INDEX
About Me and My Team
Seller’s Guide
Innovative Marketing
Marketing Strategy
Staging Checklist
Pricing Your Home
Contracts and Seller's Disclosures
Seller's Property Disclosures
Seller’s Cost Commission
Escrow fees Repairs Staging
Seller’s Homework
Seller’s Worksheet
Seller’s Feature Sheet
Seller's Property Disclosures
Homeowner’s Association (HOA) Disclosure
Smoke and C02 Detector Addendum
Keys and and Remote
Pre-Showing Checklist
Photography Checklist
Past Projects
Testimonials
Notes
ABOUT ME Christine STEELE SMITH
AboutChristine
After 17 years working as a make-up artist in Los Angeles film and television, Christine transitioned to real estate in 2007 The skills she honed in the entertainment industry, including managing complex projects with confidence, building trust while working closely with clients, and creating stories that connect emotionally, continue to shape her success today. With 18 years of experience, Christine has established herself as one of Lake Oswego’s top agents and a valued community connector. As a licensed broker with Steele Smith Homes and an active resident, she offers not only expert real estate guidance but also insight into schools, services, and resources that help clients settle seamlessly into the community.
ClientService
Christine often describes herself as the Nordstrom of real estate, consistently going above and beyond for her clients. She has a keen understanding of what people need during times of transition, whether it is a growing family searching for more space, an empty nester looking to downsize, or someone relocating to the area. Her clients know her as a trusted advocate who pairs a calm, professional presence with an unwavering commitment to their goals.
BusinessPhilosophy
Christine’s business is built on putting clients first. She believes every buyer and seller deserves a high-level service experience and works as both a sharp advisor and skilled negotiator to ensure the best outcome. Because her business relies entirely on referrals, she treats each client relationship with care, knowing that trust and service are the foundation of her success. To Christine, the highest compliment is when a client recommends her to family and friends.
OnAPersonalNote
Christine discovered her passion for real estate after flipping her first home with her husband in Pasadena. That experience sparked the joy she now finds in helping others through their own transitions When she is not serving clients, Christine focuses on personal growth and giving back to the Lake Oswego community She is actively involved in the PTA, National Charity League, and JDRF “The relationships I have built here mean a great deal to me, and I proudly take an active role in supporting the community I love.”
CHRISTINE STEELE SMITH STEELE SMITH HOMES
About The Steele Smith Homes Team
The adage, “You are only as good as the company you keep,” could not be more relevant to my business today. In my 18 years of experience as a real estate broker, I have cultivated a team of consummate professionals. Each member brings a high level of expertise and specialized skills that benefit my clients. This team of talented individuals understand my vision and value of highlevel service, ensuring my clients a seamless and stress-free experience throughout each transaction.
-Christine
Let’ s Get Started
Home Seller Guide
Make a Plan
The first step is creating a plan that works for you. Together, we will discuss: Where you are moving to
The price range you are envisioning for your property
Your target date to list your home
Whether you have a timeline for when the home needs to sell
Once under contract, a typical closing takes 30–45 days. We will also discuss what matters most to you in your real estate broker.
Prior to our first meeting, I will send you a Seller Worksheet. This form helps my team and me gather key information so we can understand your needs and better serve you throughout the process.
Home Preparation
Preparing your home to shine is an important step in the selling process. Home Preparation Report: A customized report provided by my trusted professional stager. This service is fully covered by me as part of my listing package.
Staging: If you choose staging, our stagers will provide a detailed estimate tailored to your home and goals. My team and I contribute toward the staging cost to help create a strong first impression. We will review all options and costs during our meeting so you can make the best decision for your needs.
Pre-Inspection (optional): A pre-inspection is a proactive step to identify potential repairs before going on the market. If issues arise, you will have the chance to gather bids and decide how to address them on your terms and timeline.
Pricing
At our meeting, I will provide a Comprehensive Market Analysis. This report will include nearby homes with similar square footage, bedrooms, and baths. It covers active, pending, and sold listings from the past year, giving us the insight we need to determine the best pricing strategy for your property.
Paperwork
We will thoroughly review the Listing Contract and required Disclosures together. This step ensures we are aligned and that all legal requirements are in place before your home goes on the market.
