Solutions For Selling Selling Your Home With The Raines Group
(614) 924-9000
THERAINESGROUP. COM
Table Of Contents Our Leadership Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Our Strength Is Teamwork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The Raines Group: Our Sales Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Raines Group: Our Operations Staff . . . . . . . . 7 We Believe in Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Award-Winning Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 We Appreciate Our Clients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Giving Back To Columbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Our Client Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Five Factors to Sell Your Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Comprehensive Marketing For Your Home . . . . . . . 14 The Importance of Effective Pricing . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 A Buyer’s Perspective On Home Values . . . . . . . . . 16 Is Your Home Priced Correctly? . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Getting Your Home Ready To Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Photography Appointment Checklist . . . . . . . . . . 19 Your To-Do List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 What Items Are Included? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Your Most-Loved List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Utilities Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Room Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Home Improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Words From The Seller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Interested In Working With Us? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Our Leadership Team In 1983, Sandy Raines launched her real estate career, quickly earning the prestigious title of "Rookie of the Year." Her rapid success, extensive experience, and natural leadership propelled her to Vice President at a major real estate firm in Michigan.
Sandy Raines CEO
In 1998, Sandy relocated to Columbus, where she built her own real estate team. Stephanie Masterson joined her in that same year, and together, they formed a successful partnership. Their vision and dedication led to the addition of Karla in 2003, officially establishing The Raines Group. Today, The Raines Group is a powerhouse real estate team, known for its expertise, client-focused approach, and proven track record of success. Trusted to guide clients through every step of the selling process, they have earned a stellar reputation for delivering exceptional service and results in the community.
3
Stephanie Masterson
Karla Ballenger
Broker, PARTNER & PRESIDENT
Partner & REAL ESTATE CONSULTANT
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Sandy Raines CEO
Designations & Affiliations
Business Experience
Educational Background
National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)
Started TRG Brokerage, CEO 2022
Real Estate: Certified New Home
Ohio Association of REALTORS® (OAR)
Joined HER Realtors® Brokerage, 1999
Specialist Program
Columbus Board of REALTORS® (CBR)
Ohio License Obtained, 1998
Certified Luxury Home Marketing
Founding Member of the Certified Luxury
Tomie Raines, Inc ., V .P . of Sales & Training,
Specialist Program
Home Marketing Specialist Program (CLHMS)
1988–1998
Council of Residential Specialists
Howard Brinton’s STAR Member
Michigan License Obtained, 1984
Program (CRS course work)
TRG Mastermind Moderator
Education: Middle and High School Teacher &
Formal: Michigan State University, B.S .Ed
Coach, 1972–1979
New Albany Realtors Association, Member
Other: Delta Flight Attendant, 1979–1984
Stephanie Masterson Broker, Partner and President
Designations & Affiliations
Business Experience
Ohio Realtors Board of Directors, 2024-2025
Church of Ressurection, Parish Finance Council 2020-2025
Columbus REALTORS’ Board of Directors, 2024-2027
Accredited Buyer's Representative designation, 2024
Columbus REALTORS’ Foundation Board of Trustees,
Pricing Strategy Advisor certification, 2024
2024 Secretary, Member 2023-2025
Certified Relocation Professional (CRP) designation, 2023
Columbus REALTORS’ MLS Committee + Board of
Columbus REALTORS’ President’s Commitment Award, 2022
Directors, Member 2024
Launched The Raines Group Brokerage, Principal Broker, 2022
Columbus REALTORS’ Scholarship Committee, 2023
Inaugural Leadership New Albany, Class of 2018
Chair, Member 2019-2024
Joined HER Realtors® Brokerage, Fall 1998
Independent Broker Association, Member 2023-2025
Joined New Albany Realty Brokerage, Spring 1998
Educational Background Ohio Dominican University, 2005 Bachelor's of Science Magna Cum Laude | Delta Epsilon Sigma Hondros College Ohio Real Estate Broker, Winter 2007 Ohio Sales Associate, Fall 1998 Columbus State Community College, 1998 Associates Degree - Real Estate
New Albany Chamber of Commerce, Trustee 2025-2027 New Albany Links Swim Team Board, Vice Chair 2023-2025 New Albany Intermediate School PTO, 2023-2025 New Albany Volleyball Coach, Grades 3-5, 2022-2024 New Albany Realtors Association, Member 1998-present National Association of REALTORS®, 1998-present
Karla Ballenger Partner and Real Estate Consultant
Designations & Affiliations
Business Experience
Educational Background
MLS Committee Member, 2025
Owner/Partner All Terrain Sports, 1998 - 2001
The Ohio State University
National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)
Started TRG Brokerage, Partner, 2022
College of Art & Design
Ohio Association of REALTORS® (OAR)
Ohio License Obtained, 2001
Hondros College
Columbus Board of REALTORS® (CBR)
Joined HER Realtors® Brokerage, 2001
The Raines Group, Leadership Council
Joined The Raines Group, 2003
Real Estate Investment Certification (REI)
Joined Leadership NA, 2024
Certified Staging Advocate (RESA + CSA) New Albany Realtors Association, Member Recipient of Top Agent at HER Realtors, 2001
4
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Our Strength Is Teamwork
Our Administrative Staff
At The Raines Group, we work as one cohesive team to ensure that you receive the personalized, expert service you deserve .
