Selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make—and you don't have to figure it out alone. I provide a guided, full-service process from pricing through closing, so you can sell with confidence in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Urbandale, Waukee, Ankeny, and surrounding communities. Start with a free home value estimate to see where you stand.
When you work with me, every step is handled with care and expertise—so there are no surprises. I'll guide you through each phase and keep you informed along the way. Get more guidance in my home selling education articles.
I walk your home room-by-room and prioritize what matters
I prepare a custom CMA using live market data
I coordinate photos, video, MLS, and online marketing
I manage showings, open houses, and buyer feedback
I review every offer and negotiate on your behalf
I track every deadline and get you to closing day
Pricing is the single most important factor in selling your home. I'll handle your pricing strategy with a detailed Comparative Market Analysis so you're confident from day one. Start with a personalized home value estimate.
Fewer showings, longer time on market, eventual price reductions. Overpriced homes often sell for less than if priced correctly from the start.
Maximum buyer interest, competitive offers, faster sale. The right price generates excitement and urgency—sometimes multiple offers.
Quick sale but money left on the table. Underpricing can also make buyers suspicious that something is wrong with the property.
You don't have to figure this out alone. I walk room-by-room with you (or virtually) to prioritize the updates that actually matter to buyers in Central Iowa. See how homes show in different Des Moines neighborhoods.
Over 95% of buyers start their search online. When you list with me, I coordinate and invest in a comprehensive marketing plan to get your home in front of the right buyers. Browse current Des Moines listings to see how I position homes online.
I hire professional photographers for wide-angle shots, proper lighting, and color correction. Listings with pro photos sell faster and for more money.
I arrange drone photography to showcase your lot, neighborhood, and proximity to amenities from above—helping your listing stand out immediately.
I produce walkthrough video tours so buyers experience your home's flow before visiting. Virtual tours are especially valuable for out-of-state buyers.
I feature your home on the MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and hundreds of additional sites for maximum buyer exposure across the internet.
I run targeted Facebook and Instagram campaigns reaching active buyers. You'll also appear in my Smart Move Des Moines home search app.
I send your listing to my buyer database and agent network. Coming-soon campaigns generate buzz and anticipation before you officially hit market.
The more accessible you make your home, the faster it's likely to sell. I handle all showing instructions, coordinate schedules, collect detailed feedback after every visit, and develop your open house strategy so you always know where things stand. Curious what buyers look for? See how buyers search and tour homes on the buying side.
An offer is more than just a price—it includes terms, contingencies, and timing that all affect your bottom line. I walk you through every offer, explain the fine print, and help you choose the best combination of price, terms, and timing. Check the Des Moines Market Pulse Dashboard to understand current conditions.
Offered amount vs. asking price. I help you look at net proceeds, not just the headline number.
Cash is strongest. Pre-approved conventional loans are solid. I help you evaluate FHA/VA terms and any potential hurdles.
Larger deposits signal serious buyers. I review deposit amounts and explain what they mean for your risk.
Inspection, financing, appraisal. I explain what each contingency means and how they affect your certainty of closing.
Closing date, possession date. I make sure the timeline works with your moving plans and next steps.
Seller-paid closing costs, repairs, inclusions. I calculate how these affect your true net proceeds.
Once you accept an offer, expect 30–45 days of inspections, appraisals, and paperwork before handing over keys. My job is to keep you informed, on time, and advocated for from offer to closing day.
Buyer hires an inspector. They may request repairs or credits. I review the report with you, advise on what's reasonable, and negotiate any repair requests on your behalf.
The lender orders an appraisal to confirm value. If it comes in low, I help you evaluate your options—whether that's renegotiating, providing supporting data, or adjusting terms.
The title company researches ownership history. I stay in close contact with title and flag any liens or issues early so nothing delays your closing.
The buyer's lender finalizes their mortgage. Delays here are the most common reason closings get pushed—I stay in touch with the lender and buyer's agent to keep things moving.
The buyer verifies condition and that any agreed-upon repairs were completed. I make sure you're prepared and that the home is ready to hand over.
Sign paperwork at the title company. Deed transfers, funds are disbursed, and the buyer gets the keys. I'll be there to make sure everything goes smoothly—you're sold!
Knowing costs upfront helps you set realistic expectations for net proceeds. Use my real estate tools and calculators to run your own numbers.
| Cost Item | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Agent Commission | 5–6% of sale price | Split between listing and buyer's agents |
| Title Insurance | $500–$1,500 | Protects buyer against title defects |
| Closing/Settlement Fees | $300–$800 | Title company fees for handling closing |
| Transfer Taxes | $100–$500 | Iowa has minimal transfer taxes |
| Prorated Property Taxes | Varies | Your share through closing date |
| Repairs/Buyer Credits | Negotiated | Depends on inspection and negotiations |
| Home Warranty | $400–$600 | Optional—can help close deals |
As an SRES® (Seniors Real Estate Specialist), I have specialized training to help seniors and their families navigate selling a long-time family home. Whether you're downsizing, moving to assisted living, or managing an estate sale, I understand the emotional and practical complexities—and I guide you through every step with patience and care.
If you're helping a parent or loved one in the Des Moines area, I can be your on-the-ground partner from first conversation through move-out and closing. I coordinate with adult children (even out of state), senior living communities, and trusted professionals like my partners at Golden Concierge for senior living placement services. Seniors 65+ should also know about Iowa property tax benefits at 65+ that may affect your timing and decision.
Let's start with a no-pressure conversation about your goals, pricing, preparation, and timing. I'll give you an honest assessment of where you stand and a clear path forward—no obligation.
I help homeowners in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Urbandale, Waukee, Ankeny, Johnston, Grimes, Clive, and surrounding communities sell with confidence. Learn more about me, Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES® CPCU →