How a Property Sale Works - From First Contact to Key Handover

Selling your home is a big event, and especially if it’s your first time, the process can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. Here, we walk through how a property sale works, step by step, so you know what to expect and can feel confident throughout the journey.

1. Valuation and Brokerage Agreement

Everything starts when you contact a real estate agent. Often, a home visit is scheduled where the agent values the property and gives advice on sales strategy, marketing, and timing. You'll receive an estimate of your home’s value and concrete tips on small improvements to enhance its appeal before selling.

The valuation is completely free and comes with no obligation - but if everything feels right and you want to proceed with that agent, the next step is to sign a brokerage agreement. That’s when things officially kick off, with full focus on creating the best possible sales journey for you.

2. Preparations Before Selling

Once you've decided to sell, preparations begin:

Cleaning, styling, and any small improvements.
Professional photography and preparation of the listing description.
Collecting important documents, such as the energy performance certificate and annual financial report.

Your agent will create a tailored sales plan based on your home and target audience.

3. Listing and Viewings

Once everything is ready, the home is listed on Hemnet, social media, and other platforms. Exactly where and how it's advertised depends on what you and your agent have agreed upon - and which ad package or add-on services from Notar’s Plus Menu you've selected.

Viewings are scheduled - either open or private depending on the home and the audience. During the viewing, the agent presents the property and answers questions from potential buyers. Your job as the seller is mainly to keep the property ready for showings.

4. Bidding

After the viewings, bidding usually begins. The agent receives bids and keeps you informed throughout. Remember: the highest bid isn’t always the best. Other factors, like quick move-in availability or solid financing, can also be important.

5. Contract Signing

Once you've chosen a buyer, a contract meeting is scheduled. The agent goes through all the terms with both parties and ensures the transaction is properly documented.

The buyer pays a deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price), which is held in the agent’s client account until closing.

6. Preparations Before Closing

Your home is now sold, and you have a binding agreement. The time leading up to closing is used for:

The buyer’s mortgage process.
Your moving planning.
Any agreed-upon actions, such as repairs or additional inspections.

The agent oversees the process and ensures everything runs smoothly.

7. Closing Day

On closing day, the ownership officially changes hands. The buyer pays the remaining purchase amount and receives the keys to their new home. At the same time, a closing protocol is signed confirming that everything is complete.

From that moment, the buyer is responsible for the property.

Summary

A property sale involves several steps - but with the right support, the process is smooth and secure. Your agent will guide you through the entire journey, from the first contact and valuation to bidding and key handover.