Define the goals and timeline
Start with the reason for selling, the preferred timing and any dependency on your next home. A realistic timeline includes preparation, marketing, visits, conditions in a promise to purchase and the notarial closing. It should also leave room for steps controlled by other people.
Discuss priorities beyond price, including occupancy, work you are prepared to complete, availability for visits and coordination with another purchase. These factors shape the strategy and keep important decisions from being made only under time pressure.
A broker can explain the brokerage process and applicable forms. Direct legal, tax or technical questions to professionals qualified to answer them. Clear roles make it easier to rely on the information you receive.
Gather documents and disclose carefully
The OACIQ identifies the Declarations by the seller of the immovable as an important part of a brokered sale. Gather what you know about the building, work, incidents, systems and available records. Answer accurately without minimizing a concern or filling a gap from memory when it should be verified.
Organize the deed of acquisition, certificate of location, invoices, warranties, permits, plans and reports in your possession. For a condominium, include documents obtained from the syndicate. The exact list depends on the property and transaction; the broker and notary can identify what the file requires.
An organized file supports marketing and buyer questions, but it does not make an old document current. Record dates, missing items and questions that still need clarification.
Prepare and position the property
Preparation should present the property clearly, not hide its condition. Address the maintenance items you choose to complete, reduce clutter and provide safe access to areas that should be seen. Keep records for work performed.
Positioning and the asking price should consider the property, condition, location and comparable information available at the time. An automated estimate or a nearby listing is an input, not a final conclusion.
Public presentation should remain consistent with documents and disclosures. Photographs, descriptions and factual details should help a buyer understand the property without creating a misleading impression.
Request an assessmentManage visits and review proposals
Choose visit windows that work with your routine while keeping the home accessible and secure. Put away confidential papers, medication and valuables. Plan for pets, lighting and entry instructions so each visit can take place under consistent conditions.
When a promise to purchase arrives, review the complete proposal rather than price alone: conditions, financing, inspection, inclusions, exclusions, dates and other terms. The OACIQ explains that a seller may accept, refuse or respond with a counter-proposal. Understand the effect of each choice before signing.
A counter-proposal changes the negotiation and should be prepared with the broker using the appropriate form. Do not assume a verbal exchange replaces a document or that every transaction follows the same sequence.
Track conditions through the notarial deed
After acceptance, the parties follow the conditions and timing in their documents. Financing, inspection, document review and other conditions may require separate actions. Maintain a shared calendar and keep written confirmations.
Once the conditions are fulfilled, the transaction moves toward the notary. The notarial stage includes reviewing title and preparing the deed of sale. The notary will identify the documents, funds, signatures and dates required for the file.
Prepare the transition as well: occupancy, keys, included items, readings and the expected condition of the property. A final schedule review reduces misunderstandings when closing and moving overlap.