We trust the details to our expert administrative staff, including:
That is why we have structured our team to do exactly that – where our full-time administrative staff handles every detail, so your agent can focus on doing what they do best: helping you sell your home! Every member of our team is trained, highly skilled, and fits seamlessly within our holistic approach. From day one of listing, right through to closing, we bring proven expertise to the table .
• President • Sales Manager • Director of Operations • Marketing Manager • Client Services Managers • Client Service Assistant • Office Administrator • Marketing Intern and Operations Assistant
Our Real Estate Consultants Each of our agents is equipped with the following tools to benefit you: • Sales coaching • State-of-the-art technology • Support of full-time administrative staff • Personalized marketing support
Why do we do it? Because you deserve an expert in every area of your sale. When you put The Raines Group to work for you, you get an entire team powering the success of your sale. That’s a promise.
• Continuing education through CBR, NAR, OAR, and The Raines Group
5
THERAINESGROUP.COM
The Raines Group: Our Sales Staff
Kris Harwood Sales Manager
Our sales staff is made up of real estate experts our clients trust . Each member of our team comes equipped with unique experiences and service-focused skills to help you in your home purchase .
6
MARIAN HALLIDAY
ELIA HUGHES
JAMI BLOSEL
JEAN-LUC GRAND-PIERRE
JENNA CROWLEY
KRISTA LOFTHOUSE
CANDACE CAULKINS
EMILY BENEDICT
JENNY BILCHAK
DOMINIC CASSAN
MONICA KESSEL
JENNIFER POPHAM
RENEE MOUGIN
NICOLE RIBICH
RHONDA COX
JAMIE SECHLER
KIMARIE MARTIN
JENNA MURPHY
TYLER CUSKE
GIELA DISABATO
KELLY OGDEN
THERAINESGROUP.COM
The Raines Group: Our Operations Staff In addition to our collection of real estate experts, our operations team provides the backbone to ensuring everything on our team runs smoothly . From managing listings to marketing and closing, our team handles every process from start to finish!
Emily Ferguson Director of Operations
Cayman Nebraska
Chris Hart
Christian Callarik
Marketing Manager
Client Service Manager
Transaction Coordintor
Davis Eckelman
Amy Dutiel
Stephanie Wetzel
Office Administrator
Client Service Assistant
Operations Assistant
Unlicensed
Unlicensed
Ditche Esguerra Client Service Assistant
MADDY Rosenburg Marketing Intern
MACEY SCHOLTEN Marketing Intern
Unlicensed
Unlicensed
Unlicensed
Want to learn more about our team members? Read their profiles at TheRainesGroup.com
7
THERAINESGROUP.COM
We Believe in Results Our work is motivated by both excellent service and results for our clients. That’s why we’re truly proud of what we’ve accomplished:
$305 Million in sales 479Closed Transactions 100.05% List to Sale price ratio *2025 The Raines Group Statistics
Our Results
We have the statistics to prove our systems really work:
Across the region, The Raines Group is trusted for their results and their years of success helping clients sell their home . Here’s what you get when The Raines Group works for you:
• #1 Sales Team in the Central Ohio (sales volume), 2004-2018, 2020-2025 • Top 60 Large Team Nationally - Sales Volume Ranked By The Real Trends, 2020 and 2023
• Award-winning service in Central Ohio since 1998 • On average, our listings sell at over 99.8% of asking price in 13 days or less
Our team of dedicated professionals includes:
• We close between 350 – 450 real estate transactions each year
• 29 licensed REALTORS®
• 99% of our transactions make it successfully to the closing table
• 4 specialized support personnel
• Approximately 60% of our business comes from repeat business or referrals
• 5 licensed specialized support personnel • 3 licensed Brokers • 1 full-time virtual assistant
We work to ensure that our results become reflective of our client experiences. That’s because it’s truly our pleasure to help you purchase a home.