Home Seller Guide
Innovative Marketing
Every home has a story, and my job is to tell it beautifully. Your property will be showcased with a full suite of marketing tools, including:
Professional photography to capture your home at its best
Elegant printed materials that put key information in buyers’ hands
Direct-mail advertising delivered to your community
Engaging digital and interactive advertising
Custom feature sheets for buyers to take away
A clear, detailed floor plan
Going on the Market
Once you’re ready, I will launch your property on the market with the following steps: Your home will be entered into the RMLS
All real estate websites will be updated with your listing within 24 hours
Printed marketing materials will be delivered to your property
A professional “For Sale” sign will be installed in your yard
A secure lockbox will be added, and we will determine showing times together
Showings
Showings are scheduled through a system called Showing Time. Buyer’s agents will contact me directly, and I will coordinate with you to confirm appointments. After each showing, I will provide feedback as soon as it is received from the buyer’s agent.
Open Houses and Broker’s Opens
Together, we will decide on the right timing and strategy for open houses based on your goals. Public open houses will allow potential buyers to experience your home in person, while broker’s opens can generate interest within the local agent community.
Receiving Offers and Negotiating Terms
When offers arrive, we will carefully review the details together, including:
Purchase price
Terms of payment and down payment
Inspection contingency period
Seller’s contributions, if applicable
Closing and possession date
I will also contact the buyer’s lender to confirm financial status. Once reviewed, you may accept, counter, or decline. When all parties agree, mutual acceptance is reached and transaction timelines begin the next day
Home Inspection
Buyers may choose to complete several inspections, such as home, roof, sewer scope, radon, oil tank, or septic These inspections are paid for by the buyer, and not every inspection will apply to every property
Home Seller Guide
Negotiating Repairs
If repairs are requested, I will guide you through the process. Together, we will evaluate the requests and determine the best strategy for responding and negotiating within the allowed timeline
Appraisal
The buyer is responsible for paying for the appraisal, which usually occurs after the inspection period. The buyer’s lender hires an independent appraiser to confirm that the property’s value supports the loan amount.
The appraiser will contact me directly to schedule a time. They will need access to the home, and the process typically takes less than an hour.
Preparing to Close
As we move toward closing, escrow will gather all necessary documents from agents and lenders. The title company will then issue a title policy to confirm the property is free and clear of liens. The owner’s title policy is paid by the seller.
The escrow company will prepare all required documents for signing. I will stay in close contact with the buyer’s agent and escrow officer to make sure everything is delivered on time.
Signing
You will sign all closing documents at the escrow office unless a mobile notary is needed. Signings are usually scheduled 2–3 days before closing. This allows the escrow officer to make adjustments if necessary and helps prevent delays
Closing
Closing occurs when the sale is officially recorded with the county and funds are successfully transferred. At that moment, ownership changes hands and the process is complete.
Closing Costs
Closing costs are based on the sales price of your home. They typically include escrow fees, the owner’s title policy, recording fees, and prorated property taxes (either payment or refund depending on the time of year). Other nominal fees may apply.
To give you clarity, I will have my escrow officer prepare a Seller’s Net Sheet, which outlines your estimated closing costs and anticipated net proceeds from the sale.
Commission
As the seller, you are responsible for paying the real estate commission for the listing agent. We will review the listing fee during our meeting.
You may also choose to make a contribution toward the buyer’s agent commission. If this is something you would like to consider, I will explain the details when we meet.
Innovative Marketing
With my marketing team, we go beyond traditional home marketing to create a tailored, high-impact strategy for your property. Every element is designed to showcase your home’s unique story and attract the right buyers. Our goal is to maximize exposure and achieve the highest possible sale price for your home.
Image Capture: Showcasing your home’s best side
Award-winning photographer
Stunning editorial quality photography
Twilight photoshoots available
If applicable: Video Tours, Drone Footage, 3-D Virtual Tours
Elegant Printed Materials: Information in the palm of buyers’ hands
Flyers, Superflyers, & PermaFlyer
Feature sheet
Room measurements & floor plan
Home energy score
If applicable: Feature in Luxury Home Magazine
Mailed Advertising: Directly to the community
Just Listed Postcards
Just Sold Postcards
Optional: Coming Soon Postcards
Interactive Advertising: Engaging buyers in person
Open houses
Broker’s opens
Internet Advertising: Leveraging social media for maximum reach
Custom property website
Social media campaigns shared via Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn
Mondo Marketing Campaign reaches over 4,000 agents surrounding the subject property
THERE’S SO MUCH MORE
Innovative Marketing
PHOTOGRAPHY
We offer professional and high-quality photographs to showcase your property in the best possible light.
