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MY REAL ESTATE BLOG

Thinking of selling in 2026?

Ask these 7 Questions before you list.


The questions most sellers forget to ask — until it's too late.


In 2026, the housing market rewards sellers who prepare. Mortgage rates, buyer behavior, and pricing strategy have all shifted. One wrong move at listing time can cost you tens of thousands of dollars and weeks of unnecessary stress.


Below are the 7 most important questions to get answered before your home hits the market, and exactly what a smart agent should be telling you.


Modern luxury living room with clean neutral tones and bold typography highlighting the importance of asking the right questions before selling your home in today’s real estate market.

1

What is my home actually worth in today's market — not last year's?

Home values have shifted significantly. An accurate comparative market analysis (CMA) using current data — not outdated Zestimates — is your foundation for everything.

2

What repairs or upgrades will give me the best return on investment?

Not every upgrade pays off. Some $500 fixes add thousands to your sale price. Others are a complete waste. You need to know which is which before you spend a dollar.

3

How long are homes like mine sitting on the market right now?

Days on market tells you everything about buyer demand in your price range. If similar homes are sitting for 60+ days, your pricing and strategy need to account for that.

4

What is the true cost of selling — and what will I net at closing?

Agent commissions, closing costs, concessions, and staging fees add up fast. You need a realistic net sheet before you decide whether now is the right time to sell.

5

How will you market my home to reach today's buyers — including AI search?

Buyers in 2026 start their search on Google, ChatGPT, and Zillow. Your listing needs professional photos, video, and a marketing plan that reaches buyers across all platforms.

6

What is the best timing to list for maximum offers?

Listing on the wrong day or in the wrong week can mean fewer showings and weaker offers. Local market timing is a strategy, not a guess.

7

How do you handle multiple offers — and how do you protect me in negotiations?

Getting multiple offers is great. Choosing the wrong one can cost you. Understanding contingencies, financing strength, and escalation clauses is critical.


82% of sellers who skipped pre-listing prep left money on the table

30 mins all it takes to get a full picture of your home's value

$0cost for your consultation — zero obligation, zero pressure


No pressure. No obligation. 100% free.


 
 
 

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Content by Laura Nelson Real Estate Team Brentwood Realtor®

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