Square footage, lot size, and layout
Condition, upgrades, and recent renovations
Unique features and amenities
Strategic Pricing Approaches
Different strategies for different goals:
Price to attract multiple offers and bidding wars
Price at market value for steady, qualified interest
Build in negotiation room while staying competitive
Adjust pricing based on market feedback
Pricing Mistakes to Avoid
Common pitfalls:
Overpricing leads to longer market time and price reductions
Pricing based on emotional attachment vs. market data
Ignoring feedback from showings and market response
Not adjusting price when market conditions change
Marketing Your Home
Professional Photography
High-quality photos are essential:
Professional photos generate 61% more online views
Showcase best features with proper lighting and angles
Include exterior, interior, and detail shots
Consider drone photography for unique properties
MLS Listing & Description
Compelling listing copy attracts buyers:
Highlight unique features and recent upgrades
Include accurate room measurements and details
Mention neighborhood amenities and schools
Use engaging language that creates emotional appeal
Digital & Social Media Marketing
Maximize online exposure:
Feature on major real estate websites (Realtor.ca, etc.)
Promote on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
Use targeted ads to reach qualified buyers
Share with agent network and email campaigns
Virtual Tours & Video
Enhanced viewing experiences:
3D virtual tours let buyers explore remotely
Video walkthroughs highlight flow and features
Live virtual showings for out-of-town buyers
Increases engagement and qualified showings
Showings & Open Houses
Preparing for Showings
Make your home show-ready:
Keep home clean and tidy at all times
Open curtains/blinds to maximize natural light
Adjust temperature for comfort year-round
Remove pets and secure valuables during showings
Open House Best Practices
Maximize open house success:
Schedule during peak times (weekends, 1-4 PM)
Place directional signs in high-traffic areas
Provide feature sheets and neighborhood information
Create welcoming atmosphere with light refreshments
Safety & Security
Protect yourself and your property:
Require proof of pre-qualification for private showings
Leave home during showings (let buyers explore freely)
Lock away valuables, medications, and personal documents
Consider security cameras for added protection
Showing Flexibility
Be accommodating to maximize interest:
Allow showings on short notice when possible
Be available for evening and weekend showings
The more available you are, the faster you'll sell
Track showing feedback to adjust pricing or staging
Reviewing Offers
Understanding Offer Components
Key elements to review in every offer:
Purchase price and deposit amount
Conditions (financing, inspection, sale of buyer's home)
Closing date and possession timeline
Inclusions and exclusions (appliances, fixtures, etc.)
Negotiation Strategies
How to negotiate effectively:
Counter offers to improve price or terms
Request removal or shortening of conditions
Negotiate closing date that works for both parties
Consider entire package, not just price
Multiple Offer Situations
Managing competing offers:
Set an offer review date to encourage competition
Evaluate all offers based on price, terms, and conditions
Consider buyer's financial strength and pre-approval
Request highest and best offers from all parties
Evaluating Buyer Qualifications
Assess buyer readiness:
Verify mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds
Review deposit amount (larger deposits show commitment)
Check if buyer needs to sell their home first
Fewer conditions generally means stronger offer
Closing Process
Working with Your Lawyer
Your lawyer will handle:
Title search and property ownership verification
Mortgage discharge and payout calculations
Statement of adjustments (property taxes, utilities, etc.)
Transfer of funds and property registration
Final Walkthrough
Before closing day:
Buyer conducts final walkthrough (usually 24 hours before)
Ensure agreed-upon repairs are completed
Verify all included items remain in the home
Confirm home is in same condition as when offer accepted
Moving Out
Prepare for your move:
Book moving company well in advance
Change address with Canada Post and update all accounts
Transfer or cancel utilities as of closing date
Leave home clean and remove all personal belongings
Closing Day Checklist
On closing day:
Leave all keys, garage openers, and security codes
Provide warranty information and manuals for appliances
Complete final meter readings for utilities
Receive your proceeds from lawyer after all fees paid
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Sell Your Home?
Connect with an experienced Sutton agent who can guide you through every step of the selling process and help you achieve the best possible outcome.