3DVIRTUALTOURS:
We offer a fully immersive and interactive experience that allows potential buyers to explore your property anywhere, at any time.
VIDEOGRAPHY
We create dynamic and visually stunning videos that showcase your property in a way photographs simply cannot.
AERIALPHOTOGRAPHY:
Our professionals use top-of-the line drone technology to capture aerial photos.
THERE’S SO MUCH MORE
Innovative Marketing
Information in the palm of the buyer’s hand
Marketing Strategy
Luxury Signage
Marketing Strategy
Sharing your property with the widest community
RMLS (Regional Multiple Listing Service)
RMLS, or Regional Multiple Listing Service, is the MLS for our area—one of more than 600 MLS systems across the United States. It aggregates listing data and distributes it to IDX and VOW websites, ensuring broad visibility for properties. A single listing on RMLS can appear on numerous agent and brokerage IDX/VOW sites as well as major real estate platforms, including:
Homesnap.com
Homes.com
Realtor.com
Redfin.com
Zillow.com
Realtor.com
Trulia.com
Homefinders.com
Front Door Realty
Movoto
Homelight
CREXI
Open House
Local.com
CentralOregonRealEstate.com Instagram Facebook
Example
of RMLS Data Sheet
WORKING WITH US
Staging Checklist
As you work to get your house ready, there are 3 main goals:
1 ACCENTUATE KEY FEATURES
2. REMOVE POTENTIAL OBJECTIONS
3. ADD REAL & PERCEIVED VALUE
Decluttering&Organizing
Oneofthemostimportantstepsinpreparingyourhomeforsaleisdeclutteringand organizing.Aclean,well-organizedspacefeelsinvitingandgivesbuyerstheimpressionthat thehomehasbeenwellcaredfor.Whentheroomsarefreefromunnecessaryitems,buyers canfocusontheactualfeaturesofthehouseratherthanbeingdistractedbypersonal belongingsorclutter.Takingthetimetodeclutternowalsomakesyourfuturemoveeasierby streamliningwhatyouwillneedtopackandbringwithyou.
Painting,Updating&CompletingRepairs
Amove-inreadyhomeattractsmoreinterestandcanoftensecurestrongeroffers,while propertiesthatappearoutdatedmayrequirepriceconcessions.Bringingyourhomeupto datedoesnotalwaysrequireamajorrenovation.Inmanycases,afreshcoatofpaint, completingdeferredmaintenancetasks,ormakingafewsmallupdatescancompletely changethelookandfeelofyourhome.Thesesimpleimprovementshelpbuyersseethe property’spotentialandimaginethemselveslivingtherewithouttheneedforimmediate changes.
Cleaning
Cleanlinesshasapowerfulimpactonfirstimpressions,andwhensellingyourhomethereis nosuchthingasbeingtooclean.Aspotlesspropertyfeelswelcomingandsuggeststhatithas beenproperlymaintainedovertime.Oncedecluttering,organizing,painting,andrepairsare complete,giveyourhomeadeepcleaning.Paycloseattentiontoareasthatareoften overlooked,suchaswindows,lightfixtures,baseboards,andairvents Thekitchenand bathroomsshouldreceiveathoroughwhite-glovecleaningtomakethemsparkle Besureto alsocleantheexteriorentranceregularly,asspiderwebs,dust,anddebriscanbuildupquickly anddiminishyourhome’scurbappeal.
Styling&StagingRecommendations
Thefinalstepinpreparingyourhomeforsaleisstylingandstaging,whichaddspolishand highlightsboththepropertyandthelifestylepotentialbuyerscanenvision.Carefullychosen furnishings,décor,andfinishingtouchescantransformanemptyorordinaryroomintoa warmandinvitingspace.Awell-stagedhomephotographsbeautifullyandcapturesbuyers’ attentiononline,whilealsocreatingamemorableimpressionduringshowings.Topresent yourpropertyatitsabsolutebestandattractyouridealbuyer,takethetimetostyleeach roomthoughtfullyforbothphotosandin-persontours.