8
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Award-Winning Service We believe that our results are all about our clients . For over a decade, we have been recognized with local, regional, and national awards, and that has allowed us to provide even greater success and service for our clients . Our selection of awards, distinctions, and designations includes:
2024 •
#1 in Central Ohio
•
#1 Large Team in the State of Ohio
•
Top 60 Large Team Ranked Nationally
2023 •
#1 in Central Ohio
•
#1 Large Team in the State of Ohio
•
#22 Large Team Ranked Nationally
•
•
2021
• •
•
#1 in Central Ohio (sales volume)
•
•
#1 at HER, Realtors® (sales volume)
•
• • •
#1 in Central Ohio (sales volume) #1 at HER, Realtors® (sales volume) #50 ranked Nationally for by Real Trends (sales volume)
2019 •
#2 Agent nationally for closed volume and units at HER, Realtors®
•
#2 Agent in Central Ohio (volume)
•
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume and units at HER, Realtors®
•
#1 Agent in Central Ohio (volume) #171 Sales Team nationally (volume)
•
9
on the Wall Street Journal’s The Thousand List
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume & units at HER, Realtors® #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume) #62 Sales Team nationally (sales volume) on The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
2013 • • •
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume & units at HER, Realtors® #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume) #88 Sales Team nationally (sales volume) on The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
2012 • •
2018
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume & units at HER, Realtors® #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume) #94 Sales Team nationally (units) on The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
2014
•
2020
• • •
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume at HER, Realtors® #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume) #87 Sales Team nationally (sales volume) on The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
2015
2022 #1 in Central Ohio (sales volume)
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume & units at HER, Realtors® #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume) #94 Sales Team nationally (units) on The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
•
• •
2009
2016
•
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume at HER, Realtors® #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume) #67 Sales Team nationally (sales volume)
2008 • • •
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume at HER, Realtors® Ruby Award ($50,000,000 plus in sales) #1 Agent in Franklin County (volume)
2007 • • •
#1 Agent nationally at HER, Realtors® Ruby Award ($50,000,000 plus in sales) Grand Marketing Award from the BIA
2006 •
Personal Achievement Award from The Wall Street Journal and The Luxury Conclave
•
HER, REALTORS® #1 Agent nationally
•
Ruby Award ($50,000,000 plus in sales)
• •
Grand Marketing Award from the BIA #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume)
on The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
2011
2005
•
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume at HER, Realtors®
•
•
#1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume)
2017
2010
•
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume and units at HER, Realtors®
•
•
#1 Agent in Central Ohio (volume)
#1 Agent nationally for closed volume at HER, Realtors®
#94 Sales Team nationally (volume) on The Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
•
•
#1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume) #75 Sales Team nationally (sales volume)
•
Overall Excellence in Marketing Award from The Wall Street Journal & The
•
Luxury Conclave (North America) Grand Marketing Award from the BIA
• • •
#1 Agent nationally at HER, Realtors® Ruby Award ($50,000,000 plus in sales) #1 Agent in Ohio (sales volume)
on the Wall Street Journal’s Top 100 List
THERAINESGROUP.COM
We Appreciate Our Clients Our greatest joy comes from helping our clients . That is why we have pulled together a selection of complimentary resources to help them when it comes time to make their move . As our client, we make available the following:
• Moving Truck • Moving Van • Table & Chairs • A Power Washer • A Frozen Beverage Machine • Wireless Speakers
No matter what you need, chances are we can help with an inventory that is always growing to better serve our clients.
