What To Know Before Selling a Houston Home
Thinking about selling your home in Houston? Let’s be real—this isn’t a casual yard sale. The Houston market moves fast, but that doesn’t mean you can just throw up a “For Sale” sign and expect multiple offers overnight. Whether it’s your first time selling or you’ve done this rodeo before, here’s what you really need to know to get top dollar for your home.
Houston’s Market: What Makes It Unique
Timing Matters
Houston’s market can be unpredictable. Spring and summer tend to be hot for home sales (literally and figuratively). But that doesn’t mean you can’t sell in fall or winter—just know that buyer demand may be lower.
Pricing Smart
Forget what your neighbor sold their house for last year. Markets shift, and overpricing your home is the fastest way to scare off buyers. A solid pricing strategy is based on recent sales, condition, and location. Trust the Houston Association of Realtors stats, not your gut.
Getting Your Home Ready: First Impressions Matter
Declutter Like You Mean It
If you haven’t used it in a year, pack it, donate it, or toss it. Buyers don’t want to see overstuffed closets or counters covered in gadgets.
Fix What Needs Fixing
That leaky faucet or cracked tile? Buyers will notice. Small repairs now can save you headaches later. A pre-listing home inspection might be worth it to avoid last-minute surprises.
Curb Appeal is King
Houston’s heat is brutal on landscaping. Make sure your yard isn’t screaming “high maintenance.” Fresh mulch, trimmed bushes, and a clean entryway make a big impact.
Stage It (At Least a Little)
You don’t need a full HGTV makeover, but a little staging goes a long way. Neutral colors, light décor, and proper furniture placement make rooms look bigger and more inviting.
Personal Anecdote: One seller I worked with was convinced their oversized sectional was a selling point. Once we swapped it out for a smaller couch, the space felt twice as big. Their house sold in a week.
Disclosures & Paperwork: No Cutting Corners
Flooding & Foundation Issues
Houston homes deal with flood zones and shifting foundations. If you’ve had water damage or foundation work, disclose it. Buyers will find out anyway.
HOA & Deed Restrictions
Some neighborhoods, especially in The Woodlands or Sugar Land, have strict rules. Make sure you know what’s allowed before listing.
Repairs vs. Selling As-Is
Major repairs? You have options. Fixing issues can get you a higher price, but if you don’t want the hassle, an “as-is” sale might be best. Just be ready for a lower offer.
Choosing the Right Agent: Not All Are Created Equal
Why You Need a Pro
Selling a home isn’t the time for DIY. A good agent handles pricing, marketing, negotiations, and contracts.
What to Look For
Experience in your neighborhood, a strong marketing plan, and someone who actually answers their phone.
Red Flags
If an agent promises the highest price with zero evidence or suggests skipping inspections, run.
Avoid These Red Flags When Choosing An Agent
Marketing That Works: The Right Buyers Need to See Your Home
Professional Photos Are a Must
Blurry phone photos? Not an option. Great listing photos are non-negotiable.
Listing Descriptions Matter
No one is fooled by “cozy” when you mean “tiny.” Your listing should highlight real selling points.
Online & Social Media Exposure
Most buyers start their search online. Your home needs a presence on Zillow, Realtor.com, and social media to attract the right buyers.
Showings & Offers: Be Ready to Hustle
Keeping Your Home Show-Ready
Yes, it’s a pain, but buyers need to see a clean, inviting space. No laundry piles, no dishes in the sink.
Handling Lowball Offers
Don’t take it personally. Counter smartly, and don’t be afraid to walk away from a bad deal.
Multiple Offers? Lucky You!
Look beyond just price—closing timelines, contingencies, and financing all matter.
Closing the Deal: The Final Steps
Inspections & Appraisals
Expect buyers to ask for repairs or price adjustments based on their findings. Be ready to negotiate.
The Final Walkthrough
This is the buyer’s last check before closing. Make sure everything is in agreed-upon condition.
Closing Day
Sign the paperwork, hand over the keys, and celebrate—you did it!
Let’s Get You Sold
Thinking about selling? Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, or just ready for a change, you need an expert who knows Houston inside and out. Raquel Refuerzo has the market knowledge, strategy, and negotiation skills to get you the best deal.
