1. The closing date. See if the date the buyer wants to take title is reasonable for you.


2. Date of possession. See if the date the buyer wants to move in is reasonable for you.


3. The earnest money. Look for the largest earnest money deposit possible; since it is forfeited if the buyer backs out, a large deposit is usually a good indication of a sincere buyer.


4. Fixtures and personal property. Check the list of items that the buyer expects to remain with the property and be sure it’s acceptable.


5. Repairs. Determine what the requested repairs will cost and whether you’re willing to do the work or would rather lower the price by that amount.


6. Contingencies. See what other factors the buyer wants met before the contract is final—inspections, selling a home, obtaining a mortgage, review of the contract by an attorney. Set time limits on contingencies so that they won’t drag on and keep your sale from becoming final.


7. The contract expiration date. See how long you have to make a decision on the offer.

1. Get estimates from a reliable repairperson on items that need to be replaced soon, a roof or worn carpeting, for example. In this way, buyers will have a better sense of how much these needed repairs will affect their costs.


2. Have a termite inspection to prove to buyers that the property is not infested.


3. Get a pre-sale home inspection so you’ll be able to make repairs before buyers become concerned and cancel a contract.


4. Gather together warranties and guarantees on the furnace, appliances, and other items that will remain with the house.


5. Fill out a disclosure form provided by your sales associate. Take the time to be sure that you don’t forget problems, however minor, that might create liability for you after the sale.