In the Know

How I List Your Home, How to Prepare, and Why It Works

From pricing strategy and prep to marketing, negotiations, and the closing table—here’s exactly how I get your home sold with confidence.


Online Presence (Why It’s Crucial)

First Impressions Happen Online

Most buyers see your home first on a screen. Pro photos, compelling copy, and optimized placement create instant interest.

Wider Reach = More Buyers

MLS syndication plus targeted social reach gets your home in front of serious buyers quickly—and often shortens days on market.

Professional Media

Photography

Every listing gets pro photography—because day one matters most.

Drone

When helpful, drone showcases acreage, views, and neighborhood context.


“Professional camera equipment  NOT used by Nicole Kelley Real Estate for high-quality listing photos in Alabama.”
Aerial drone used for capturing stunning property photos and neighborhood overviews in Alabama.
“Modern staged kitchen and hallway interior showcasing home listing preparation in Anniston, Alabama.”


Front exterior of an Alabama home with strong curb appeal prepared for market.
Aerial view of Alabama lakefront neighborhood featured in real estate listings.

Virtual Staging & AI Tech

I use modern tools to help buyers visualize your rooms online—often the difference between a scroll-past and a showing request.

Beautifully staged living room highlighting bright design and inviting atmosphere for real estate photos.
Staged outdoor living space and pool area showcasing backyard appeal for homebuyers.
Charming Alabama home with red front door and lush landscaping for real estate marketing.

Nicole Kelley using virtual staging and AI tools to help buyers visualize home spaces online.
Virtually staged living and dining room showing how digital design helps sell homes faster in Anniston, Alabama.

Prep Checklist (Full List)

Whole-Home Basics

  • Deep clean top to bottom — kitchens, bathrooms, baseboards, windows
  • Declutter every room, including closets and storage areas
  • Remove excess furniture to make spaces feel larger
  • Touch up or repaint walls in neutral, inviting colors
  • Replace or clean carpets; shine hardwoods
  • Update outdated light fixtures, faucets, and hardware if needed
  • Make sure all bulbs are working and rooms are well-lit

Room-by-Room Details

  • Clear countertops in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Organize pantries, cabinets, and drawers (buyers will look!)
  • Remove personal photos and highly personalized décor
  • Stow pet toys, bowls, litter boxes, and eliminate odors
  • Make beds, fluff pillows, and use fresh linens
  • Add small touches: fresh flowers, neutral décor, cozy accents
  • Check that doors, windows, and locks work properly

Curb Appeal

  • Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and remove weeds
  • Pressure wash siding, driveway, and sidewalks
  • Touch up exterior paint or front door as needed
  • Add potted plants or seasonal flowers near the entry
  • Clean gutters and downspouts
  • Make sure house numbers and mailbox look fresh

Final Touches Before Showings

  • Open blinds and curtains for natural light
  • Keep trash bins empty and out of sight
  • Set a comfortable temperature in the home
  • Play soft background music if desired
  • Secure valuables, medications, and sensitive documents
  • Leave the home for showings to give buyers privacy

Strategic Marketing — Not “List & Pray”

A clear plan to keep your home in front of qualified buyers every day.

Daily Visibility

I refresh listing copy, rotate photos when helpful, and keep your property circulating where buyers actually are.

Targeted Ads

I can run Google and social ads targeted to likely buyers and local look-alike audiences to accelerate traffic and showings.

Broad Syndication

Your home is distributed to major buyer platforms through MLS syndication for maximum exposure and quick discovery.

Social Strategy

Short-form video, highlights, and re-shares keep momentum high and direct buyers back to the full listing.

Agent-to-Agent Reach

I personally notify top local agents when your home fits their buyers—proactive outreach, not just a post.

Real-Time Adjustments

We watch traffic, saves, and feedback in the first 7–10 days and adjust quickly if the market isn’t confirming the price.

What this means for you: more qualified eyes, faster feedback, and a strategy that adapts as data comes in.

Ready to Get Started?

Selling your home is a big decision — but you don’t have to do it alone. From the first conversation to the closing table, I’ll be your guide, advocate, and marketing powerhouse every step of the way.

Call Now

It’s Simple. It’s Nicole.

Text or call 256-452-7135 for real guidance — no pressure, just straight answers.

#INrealestate #LockedIN #INtheknow #itssimple #itsNicole #INtrusted

FAQs (Short & Honest)

Can we list above the suggested price?
We can—strategically. We’ll watch showing activity and feedback in the first 7–10 days and adjust quickly if the market isn’t confirming the price. Your goals lead; data guides the decision.
Which repairs or updates are worth doing before listing?
High-impact, low-cost items: deep clean, declutter, neutral paint touch-ups, lighting, landscaping, and obvious maintenance. If a big-ticket item is near the end of life, we’ll decide between repairing, crediting the buyer, or pricing accordingly.
Do I need to be out of the house for showings?
It’s best. Buyers speak more freely and stay longer when the seller isn’t present. We’ll schedule showings to minimize disruption and keep you informed of feedback.
What if we get multiple offers?
Great news. We’ll compare more than price: financing type, contingencies, repair limits, closing timeline, and risk. I’ll summarize the tradeoffs and recommend a path that aligns with your goals.
What happens after the buyer’s inspection?
Buyers usually request repairs or credits. We’ll focus on health/safety and major systems, not cosmetics. I’ll negotiate to keep the deal moving while protecting your bottom line.
What about the appraisal?
If the buyer is financing, the lender orders an appraisal to confirm value and check basic safety. If it comes in low or calls for repairs, we’ll review options: negotiate, adjust, or remedy items to stay on track.
How long does it take to close?
Typical financed deals close in ~30–45 days from acceptance; cash can be faster. Timeline depends on lender speed, appraisal, title work, and repairs. I’ll keep everyone aligned on deadlines.
What costs do sellers usually pay?
Common items include title-related fees, government recording/taxes (where applicable), potential concessions, and any agreed payoffs or liens. I’ll provide a net sheet early so you know your estimated bottom line.
When does the buyer get possession?
In most cases, the buyer takes possession at closing once funds are disbursed. If you need extra ti