• Projector & Movie Screen
10
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Giving Back To Columbus We have always believed in giving back . As a community partner, we aim to make a positive contribution to where we live, work, and play . Causes, programs, and educational leaders we support include:
11
A Kid Again
Healthy New Albany
New Albany Symphony Orchestra
After School Allstars Alvis
Healthy New Albany Food Pantry Huckleberry House
New Albany Well Being Initiative New Albany Women’s Network
American Heart Association Amethyst
I Know I Can Jerseys of Hope
Operation Smile Overwatch Partnership
Angel Works Foundation And More! Books For Bedtime
Jimmie Heuga Foundation Junior Achievement Junior League
Pilot Dogs Project Redeem Race for a Cure
Breakthrough T1D Buddy Up For Life CHA Animal Shelter Children’s Hospital Circle of Friends Coalition Against Family Violence Columbus Academy Columbus Diaper Bank Columbus Dog Connection Columbus Jewish Day School Columbus School for Girls Columbus Speech & Hearing Center Community Kitchen Crawford Crew DSACO Drug Safe Worthington Form 5 Prosthetics Furniture Bank of Central Ohio Girls On The Run Gracehaven Habitat for Humanity
Lettuce Work Licking County Humane Society Lifetown Love w/o Hurt Make It Fit Foundation Make Kindness Contagious Mental Health America of Franklin County Miracle League Nationwide Children’s Hospital NC4K Neighbor to Neighbor New Albany Chamber New Albany Classic New Albany Firefighters Foundation New Albany Food Pantry New Albany High School & Middle School Band New Albany Historical Society New Albany Library New Albany Performing Arts Center New Albany PTO
Red Cross Respire Haiti Ronald McDonald House Salvation Army Special Olympics TedX New Albany The Childhood League Center The Driven Foundation The Garden For All United Way Westerville Youth Connection DBA The Launch Pad Wexner Center World Vision And More!
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Our Client Results We want you to feel comfortable choosing a team not based on what we can do for you, but how we’ve helped others do the same . Here is just some of what our past clients had to say about The Raines Group:
“We are your biggest fans. You did what other agents couldn’t do: sell our home.” – Stephanie and Art Fitzpatrick
“Your team is, without a doubt, the most proactive team of real estate agents that we have dealt with.” – Jay and Robin Canowitz
“Out of all the real estate agents that I’ve worked with, you, by far gave me the best value for my money.” – Todd Alexander
“Your ‘can-do’ attitude, upbeat personality and attention to detail made the whole process a real joy.” – Roger McCoy
12
“The efficiency, commitment, and competency of the entire Raines Group was outstanding. At no point in the process did we ever wonder what step was next or what was needed from us. They were proactive in guiding us through the whole process.” – Dawn and Chris Hinckley
We could not have been more pleased with The Raines Group. What set them apart was their commitment to our goals, enthusiasm, positivity, and communication. We were thoroughly satisfied and will absolutely recommend The Raines Group in the future.” – David and Deanna McClure
Read more of our testimonials at: TheRainesGroup.com/Why-Us
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Five Factors To Sell Your Home The speed of your sale will dependent on five key factors. We’ve outlined them below, so that you can know what to expect – and how we can help:
1. Price
4. Timing
The single most important factor to consider is the price tag: How much your home is worth. Setting the right price can ensure that your home attracts buyers, doesn’t lag on the market, and gets you the highest possible return. Remember, though, that overpricing can delay or even prevent a successful sale.
Sometimes it’s a buyer’s market, and sometimes it’s a seller’s market. The market conditions when you’re ready to sell can make a big difference in how quickly the process goes. We always stress the importance of timing your sale correctly.
2. Location and Condition Location, location, location . The location of your home can’t change, but you do have full control over its condition. In fact, a professional stager can help you sell your home faster by making it more appealing to buyers. Ultimately, we know that homes sell faster when they are in pristine condition.
3. Competition Buyers decide which homes to buy and how much they are worth through the time-honored method of comparison shopping . The pool of available homes is constantly changing . If there are homes like yours on the market, it’s crucial that your home rises to the top in how it looks and how it is marketed.
13
5. Marketing Strategies A comprehensive marketing campaign gives your home maximum exposure, which is essential for a timely sale. But if the five factors mentioned above are out of balance, even the greatest campaign will fail.
We focus on providing in-depth information to ensure your home is priced right, in optimal condition, better than the competition, and prepared to be marketed and to remain in line with the current market.
