Selling Your Home from Out of State

Selling your house while you're still living in it can be a rough road, but selling your house from out of state has its own set of curves and speed bumps to navigate. "Out of sight, out of mind" definitely doesn't apply when you're selling real estate from a distance.

With careful planning, you'll be cruising smoothly down the real estate highway. Use this helpful checklist of tips for selling your house from out of state.

1. Have the Home Move-In Ready
   When you're selling your house and not living in it, buyers can take immediate occupancy, which is a big advantage. Make sure all your possessions are removed, and the house is spotless. You should also have the home inspected and take care of any repairs that might hold up the process.
2. Use Appropriate Staging
   "Move-in ready" doesn't mean the home should be completely bare. A totally empty house creates an air of abandonment, leading buyers to wonder if there's a serious problem. Your best bet is hiring a professional stager who has experience maximizing visual appeal. If that's not possible, leave a few pieces of furniture to provide some perspective.
3. Find a Reliable Real Estate Agent
   A real estate agent represents the best interests of their clients, which becomes even more crucial when selling your house from out of state. In addition, a good real estate agent will have their finger on the pulse of your home's market and keep you up-to-date with all developments.
4. Fine-Tune Your Pricing Strategy
   Are you comfortable with the possibility of your home sitting on the market for a while? Then you can afford to start off with a price on the higher end. If your goal is to sell your house as quickly as possible, set the price accordingly without sacrificing fair value.
5. Leverage Marketing Tools
   Online listings, flyers, and other marketing materials become even more significant when you're selling your house from afar. Craft a comprehensive, well-rounded marketing campaign utilizing all the tools at your disposal. Review each element thoroughly to ensure they effectively communicate your message.
6. Determine Your Target Audience
   Part of a successful marketing strategy is knowing just which market you want to reach. Is the house in an area with a good school district and other family-friendly features? Maybe it's in a neighborhood geared toward baby boomers or retirees. The greater focus you have, the more efficient your marketing will be.
7. Work Out the Logistics
   Traditionally, a seller needs to be present when the closing takes place. Depending on how far out of state you are, that requirement might be difficult to coordinate. Look for closing companies that may offer a bit more flexibility, with options such as signing documents in your current city with a local notary as witness.
8. Consult a Tax Professional
   Each state has its own rules and regulations governing tax ramifications of selling your house. Talk to a tax attorney or CPA who can explain the different scenarios and help you reduce potential liabilities.
9. Maintain Regular Communication
   In your absence, your real estate agent and other members of your team serve as your local eyes and ears. Stay in touch on a consistent basis, so you know what's going on, and your team stays apprised of your wishes.

You don't have to travel blind when selling your house from out of state. Keep your eye on the final destination, and you won't go wrong. 

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