Staging
A well presented home will draw more attention from serious buyers and can greatly decrease the amount of time the home is on the market. It allows for buyers to picture themselves in the space. It all goes back to the "web appeal."
According to the National Association of Realtors, 83% of buyer’s agents reported that staging a home makes it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their future home. Additionally, 17% of agents said staging increased the dollar value of offers by 1–5% compared to similar unstaged homes. Buyers identified the living room (37%) as the most important space to stage, followed by the primary bedroom (34%) and the kitchen (23%).
STAGING: BEFORE & AFTER
Staging
STAGING: BEFORE & AFTER
Pricing your Home
What Goes Into a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is a detailed evaluation used by real estate professionals to estimate a property’s value. While the process can be complex, breaking it into key components makes it easier to understand.
The analysis typically begins by identifying at least three comparable properties (“comps”) in the same area that have sold within the past three to six months. If there aren’t enough recent sales, agents may also consider similar properties that are currently listed or under contract.
Key factors included in a CMA are:
Location: The best comps are in the same neighborhood as the subject property. If recent sales are limited, agents will use nearby areas with similar characteristics.
Lot Size: Larger lots often add value to a property.
Square Footage: More livable square footage generally increases a home’s value and can matter as much as the number of rooms.
Age and Condition: Newer homes or those with recent renovations and high-quality materials tend to be worth more.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Additional bedrooms and bathrooms typically raise a home’s value.
Special Features: Extras like fireplaces, patios, pools, garages, or finished basements can make a property more desirable.
Date of Sale: Comps should be as recent as possible within the last three to six months. Older sales may need price adjustments to reflect current market conditions.
By considering these elements together, a CMA provides sellers and buyers with a thorough and realistic estimate of a property’s market value.
Contracts & Disclosures
Contracts and disclosures are essential elements in real estate transactions that protect the rights of both buyers and sellers. Contracts outline the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, contingencies, and any special agreements between the parties involved.
Listing Agreement
A listing agreement is a type of real estate contract in which a property owner gives authority to the broker to find a buyer and represent the seller and their property to a third party.
Sellers Property Disclosure
Home seller disclosures are documents provided by the seller to the buyer that disclose information about the property and its condition. The purpose of these disclosures is to provide the buyer with full and accurate information about the property, so they can make an informed decision about their purchase.
Oregon Real Estate Agent Initial Agency Disclosure Pamphlet
The primary purpose of the Initial Agency Disclosure Pamphlet is to inform individuals about the various types of agency relationships that can exist between real estate agents and their clients. These agency relationships include seller's agent, buyer's agent, dual agent, and facilitator (also known as a transaction broker). The pamphlet explains the roles and responsibilities of each type of agent and helps clients understand the level of representation they can expect in a real estate transaction.
Disclosed Limited Agency Agreement for Sellers
A legally binding contract that defines the terms and conditions of the agency relationship between a seller and their chosen real estate agent or brokerage. In this agreement, the roles and responsibilities of both parties are clearly outlined, emphasizing that the agent's primary fiduciary duty is to represent the seller's best interests throughout the property sale process.
Contracts & Disclosures
HOA Addendum (if applicable)
This addendum outlines the homeowner’s obligation to comply with all homeowners association (HOA) governing documents.
Home Energy Score (if applicable)
A certified professional evaluates your home’s energy performance and assigns a score, similar to the yellow Energy Guide labels found on household appliances.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Oregon law requires sellers to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home and within 15 feet of each bedroom before the appraisal. A single detector can cover more than one room. These detectors are relatively inexpensive (around $20) and available at retailers such as Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Additionally, smoke detectors must be less than 10 years old. If your detectors are hard-wired and older than 10 years, they must be replaced with compliant hard-wired models that include battery backup.
FIRPTA Tax Advisory
The Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) is a federal law that governs the taxation of U.S. real estate sales involving foreign individuals or entities. Under FIRPTA, a portion of the sale proceeds may be withheld for tax purposes when a foreign seller is involved.