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Comprehensive Marketing For Your Home We combine our large network, traditional advertising, and cutting-edge digital marketing to give your home maximum exposure . Today’s buyers demand 24/7, 365 access to information in the convenience of their own homes . That’s why we developed the most innovative, comprehensive marketing plan in the business, combining traditional and digital marketing, to drive these “connected consumers” to your listing, regardless of where they’re searching for a home! By using this customized approach, we’re better able to find the buyer who will pay the most for your home.
THERAINESGROUP.COM
YOUR LISTING + HUNDREDS OF OTHER WEBSITES!
COLUMBUSOHIOHOMESEARCH.COM
14
THERAINESGROUP.COM
The Importance of Effective Pricing While it may be tempting to price high at the outset to try and beat the market, the best strategy is to price your home correctly from the start . Here are some important reasons why:
Buyers are always waiting for something new to be listed. The most activity — and the highest and best offers — typically come in the first 21 days a home is on the market . Same if you overprice your home and then reduce the price, you lose precious time as well as the excitement that a new listing generates.
A house takes on a reputation surprisingly fast. Even after you lower the price, prospective buyers may be wary, wondering why your home has been on the market for so long . You have lost a strong negotiating position and, in the end, may even have to settle for less than market value . That’s why it is so important to make the most of your entry into the market.
The higher your price, the fewer qualified prospects you’ll have.
Buyers compare houses. They are looking for the home with the most amenities at the best price.
15
But instead of making an offer on your home, these buyers are out viewing others that they perceive to fall within their price range . By overpricing, you are helping to sell other, more competitively-priced homes. You are highlighting their value at your own expense.
A disparity between your asking price and your home’s appraisal value can quickly become a deal-breaker.
We must be able to defend your price to the appraiser, and the lender must be able to justify it to the market. If your home’s appraisal value is lower than your asking price, your buyer could back out at the last minute.
Interested in a more nuanced pricing strategy? All you have to do is ask one of our specialists for their help.
THERAINESGROUP.COM
A Buyer’s Perspective On Home Values The current market value of your home is determined by the selling prices of similar homes in your area . Factors that do not affect the value of your home include:
The price you paid for the house.
The majority of houses sell for market value, which is constantly changing and may not support your original purchase price at the time you choose to sell .
Your need for money.
The current value of your home is dictated by the market, not by your need or desire to turn a profit.
Your desire to recoup the cost of maintenance-related repairs.
The purpose of maintenance is to preserve a home’s value, not to create value . The cost of maintenance cannot be added to the market price of your home.
16
Your desire to recoup the cost of home improvements.
Make improvements for your own enjoyment, not with the hope of passing their full cost along to future buyers .
How much it would cost to build your home today.
The bottom line is, you cannot sell your home for more than buyers are willing to pay.
How attached you are to your home.
Any attachment you feel will not be shared by the buyer . Sentimental value does not correlate with a higher selling price.
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Is Your Home Priced Correctly?
2. The “It’s Okay...But I Think I’ll Keep Looking” Level
At The Raines Group, we will do everything we can to sell your home quickly, at the best price, and with no hassles.
Either 10 to 12 showings and no offers or just a few showings. Potential buyers believe they can still get more house for their money, and they are willing to continue looking.
The one thing we can’t control or change is the market.
3. The “This Is It!” Level
Even though we know how valuable your home is, its value from a selling standpoint will be determined solely by the market.
Showings, second showings, and offers in the first four to six weeks. Congratulations! You have placed your house on the market at the right price. Your price even supports their belief that your house might be their next home. They are now ready to buy .
To help you decide whether your home is priced correctly, The Raines Group has generated the following “levels of seriousness .”
1. The “Maybe This Seller Isn’t Serious” Level No showings and no offers. Agents and potential buyers are not even interested in seeing your home. They believe they can get more for their money elsewhere.
17
Keep in mind that, even if your home is priced correctly today, that may change with the market. As we list your home, we will keep you informed on the market, how it’s changing, and what we can do to strategize to get an effective result for you.
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Getting Your Home Ready To Sell As a seller, how can you to prepare your home to sell it? We’ve prepared some helpful tips and steps to get your home in shape to sell.
Start Outside
Stand across the street and take a look at your home from a buyer’s perspective: • • •
Always keep your lawn mowed, raked, fertilized, and watered. Re-seed any spots that need it. Remove all refuse, leaves, and clutter from yards, sidewalks, porches, and decks.
