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Now that you've decided to sell your home on your own, you might be wondering just what needs to be done in order to make a successful sale.

You want to get the most money possible for your home. Fortunately, the process in doing this is very simple. Here are 7 tips that you can use when selling your home on your own.

1. Value your property
You need to know just how much your property is worth on the open market. You can easily get this information about real estate prices in your area by entering your zip code information in an online database, or you can choose to hire a property appraiser. I would not recommend a real estate agent, as he/she is likely to try to change your mind. A little bit of research can really make this easy.

2. Timing
Location is not the only key to successful real estate dealings. Obviously, some home sales are forced forward due to circumstances that need immediate action for example a change of job or a divorce. However, if you can choose when you go on the market then you are going to want to start the selling process when the demand for homes in your area is high. That will assure you a better price on your home. You also want to strike when economy is booming because people will pay more for the home than in a bad economy.

3. Preparing your home
Presentation is everything in real estate sales. Homebuyers are attracted to clean, spacious and attractive houses. You are going to want to brighten-up the house and remove all of the clutter from counter tops, tables and rooms. Scrub-down your house from top to bottom before you even consider letting someone inside of it for a tour. Would you buy a dirty house?

4. Get a real estate lawyer
I know that this will cost you some money but it is worth it. An experienced real estate lawyer can help you evaluate your offers. They will act as an escrow agent to hold the down payment, evaluate complex mortgages and/or leases with options to buy, review contracts and handle your home's closing process. They will also help you to draw up your contracts etc.

5. Marketing your home
You can use a website like For Sale by Owner.com to help provide you with home exposure. Let's face it; selling your home would be almost impossible if no one knew that it was on the market. You should also place some ads in classifieds and penny savers in your areas as well. Advertise with pictures as much as possible.

6. Home inspections
All standard real estate contracts are going to give the homebuyer the right to inspect your property so you are going to need to be ready for this. Have your home inspected before you advertise. Under a general inspection, you are obligated to make major repairs to appliances, plumbing, septic, electrical and heating systems etc. You can expect your home's roof etc. to be inspected too. Any recommendations that are made do them all!

7. Closing
When it is time to close on an offer that a buyer had made, take the offer to your lawyer and have a deal made.

With proper planning and good advice, you'll be able to save thousands of dollars by selling your home privately. Invest the time to gather all the information and education you need first. It will save you both time and money in the end.