Selling a home in California is its own choreography: price it right, prepare and market it, manage offers and disclosures, then steer the buyer's contingencies and escrow to a clean close. The sellers who net the most are the ones who prep before the sign goes in the yard.
The 12 steps, in order
- Interview agents and sign a listing agreement.
- Set a pricing strategy based on recent comparable sales.
- Complete repairs, decluttering, and staging.
- Professional photos, then list on the MLS and market the home.
- Host showings and open houses.
- Receive and compare offers (price and terms, not price alone).
- Negotiate and reach mutual acceptance.
- Open escrow; the buyer deposits earnest money.
- Deliver your seller disclosures (TDS, SPQ, NHD, and others) on time.
- Support the buyer's inspections and appraisal; negotiate any repair requests.
- Buyer removes contingencies; you sign your closing documents.
- Loan funds, the deed records, and proceeds are disbursed to you.
Pricing strategy comes first
Most overpriced homes sit, then sell for less than they would have at the right number. Your agent should bring a comparative market analysis of recent nearby sales. In Simi Valley the median is around $850,000, but your number depends on condition, location, and current demand.
Disclosures are not optional
California sellers must disclose known material facts. Standard forms include the Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS), Seller Property Questionnaire (SPQ), and Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD). Honest, complete disclosure protects you from post-closing claims.
This is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice — consult a licensed professional for your situation.
What it costs to sell
Plan for prep and staging, agent commission (negotiable), escrow and title fees, any agreed buyer credits, and prorated taxes. Net proceeds depend on your payoff and these costs — Where a number varies, confirm current figures for your transaction.
Keeping the deal together through escrow
- Respond to repair requests promptly and reasonably.
- Keep the home accessible for the appraisal.
- Watch the contingency-removal dates.
- Be ready for the final walk-through condition expectations.
A simple seller timeline to plan around
Map your sale backward from your goal close date: allow time for prep, marketing, and a typical 30–45 day escrow. Building in buffer keeps you from rushing decisions on offers or repairs. Where a number varies, confirm current figures for your transaction.
- Allow weeks for prep and staging.
- Plan marketing and showings.
- Budget 30–45 days for escrow.
- Keep a buffer for negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to sell a home in California?
Marketing time varies with price and demand; once you accept an offer, escrow typically runs 30–45 days. Where a number varies, confirm current figures for your transaction.
What must I disclose as a seller?
Known material facts affecting value or desirability, via forms like the TDS, SPQ, and NHD. When unsure, disclose and consult a professional.
Is the commission fixed?
No. Real estate commissions are negotiable and vary by agreement.
Should I make repairs before listing?
Often yes for visible or safety items, since they affect first impressions and inspection negotiations, but weigh cost against likely return with your agent.
Can I reject the buyer's repair requests?
Yes. Repairs are negotiable — you can offer repairs, a credit, a price reduction, or decline, subject to the contract terms.
When do I get my proceeds?
After the loan funds and the deed records, escrow disburses your net proceeds, usually within a day or so.