•
Give trim, decks, gates, and the
•
front door a fresh coat of paint. Invest in a new doormat.
Clean Your House
A filthy bathroom is the worst, second only to a dirty kitchen. •
Re-caulk tile in the bathrooms if the caulking is not sparkling white.
•
Remove posters and adhesive from walls and doors.
•
Putty all nail holes and any other holes in the walls. Depersonalize your rooms and decorate them in a neutral manner.
•
•
Clean or paint the basement walls and floor.
Let The Sun Shine
Wash your windows inside and out, because dirty windows keep out light .
18
•
Open the shades.
•
If your rooms have dark colors, you will want to consider painting them.
•
Install high-wattage bulbs in areas where needed.
De-clutter Your Home
Clutter makes your house look small and unloved. • • •
•
Put away all kitchen counter items. Remove cars from driveway or in front of the home. Pack away framed family photographs, figurines, vases, and other excessive decorative items. Remove all extra blankets and pillows from sofas, chairs, and tables.
•
Put away all pens, paper, medicine bottles, mail, and magazines from countertops and office area.
•
Minimize the number of toys left out by your children, inside and outside of the home.
•
Relocated high chairs or children’s plastic/wood chairs to an area such as the laundry room or garage during showings. Remove dog/cat toys, as well as
•
Fix It
Buyers feel that a house is not well cared for if there are items throughout the home that need to be repaired. •
Make sure all your doors work properly. Repair or replace them if necessary.
•
Remove extraneous extension cords and exposed wires.
•
Clean, repair, and paint al gutters and downspouts.
•
Make sure the garage door opens easily.
•
Fix dripping faucets as they may lead buyers to question the plumbing system.
Most Importantly •
Do a pre-inspection of your home.
•
Do a pre-appraisal of your home.
•
Hire a professional stager.
•
Don’t be afraid to accept the first offer; it is most often your best offer.
•
Obtain a floor plan of your home if possible.
•
Assemble house records for the buyer’s review.
•
Consider only written offers from lender pre-qualified buyers.
food and water dishes. •
Put away all shopping bags, season-specific décor, and laundry.
•
Organize your closets: Remove unnecessary items and put them in storage. Closets highlight the storage space that your home has to offer.
Take a Whiff
If your house has an odor, that’s a huge turnoff. Make it smell nice. You might even need an air filter.
Keep Pets At Bay
A barking dog is unwelcoming. Plus, people might be allergic to your pets.
Lastly, and most importantly, trust a team of real estate experts to market your home to help generate the most interest from buyers who want to see it and make it their own.
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Photography Appointment Checklist Once your home is ready, you’ll be contacted by our marketing department to schedule an appointment to take photos of your home. Staging your home is the first step in creating professional and inviting marketing materials that will attract buyers. We want your home to show all its beautiful details, so prior to your photo appointment, please go through this checklist to make sure your photos turn out the best!
Interior
⏹ Schedule an appointment with a staging professional if requested by your agent. ⏹ Pack away anything that can “clutter” a photo (framed family photographs, figurines, vases, etc.). ⏹ Clear all pens, paper, medicine bottles, mail, and magazines from countertops and desks. ⏹ Clear kitchen counters — remove items such as toasters, coffee pots, soap dispensers, and towels. ⏹ Remove magnets, calendars, and any other objects from your refrigerator. ⏹ Relocate high chairs, booster seats, etc. to a non-photographed area (laundry room, garage, closet) until after the photo shoot.
⏹ Relocate trash cans and wastebaskets to a non-photographed area until after the photo shoot. ⏹ Remove pet toys, as well as food and water dishes, until after the photo shoot. ⏹ Clean all bathrooms . Remove toiletries from countertops and shower stalls. Remove towels and/or robes from the back of doors. Lower toilet lids. Remove floor mats for a cleaner look.
⏹ Make all beds and minimize clutter in bedrooms . ⏹ Check to make sure that all light fixtures are functional. Replace bulbs where needed. ⏹ Remove or minimize season-specific decor. ⏹ Minimize the number of toys left out by children . Exterior
⏹ Remove cars from driveway or in front of the home for exterior shots. ⏹ Close all garage doors. ⏹ Sweep walkways, clean up after pets, and clear lawn of hoses, toys, and other objects. ⏹ Straighten outdoor living areas (deck, patio, porch, etc .) and arrange patio furniture in an inviting manner.
