The Ten Essentials for survival in the wilderness are as follows:

1. Map and compass and/or GPS.
2. Sun protection: for eyes and skin.
3. Insulation: extra clothing, hat.
4. Flashlight/headlamp.
5. First-aid kit.
6. Matches/lighter/fire-starter.
7. Repair kit/tools/knife.
8. Nutrition/extra food.
9. Hydration: extra water/purification system.
10. Emergency shelter.

Don't hit the trail without these things.

What are the ten essentials for selling your home? Selling your home without considering these things will not prove physically fatal, but you are not looking for a financial set back either, are you?

1. Preparation: Long before your desired sale time take a long look at your home and make a list of deferred maintenance. Start working on these things now. Landscaping takes time to mature. Painting and roofing could be issues. Heat, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical systems need to be in top shape.
2. Consultation: Interview a Realtor, or several. If you plan to purchase something else as a part of this move, get names of recommended lenders. Have your Realtor provide you with a market analysis to determining the value of your home.
3. Consideration: Give careful thought to the advice of you chosen Realtor. Should you stage your home or not? Does he offer any advice on furniture placement. Has he given you a potential time line to help you keep on schedule.  
4. Declutter: The "too full house" is one of the biggest turn offs to would be buyers. They are busy gawking at your "stuff" and pay no attention to the condition of the home, the flow of the rooms, or the ambience that has made this home special for you.
5. Goal Setting: Select the right price, not the highest price you've been told. Your goal is to sell this house. You will get a better price for your property if you price it right in the first place. Long market times lead to low ball offers. Testing the market is not a smart option. Be realistic and you will meet your goals.
6. Final Preparation: Go over safety issues. Stairways must have hand rails. Stairways must be clear of objects. If a room has an oddly placed light switch, leave the light on. Security: Key all exterior door locks alike and make sure all doors close and lock easily. Agents don't like to leave homes unsecured, but if your equipment doesn't work, it sometimes happens.
7. Availability: Make sure your home is accessible to agents for previewing and showing. The more completely you accommodate this process, the more quickly you will find the right buyer.
8. Be Unobtrusive: Don't try to help the agent show the buyers of your home its many features. The agent knows what the buyer is most interested in and will discuss those elements of the home the buyer is most interested in. A buyer, by being polite, will listen to you and not notice the things they came to see. It is best if your are not present during showings. And keep pets kenneled.
9. Listen: When your Realtor shares feedback with you, it may not be what you want to hear, but it is information from buyers who are in the market to buy something. Make adjustments to your price or the condition of your home.
10. Negotiation: There are usually four parties to a transaction. Buyers, sellers, listing agent and selling agent. That means four or more egos. You can usually get most of what you want by making sure other parties in the transaction feel compensated appropriately.

If you've considered and believe in these ten essentials, your home selling adventure will flow smoothly from beginning to end. Be sure to give your Realtor credit for guiding you through the process. For expert guidance in the greater Seattle area, give me a call. I'm interested in helping you get what you want.