Selling goes faster when the paperwork and the property are ready before you list. Use this checklist to get organized.
Before you list
- Decide on your timeline and where you’ll move next.
- Get your mortgage payoff amount from your lender.
- Hire a real estate attorney. In New York, attorneys usually draft and negotiate the contract of sale.
- Meet with us for a pricing analysis based on recent comparable sales.
- Sign a listing agreement that sets out our commission and services.
Documents to gather
- Deed (for houses and condos) or stock certificate and proprietary lease (for co-ops)
- Recent property tax bills, and water and sewer bills
- Certificate of occupancy and any permits for past renovations
- Condo or co-op financials, bylaws, house rules, and monthly common charges or maintenance
- Current leases and a rent roll, if the property has tenants
- Warranties and manuals for the roof, boiler, and appliances
- Utility bills from the past year, which buyers often ask about
Get the property ready
- Declutter and deep clean every room.
- Fix small repairs: leaks, loose handles, burnt-out bulbs, sticky doors.
- Check the building’s record for open violations and clear what you can.
- Plan for photos. Read our staging tips.
After you accept an offer
- Send the accepted offer to your attorney so the contract can be drafted.
- Give access for the buyer’s inspection and appraisal.
- For co-ops and condos, cooperate with the board package or right-of-first-refusal process.
- Budget for your closing costs, including New York State and NYC transfer taxes, which sellers usually pay.
- Schedule your move and transfer or cancel utilities after closing.
Thinking about selling? Contact us for a free pricing consultation.