⏹ Mow and trim the lawn, hedges, and trees of any overgrowth. ⏹ Remove trash bins from view. 19
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Your To-Do List An integral part of our sales and marketing system is you! The information you provide about your home allows us to market your home more effectively and get it sold in a hurry! The following is a list of items that you must provide to your agent as well as forms (included in this section) for you to complete and return at your initial meeting .
What You Need For Your Initial Meeting:
⏹ Two copies of house key(s) — check to be sure they work! ⏹ Floor plans, if available ⏹ Copy of title insurance policy, if purchased within the last 10 years ⏹ Homeowner Association info including amount and purpose of fees, covenants, and restrictions ⏹ The latest appraisal of your home (to confirm correct square footage) ⏹ A survey of your property, if available ⏹ Alarm instructions, if applicable ⏹ Mortgage account number and customer service number Forms That May Be Completed And Returned To Your Agent*:
⏹ Utility Providers and Chart (2 Pages) ⏹ Room Measurements Home ⏹ Improvements My Top Ten List ⏹ Words From The Seller * These forms can be found on the following seven pages .
20
THERAINESGROUP.COM
What Items Are Included? You can help avoid misunderstandings and possible disputes by being very specific, in writing, about what is included in the sale and what is not . Being clear about what items stay with the property and what items are not included in the sale of the home will position you for a smoother transfer of ownership .
Property Address: Item (please make notes or specify locations on line next to item)
Included
Excluded
N/A
Refrigerator Dishwasher Trash Compactor Stove (range) Microwave Washer/Dryer Dining Room Chandelier Other Light Fixtures (specify) Bathroom Mirrors Powder Room Mirrors Other Mirrors (indicate location) Drapes (indicate location) Play Structures Gas Logs Fireplace Screens/Equipment Air Conditioner(s) Central Vacuum/Attachments Invisible Fence & Components Satellite TV Components Other (please specify) # of Garage Door Openers # of House Keys
21
Seller’s Name
Date:
Seller’s Name
Date:
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Your Most-Loved List What do you love most about your home? Our most compelling marketing ideas usually come from directly from the sellers . After all, nobody knows your home better than you do! Ask yourself: “If I were a buyer, what features of this property would I find most attractive?”
Property Address: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
22
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Seller’s Name:
Agent Name:
Buyer’s Name:
Agent Email/Phone:
Property Address: Please make arrangements with the Utility Companies for your new home:
Gas Companies
Monthly Average:
Columbia Gas of Ohio
800-344-4077
www.columblagasohio.com
Energy Cooperative
800-255-6815
www.ohloenergvcoop_org
Suburban Natural Gas
740-548-2450
www.snaco.com
Electric Companies
Monthly Average: www.aepohio.com
American Electric Power
800-277-2177
Energy Cooperative
800-255-6815
www.ohloenergycoop_org
Pioneer Energy
614-442-7100
www.pioneerem.com
City of Westerville
614-901-6430
www_westervil le_org
Fairfield County Utilities
740-652-7120
www.co.falrfield.oh.us
First Energy
800-633-4766
www.firstenergvcorp.com
Nationwide Energy Partners
877-818-2637
www.nationwIdeenergypartners.com
South Central Power
740-653-4422
www.southcentralpowercom
Water and Sewer Companies
Monthly Average:
City of Bexley
614-235-8694
www .bexley .org
City of Columbus
614-645-8270
www .columbus .gov
City of Dublin
614-410-4750
www .dublInohlousa .gov
City of Gahanna
614-342-4440
www .gahanria .gov
City of Westerville
614-901-6770
www .westerville .org
Del-Co
740-548-7746
www .delcowater .com
Guardian Water
877-291-3141
www .guardianwp .com
Nationwide Energy Partners
877-818-2637
www .nationwIdeenergypartners .com
Jefferson Township
614-864-0740
www .jeffersonwatersewerdistrict .com
Pioneer Energy
614-442-7100
www .ploneerem .com
Spectrum Water
614-777-1199
www .spectrumutilities .com
Village of Granville
740-587-0707
www .granville .oh .us
Links to local school districts: Big Walnut • www.bigmalnut.k12.oh.us Buckeye Valley • www.buckeyevalley.k12.oh.us Canal Winchester • www.cwschools.org Columbus City • www.columbus.k12.oh.us Delaware • www.dcs.k12.oh.us Dublin • www.dublinschools.net Gahanna • www.gahanna.k12.oh.us Grandview • www.grandviewschools.org Granville • www.granvilleschools.org Hilliard • www.hilliard.k12.oh.us Marysville • www.maryville.k12.oh.us New Albany • www.new-albany.k12.oh.us Olentangy • www.olentangy .k12 .oh .us Pickerington • www.pickerington.k12.oh.us Reynoldsburg
