A pre-listing checklist should expose missing information before marketing begins. Use this sequence with David to assign responsibilities and realistic dates. The schedule depends on the property, contractor availability, seller needs and the agreed launch strategy; it is not a fixed six-week program.
1. Establish the Property File
Collect information before making public claims.
Documents and disclosures
Gather the deed or parcel identification, available survey, plans, permits, repair records and warranties. Complete the applicable seller disclosures with accurate information and professional help where needed. List fixtures and personal property that will be included or excluded.
Association and shoreline materials
Request current dues, assessments, covenants, transfer procedures and relevant club or marina terms. For a waterfront home, gather dock and shoreline records and ask the responsible authority about the transaction or proposed work. Do not advertise automatic transfer without confirmation.
2. Set Price and Preparation Priorities
Use the same property condition in the budget and pricing analysis.
Price, proceeds and timing
Review relevant closed sales, competing listings and estimated selling costs. Agree on an initial position and the evidence that would trigger a reassessment. Coordinate the launch with moving needs and property readiness rather than assuming a particular month guarantees stronger demand.
Repairs and presentation
Make a prioritized list of active defects, deferred maintenance, cleaning, landscaping and optional cosmetic changes. Obtain quotes and assess disruption before approving work. Decide whether a pre-list inspection is useful, and handle any discovered issue through the disclosure and negotiation process.
3. Approve the Launch
Make the property easy to understand and show.
Media and listing accuracy
Approve photographs, floor plans, video and property copy for accuracy and usage rights. Label virtual staging or proposed improvements. Check room counts, measurements, amenities and lake-access descriptions against the property file. Include aerial or twilight work only where appropriate and agreed.
Distribution and showing readiness
Confirm the listing agreement, current exposure disclosures, channels, advertising scope and showing instructions. Arrange access, pet care and storage of sensitive personal items. Test the property inquiry path and agree how feedback and offers will be reviewed. The marketing plan explains the deliverables to discuss.
Sources for Planning
Reviewed September 27, 2026. Check the applicable current information for your situation.
Compass seller disclosure explanation
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions buyers and sellers ask David first.
Must every seller use private pre-marketing?
No. Discuss the available options, current disclosures and exposure tradeoffs before deciding how the home will be launched.
Should I fix every issue before listing?
Not necessarily. Prioritize safety and active damage, obtain estimates and compare repair with disclosure and pricing alternatives for the specific property.