Advisory Regarding Electronic Funds
Wire fraud and email scams are an increasing risk in real estate transactions. Scammers may impersonate trusted advisors by using fake email addresses or phone numbers to trick buyers or sellers into sending funds to fraudulent accounts. Always confirm wiring instructions directly with your escrow officer or title company using a verified phone number before transferring any money.
Seller’ s Cost
Commission
A percentage of the final sale price is paid to the listing agent’s brokerage. We will review the specific details together during our meeting.
Understanding the New Commission Structure for Buyer’s Agents
Under the new rules, sellers are no longer required to offer a set commission amount to the buyer’s agent through the RMLS. Instead, this has become a negotiable term in the transaction. Buyers may now request that the seller contribute toward their agent’s commission as part of their offer. Simply put, the buyer’s agent commission is now fully negotiable. We’ll discuss the implications and strategies for this during our meeting.
Strategy
Before listing your property, decide in advance if you’re willing to contribute to a buyer’s agent commission and, if so, how much. Your decision may depend on market conditions, the strength of offers, and whether you’re in a multiple-offer situation.
Escrow Fees
Once a sale price is agreed upon, the escrow company will prepare a Seller’s Net Sheet. This document provides an overview of all costs associated with the transaction so you have a clear picture of your bottom line.
Repairs
From my experience, the key to negotiating repairs is first understanding the root cause of any issue. This ensures you can respond appropriately and effectively. During our meeting, I’ll provide examples to guide you through this process.
Staging
If you choose to stage your home, our professional stagers can provide a customized estimate based on your property and goals. To help you make the strongest first impression, my team and I contribute toward staging costs. We’ll review all options, pricing, and benefits during our meeting so you can make the best decision for your needs.
Seller’ s Homework
Seller’s Worksheet
We have provided a sample Seller’s Worksheet for your reference. A fillable version will be emailed to you, which you can complete and return to us.
Feature Sheet
A Feature Sheet highlights your property’s details, including mechanical systems, neighborhood, and community information. This tool helps showcase your home’s value and appeal to potential buyers and their agents. A sample Feature Sheet is provided for review, and a fillable version will be emailed to you Please complete it and return it to Team@steelesmithhomes.com.
Seller’s Property Disclosures
A copy of the Seller’s Property Disclosures is provided for your review. You will receive the official disclosures via DocuSign to complete electronically. Please reach out to our team with any questions as you fill them out.
Homeowner’s
Association (HOA) Disclosure (if applicable)
If your property is part of an HOA, we will provide an email template to send to the HOA president. This ensures you collect all items required for the HOA Addendum. A sample is included for reference.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Install or replace detectors as needed to comply with Oregon State regulations. We have included literature outlining the current rules and requirements.
Providing House Keys for the Lockbox
One set of keys will remain in the lockbox to allow buyer’s agents access to the property during showings
Gathering Keys, Remotes, and Manuals for Closing
Sellers are expected to provide all necessary keys, remotes, and access devices to the buyer at closing. This includes:
House keys
Mailbox keys
Garage remotes
Gate openers
Smart lock access information (if applicable)
Note on Garage Remotes: Many homes now use vehicle or app-based garage access. If you no longer have a handheld remote, that’s fine we will inform buyers in advance to prevent confusion.
Photo Checklist WORK WITH US
Pre-Show or Photo Day Checklist
Kitchen
Clear and clean all countertops, appliances, sink, and backsplash
Remove items such as sponges, dish soap, compost bins, and fruit bowls; store in a bin under the sink or in a cabinet
Remove all magnets and personal items from the refrigerator. Hide trash bins.
Bathrooms
Declutter and deep clean sinks, tubs, and showers. Remove personal items such as shampoo, soap, razors, and toothbrushes; store them in a bin under the sink or in a cabinet. Hide trash bins.
Lighting
Replace any burned-out light bulbs throughout the house, including ceiling fixtures, fans, lamps, recessed lights, and exterior lighting. Try to match color tones.
Turn on all lights, including ceiling fixtures, lamps, and under-cabinet lighting to brighten the space for photos
Windows
Open all blinds, curtains, and shades to let in natural light.
