Selling Your Home Remotely

Sometimes you need to sell a home from hundreds or thousands of miles away. Whether due to job relocation, military PCS, or other circumstances, remote selling is manageable with the right approach.

Setting Up for Remote Success

Choose the Right Agent

Your agent becomes your eyes, ears, and hands on the ground:

• Local market expertise is essential
• Communication style must match yours
• Technology comfort (video calls, digital documents)
• Willingness to handle extra coordination
• References from other remote sellers

Interview several agents. Ask specifically about their experience with remote sellers.

Establish Communication Protocols

Set expectations upfront:

• How often will you connect? (Weekly calls, daily texts?)
• What decisions can they make without you?
• What's the preferred communication method?
• What's the response time expectation?

Clear communication prevents problems.

Preparing the Home

Before You Leave

If you haven't left yet:

• Take detailed photos and videos of everything
• Note any existing damage or issues
• Complete obvious repairs
• Deep clean or arrange for cleaning
• Gather all keys, remotes, and codes

If You've Already Left

Work with your agent or hire help for:

• Professional cleaning
• Basic repairs
• Staging (if needed)
• Landscaping maintenance
• Utility management

Property Management Services

Consider a property manager for:

• Checking on the property regularly
• Handling maintenance issues
• Being present for inspections
• Managing vendors

Some agents offer limited property management. Others can refer you to services.

Managing Showings

Vacant Home Showings

If the home is vacant:

• Lockbox access for agents
• Security measures (cameras, alarm system)
• Regular check-ins to ensure it's show-ready
• Temperature management (pipes, comfort)

Occupied Home Showings

If tenants or family are still there:

• Clear showing protocols
• 24-hour notice requirements
• Schedule coordination
• Condition expectations

Technology Tools

Virtual Options

Useful for remote sellers:

• Video tours of your home
• Video calls for agent updates
• Electronic signature platforms
• Online document sharing
• Video walkthrough of inspection findings

Remote Closing

Close from anywhere with:

• Remote Online Notarization (RON)
• Mobile notary services
• Power of Attorney (for a spouse or trusted person)
• Wire transfer for proceeds

Ensure your title company and lender support remote closing.

Decision Making from Afar

Pricing Decisions

You'll need to trust market data:

• Review comparable sales data your agent provides
• Ask questions until you understand
• Trust local expertise
• Adjust expectations if feedback warrants

Offer Negotiations

When offers come in:

• Be available or set decision-making windows
• Review all terms, not just price
• Video call to discuss complex situations
• Respond promptly—delays can cost deals

Inspection Response

You won't see issues in person:

• Request photos and videos of everything
• Have your agent walk through findings via video
• Get repair estimates from local contractors
• Make informed decisions on negotiations

Costs of Remote Selling

Budget for additional expenses:

• Property management or checking services
• Maintenance while vacant
• Utilities while vacant
• Potential travel if issues arise
• Higher urgency for faster sale (time = money)

Common Challenges

Trust Issues

You can't verify everything yourself:

• Build trust with your agent through communication
• Ask for documentation and photos
• Request video calls for significant issues

Time Zone Differences

If you're in a different time zone:

• Schedule regular calls at mutually convenient times
• Use async communication (email, text) for non-urgent matters
• Set expectations about response times

Emotional Distance

Not being there can feel strange:

• It's okay to ask for extra updates
• Video tours help you feel connected
• Trust the professionals you've hired

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Need to sell a home remotely? Contact Greg Franklin or call (559) 816-7780 to discuss how I can help manage the process.