Trash/Refuse Companies
Monthly Average:
Ballantrae Association
614-781-0055
www.ballantraedublinoh.com
Big 0 Refuse
888-924-2446
www.blgorefuse.com
City of Columbus
614-645-3111
www.columbus.gov
City of Bexley
614-235-8694
www.bexley.org
City of Dublin
614-410-4750
www.dublinohlousa.gov
City of Gahanna
614-342-4440
www.gahanna.gov
City of Upper Arlington
614-583-5370
www.uaoh.net
City of Westerville
614-901-6770
www.westerville.org
Rumpke
800-828-8171
wwwsurnpke.com
Towne Properties
614-781-0055
www.towneprooerties.com
Village of Granville
740-587-0707
www.granvilletownship.org
Waste Management
800-963-4776
www.wm.com
Other: Other:
• www.reyn.org Southwestern • www.swcs.k12.oh.us Upper Arlington • www.uaschools.org Westerville • www.westerville.k12.oh.us Worthington • www.worthington.k12.oh.us
HOA/Condo Assoc ./or Not Applicable
HOA/Condo Assoc ./or Not Applicable
HOA/Condo Assoc . DUES cover . . . .(list above)
Other:
23
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Home Improvements What updates have you made since buying your home? This is a question frequently asked by buyers and your opportunity to boast about all the wonderful things you have done to make your home truly unique .
Property Address: Date
Description
Cost ($)
*All information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed
24
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Words From The Seller Are there certain things you wish you could tell a buyer about your home, community, or street? This is your opportunity to write a letter for potential buyers to read when they visit your home .
25
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Sellers’ Condominium / HOA Document Checklist
Seller is advised to obtain the following information and documents at time of listing. Per Paragraph 6.5 of the Residential Purchase Contract, Seller is required to deliver this information and these documents to Buyer immediately after contract acceptance.
1. Name of Owner’s Association: _______________________________________________ Contact Name: _________________________________ Phone:______________________ E-mail: _______________________________________ 2. Condominium/HOA Board / Management Company Contact: Officer Name:___________________________________ Phone: ____________________ E-mail: ___________________________________ 3. Contact information for any other mandatory membership association, if applicable; 4. Condominium Declaration and/or Deed Restrictions, and Bylaws of the owners’ association (condominium or homeowners’), including all amendments to the Declarations or Deed Restrictions except amendments that only increase the number of units or homes subject to the Declaration or Deed Restrictions;* 5. A statement from the association regarding this home/unit, confirming when the next (assessment) payment is due, the amount of such payment, the amount of any pending special assessments(s), and that the account is current;* 6. Association Initiation Fee, Reserve Contribution, and Association Transfer Fee; 7. Minutes from the last 3 meetings of the directors or trustees of the owners’ association;* 8. Minutes from the last meeting of members of the owners’ association; 9. Most recent version of unrecorded Rules and Regulations, including Amendments to the Declaration, specifically, those affecting this unit or affecting changes in the common or limited common areas .* 10 . Current Financial Statement showing the nature of the association’s assets,* including: A) Most current balance sheets, income and expense statements, and budget; and B) Copy of the most recent reserve study . * Denotes documents that a Condominium Association or Homeowners’ Association must provide to a unit owner or homeowner upon request . Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 5311 .091, and 5312 .07, Seller, as property owner, has the right to copies of documents to be provided at the reasonable cost of making copies . © 2022 Columbus REALTORS® – 01/04/2022
26
THERAINESGROUP.COM
Interested In Working With Us? At The Raines Group, we have built a sterling reputation based on service, guidance, and success. If you’re thinking of selling, we want to be there for you every step of the way. Reach out today to access our help.
614.924.9000 · Info@TheRainesGroup.com TheRainesGroup.com