The Minnesota Home Seller's Guide
How to sell your home for top dollar in today's market.
Who this guide is for
This home seller guide is for Minnesota homeowners who are thinking about selling, whether that is next month or next year. It explains what happens, in what order, and what you can do now to keep more of your equity.
I'm Lesley, a REALTOR® with Bridge Realty. We sell homes with a plan, and this guide shows you the plan before you ever sign a listing agreement.
Selling a home in Minnesota, step by step
- Set your goals. Your timeline, the price you need, and where you are going next shape every decision that follows.
- Learn what your home is worth. A comparative market analysis compares your home with recent sales nearby. An online estimate cannot see your updates or your home's condition.
- Review your net. A net sheet estimates what you keep after your mortgage payoff and closing costs.
- Sign a listing agreement. It sets the price, the length of the agreement, and your agent's compensation and duties.
- Complete your disclosures. Minnesota sellers disclose material facts they know about the property, and there is a separate radon disclosure.
- Prepare the home. Clean, declutter, and fix small problems. Skip remodels that will not pay you back.
- Photograph and launch. Professional photos and video, then the listing, the advertising, and the showings begin together.
- Review offers. Compare price, financing, earnest money, contingencies, and the closing date. You may accept, counter, or decline.
- Inspection and appraisal. The buyer may ask for repairs or a credit. The lender's appraisal confirms the value.
- Close. You sign with the title company, your mortgage is paid off from the proceeds, and you receive your equity.
What selling costs
Seller costs often include agent compensation as set in your listing agreement, title and closing fees, Minnesota's state deed tax, prorated property taxes, and any credits you agree to give the buyer. Your mortgage payoff also comes out of the proceeds. Ask for a net sheet before you list, and again before you accept an offer.
Mistakes to avoid
- Pricing too high to leave room. The most attention comes in the first weeks. A home that sits makes buyers wonder what is wrong with it.
- Remodeling right before you sell. A new kitchen rarely returns its cost. Paint, lighting, and repairs usually do more for less.
- Hiding a known problem. It tends to surface at inspection, when it costs you more. Disclose it and price for it.
- Staying home during showings. Buyers relax and look longer when the owner is away.
- Choosing the highest offer without reading the terms. Weak financing or heavy contingencies can cost more than a lower, cleaner offer.
- Choosing an agent on price alone. Ask what each agent will do to market your home, and how they negotiate.
How we help, and your next step
We price your home from evidence, give you a written preparation plan, market it well beyond the MLS with professional media and paid advertising, and negotiate every offer on price and terms. Our clients have given us a 5.0-star rating on Google.
Your next step is to find out what your home is worth. Request your free home value report, send us a message, or call (651) 661-4770. You can also read how we sell your home and our selling your home page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to sell a home in Minnesota?
It depends on price, condition, location, and season. After you accept an offer, closing usually takes about 30 to 45 days.
What do I have to disclose when I sell?
Minnesota sellers disclose material facts they know about the property, and there is a separate radon disclosure. An attorney can answer legal questions about your situation.
How much will I walk away with?
Your proceeds are the sale price minus your mortgage payoff and closing costs. A net sheet gives you an estimate before you accept an offer.
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Ready to make your move with Lesley The Realtor?