Floors and Rugs
Remove floor mats and runners in high-traffic areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and laundry rooms, unless otherwise advised.
Bedrooms
Make all beds neatly. Clear all nightstands and dressers of personal items. Store shoes, jackets, and other personal items in closets.
Pets
Remove all pet items, including toys, leashes, and bowls.
Exterior & Outdoor Spaces
Sweep porches, patios, and decks
Remove all vehicles from the driveway and street. Hide garbage cans and lawn equipment.
Pre-Showing Checklist
ENTRY
hangcoats
neatly organize outdoor gear in baskets or other enclosed storage
windexfrontdoorglassinside andout
vacuumanyentrywayrugs sweep floor dust surfaces
LIVING SPACES
eliminateclutter fluffandpositionthrow pillowsandblankets
straighten and arrange books or magazines
vacuum rugs and other upholstrey as needed
windexglasssurfaces
dust remaining surfaces
OFFICE
eliminatepersonalitems nopapersshouldbevisible shutdownallcomputers anddevices
removeorlockaway valuables
make sure cords are hidden away neatly eliminateclutter windexglasssurfaces
vacuum rugs and/or carpet
KITCHEN
run garbage disposal rinse,dry,andwindexsink andfaucet
stainlesssteelpolish appliances
wipecounters
spot clean fronts of cabinets
clean stove top - no crumbs or drips
wipe out inside of microwave eliminateclutterfrom countertops remove old food from refrigerator takegarbageout dust surfaces
sweep floor
BEDROOM
eliminateclutterandlaundry neatlymakebed fluffandpositionthrow pillowsandblankets
tidy closet (eliminate unused hangers, make sure clothes are folded, and floor space is clear)
vacuum rugs and/or carpet as needed
windexglasssurfacesand mirrors dust surfaces
When time is of the essence, perform the bolded/underlined tasks first. After those are complete, get as many of the remaining tasks completed as possible!
BATHROOM
emptygarbagecan wipedownsinkandfaucet windexshowerglass windex mirror
disinfect toilet
wipedowncountertop
allpersonalcareproducts shouldbeoutofsight
dust towel bars and ledges make sure towels are folded or displayed nicely
LAUNDRY
makesurelaundryisput awayorvisiblytuckedaway inmachines
dust off washer and dryer neatly stack unused laundry baskets and drying racks straighten household products wipe down counters sweep floor
FINALSTEPS
turn on all lights display Seller’s Property Disclosure
leave garage door opener in prominent place open window treatments remove pets
set temperature to 68+ degrees
Past Projects
Past Projects
Testimonials
Christine, Wecannotthankyou enoughforyourhelpinselling ourhouse!Youreallymadethe experienceagoodthing-evenwhen emotionsranhigh. Wevalueyourprofessionalism andfriendship.
Ourentirehomebuyingexperience wasshapedandguidedbyyou. Your professionalismand thoughtfulnesswasremarkable. Truly.Youmadeourstartinanew lifetogetheravery positivethinginthemidstofthe chaosthatissometimeslife.
THANKYOU!
Christine did a wonderful job to help us navigate the complicated Portland real estate market. She advocated fiercely on our behalf while ensuring our needs and wants were met. Her follow through was outstanding and made sure, even months after the sale was completed.
Thank you so much for everything you did to make the Amberwood purchase a reality Your amazing professionalism and demeanor throughout the process make the whole thing seem easy and comfortable - which we truly appreciated
I knew from day one that you would be the right person to represent us and make the sale happen and you didn't disappoint! Thank you for all of your hard work and communication
Matt and I want to thank you for all of your hard work and diligence while helping us sell our home. We really appreciate your professionalism along the way and we feel like you did a great job representing us and our needs.
Thank you for spending so many hours with us looking for our perfect house Sometimes I thought it would never happen, but lo and behold here we are in a home we love Thank you for your enduring patience We love it here!
Working with Christine is absolutely fantastic! She was always there when we needed her through the process of buying our home She provided expertise, advice and guidance!
Christine delivered on everything she covered in the orientation to selling our home in Lake Oswego Since we had not been in the house selling market for 33 years, she "held our hands" all the way through the process. Our home sold in 7 days! We found Christine to be very compassionate about her profession and highly personal