You worked for weeks getting your home show-ready: organizing, cleaning, and finishing up those half-started projects. The sign went up, the people came through, and you accepted an offer. Maybe this all happened faster than you anticipated; some homes go under contract in just a few days, and the speed of the process can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Here are some of the most common questions that I'm asked by sellers:

1. What do I need to do now?

The home inspections are the first order of business. Buyers usually pay for all of them, typically a whole home inspection, pest, radon test and well/septic. If at all possible, you'll want to be out of the way for the home inspection, since the buyers will likely join the inspector for a walk-through at the end.  For radon, a test kit will be set up in the basement or lowest habitable level and retrieved 48 hours later. During that time, the windows should remain shut and doors should have normal use, but not be left open. If elevated levels are found, the buyers will probably ask to have a mitigation system installed, which typically runs about $1000. The well and septic inspections do not take long, and you can be home during those. If septic pumping is recommended, that will be your responsibility.

2. What happens if there are problems with the inspections?

Then there are choices to be made. Depending on how the buyers feel about the information revealed through the inspections, there may be a second phase of negotiations. I always aim to make things as easy as possible on my clients, so I will propose solutions with that in mind.

3. When should I start packing?

It's smart to immediately begin packing anything that you won't need in the next few weeks. I recommend committing at least an hour a day to packing until you are left with just your furniture and essentials for living. Ask me for a copy of my report of 10 Pro Tips for a Smooth Move report. It's also smart to make arrangements for a storage unit if you won't be able to move directly into your new home.

4. What else do I need to do before closing?

Make sure you have a place to go once your home sells, and get as much ready as possible ahead of time so you aren't completely stressed out at the end. Enlist some help if you need it. About a week before closing, contact your utility companies to give a move-out date. If you're buying a new home also, make sure your insurance company has all the information they need to make the switch. Inform the post office of your change of address, as well as your employer and any accounts you receive bills from.  And don't forget to give the place a good final cleaning.

Although moving is a stressful life event in even the best circumstances, being prepared for what's ahead will minimize the hassle. Just know there are often periods where all you can do is wait, which can be stressful in and of itself. But you're never stuck on your own to figure it all out – that's what I'm here for! I will handle the scheduling, coordination and communication needed to keep things rolling forward smoothly. I will provide ideas, advice, and referrals to help you along the way. I'm on this journey with you! You've got this.