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Writer's pictureDarson Grantham

Des Moines Ultimate Blueprint: How to Sell Your House Step-by-Step


how to sell a house in Des Moines
Photo Credit: Canva


Worried about making a HUGE mistake selling your house in Des Moines?  


You're not alone.


Many homeowners grapple with crucial questions like:


  • Is now the right time to sell, or should we wait?

  • How do we determine the optimal listing price?

  • What have similar homes in our area sold for recently?

With the right guidance, selling your house can be a smooth and profitable experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare your house for sale, price it competitively, market it effectively, and navigate negotiations like a pro in the Des Moines real estate market.


Before we dive in, don't forget to download our FREE "Ultimate Home Selling Checklist" to keep you on track throughout the selling process!


5 Steps to Sell Your House in Des Moines


STEP 1: The Magic of Decluttering (Why Less is More for Home Sales)


When it comes to selling your house, decluttering is your secret weapon. A clutter-free home allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space, making it more appealing and likely to sell quickly. 


The goal here is not for someone to realistically see themselves using your stuff to live, but allowing them to see enough to believe that their personal items will be the final touch to making it their home!


Start by tackling one room at a time:


  1. Remove personal items like family photos and mementos

  2. Clear countertops and surfaces

  3. Organize closets and storage areas

  4. Consider renting a storage unit for excess items


Pro tip: Des Moines has several professional decluttering services that can help you prepare your house for sale. When homeowners hire us, we will align them with a professional to give them guidance on how much declutter is JUST the right amount!


Once you've decluttered, it's time to stage your home if it is vacant.  If you will be living there while showings are happening you have options for partial staging or a simple interior designer consult that will give you guidance on how to better design your home with your current belongings, but I can promise this will entail a fair amount of declutter also!


Staging & proper professional design will help highlight your home's best features and create an inviting atmosphere. Consider these tips:


  • Use neutral colors to appeal to a wide range of buyers

  • Rearrange furniture to maximize space

  • Add fresh flowers or plants for a touch of life

  • Ensure each room has a clear purpose


Local Des Moines stagers like Hive Interiors and Alt Design Studio can transform your space into a buyer's dream.


Ready to take the next step in selling your Des Moines home? Book a FREE consultation to discuss your specific needs and learn how we can help you achieve your real estate goals!


STEP 2: How to Price Your Home for a Quick Sale in Des Moines (and Max Profit!)


Pricing your home correctly is crucial for a successful sale. Set the price too high, and you risk your home sitting on the market for months. We’ve all seen a beautiful home that doesn’t sell and we start to wonder, what is wrong with that place, others don’t want it, so I bet something is wrong with it!


Price it too low, and you could leave money on the table, that being said, depending on market conditions, pricing too low, will likely simply create a bidding war, which can also be a huge benefit!


Factors that influence your home's value include:


  • Location (neighborhood, school district, proximity to amenities)

  • Size and layout

  • Age and condition

  • Recent upgrades or renovations

  • Current market conditions, competition, financing, and economic in Des Moines & potentially your neighborhood. 


As one of the best local real estate agents to sell your home in Iowa, I'll conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine the optimal price for your home. This involves analyzing recent sales of similar properties in your area to gauge the current market value.



STEP 3: Your Home's Marketing Dream Team (Online Listings, Social Media, and More)


In today's digital age, effectively marketing your home online is essential. Here's how we'll showcase your Des Moines property to potential buyers:


  1. Professional photography

  2. Compelling listing descriptions on popular real estate websites

  3. Social media campaigns targeting local buyers

  4. Email marketing to our network of interested buyers & their friends

  5. Traditional marketing methods like yard signs and open houses


Virtual tours have also become increasingly popular in Des Moines real estate, allowing out-of-town buyers to explore homes remotely. You can leverage this technology to give your home maximum exposure if you have the means.


STEP 4: Mastering the Art of Negotiation to Sell Your House in Des Moines (Get the Deal YOU Want)


Choosing an experienced agent to list your home is a huge factor when it comes to negotiating.  Today, the top realtors are negotiating hundreds of times per year and a realtor that specifically knows your neighborhood and type of house make your changes of pocketing the most cash for your home sale. 


Once offers start rolling in, it's time to negotiate. Here are some tips to help you secure the best deal:


  1. Stay calm and objective

  2. Consider the entire offer, not just the price

  3. Be prepared to counter-offer

  4. Know your bottom line

  5. Be willing to compromise on minor issues


Remember, as your agent, I'll be there to guide you through each step of the negotiation process, ensuring your interests are protected.  I’ve now closed over 200 successful transactions and have saved my sellers hundreds of thousands of dollars during negotiations. 


STEP 5: Closing Time (What Happens Now?)


Congratulations! You've accepted an offer. Now it's time to navigate the closing process. Here's what to expect:


  1. Home inspection and potential negotiations

  2. Appraisal (if required by the buyer's lender)

  3. Final walk-through

  4. Signing closing documents

  5. Handing over the keys


Don't forget about moving logistics! Des Moines has several reputable moving companies like Blue Cow Moving and Storage, Adam’s Moving, and Adamantine Spine Moving that can help make your transition smooth.


speak with a local realtor

Ready to put this blueprint into action and sell your Des Moines home? Download our FREE "Ultimate Home Selling Checklist" and book a FREE consultation today to get started on your home selling journey!



By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the Des Moines real estate market and sell your home quickly and profitably. If you're still wondering "Should I sell my house or rent it out?", we can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your unique situation and the current Des Moines market conditions.


Remember, whether you're looking to learn how to sell a house and make a profit, searching for the best local real estate agent to sell your home in Iowa, or need guidance on how to prepare your house for sale, we're here to help every step of the way. With our expertise in Des Moines real estate, we'll ensure your home selling experience is as smooth and profitable as possible.




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