We’ve Never Sold a House Before... What Happens Next?

by Shannon Sanborn

I remember a couple I worked with a few years ago — newly relocated to Gainesville for work, with a home they’d lived in just long enough to fall in love with it. When it came time to sell, their biggest fear wasn’t the price, the paperwork, or even the move. It was not knowing what to expect.

And that’s something I hear a lot — whether you’ve sold before or this is your first time. Selling a home is a big deal, and the unknowns can make it feel even bigger.

So let’s walk through the process together — one step at a time — so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

Step 1: The Conversation

Every sale starts with a conversation — not a contract.

We’ll sit down (in person or virtually), talk about your goals, your timeline, your concerns, and what matters most to you. I’ll ask questions about your home, your neighborhood, and your experience in the space.

No pressure. Just listening, planning, and clarity.

Step 2: Pricing With Strategy, Not Emotion

This is where a lot of homes go wrong. It’s easy to price a home based on what you hope to get — but the market only responds to what’s competitive.

I use a Competitive Market Analysis (CMA) that looks at:

Current competing listings in your area
Buyer demand in your ZIP code and price range
What’s actively pending and recently sold
The features that make your home stand out (or might need support)

We’ll review the numbers together and set a price that reflects both value and velocity — so your home doesn’t just sit.

Step 3: Getting Market-Ready

Here’s where preparation makes all the difference — and where I help you every step of the way. I’ll walk through your home (digitally or in person) and create a simple, personalized plan to get it ready for photos and showings.

That includes:

Light decluttering
Basic repairs or updates (if needed)
Curb appeal tips
Optional staging advice
Supplying packing supplies — yes, I bring the boxes, bubble wrap, and tape

I’m not here to overwhelm you — just to help you showcase your home in the best light.

Step 4: Professional Marketing that Works

Once your home is ready, we roll out a full digital marketing strategy. This isn’t a “throw it on the MLS and hope for the best” approach — this is targeted, intentional marketing designed for today’s buyers.

Your listing includes:

✅ Professional photography
✅ Walkthrough video + virtual tour
✅ Floor plan creation
✅ A custom SEO-driven listing page
✅ Facebook + Google ad campaigns
✅ Syndication across Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and more

We make sure your home is seen — and seen by the right people.

Step 5: Showings and Feedback

Once we go live, the first 7–10 days are crucial.

I’ll help manage showings to fit your schedule, give you real-time feedback from buyers, and check in weekly with a detailed update (as part of my Communication Guarantee).

If you don’t hear from me, I reduce my commission. That’s how seriously I take staying in touch.

Step 6: Offers and Negotiation

When the right buyer comes along, I’ll help you understand the full scope of the offer — not just the price.

We’ll review:

Contingencies (financing, inspection, appraisal, etc.)
Closing dates and timelines
Strength of the buyer (cash, conventional, FHA, VA)
Net proceeds and bottom line

From there, we either accept, counter, or negotiate as needed. My job is to protect your interests and help you make the best decision for your future.

Step 7: Under Contract to Closing

Once you’re under contract, the next few weeks move quickly. I’ll guide you through:

The home inspection process
Appraisal and buyer financing
Repair negotiations (if needed)
Final walk-through and closing details

I stay in touch with the closing attorney, the buyer’s agent, and all parties involved — so you don’t have to chase anyone down.

Step 8: Closing Day

You’ll sign documents, hand over keys, and walk out with peace of mind. If you’re local, I’ll be there. If you’ve already moved, I’ll coordinate everything for you remotely.

I also make sure you’re fully prepped for:

What to leave behind
How utilities get transferred
What happens with your escrow or mortgage payoff

This is your exit — and I want it to feel smooth, simple, and meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming — especially when you know what to expect. My goal isn’t just to “get it sold” — it’s to walk you through each step with integrity, care, and a clear plan.

Whether you’re listing next week or just starting to think about it, I’m here when you’re ready — not to push you, but to guide you.