“We had some initial concerns as we needed to sell our home while living out of state. We’d been in communication with Michelle for a couple years until market conditions were…”
C. L.Seller living out of state · via Google
Selling a home
Good moves start with good advice.
From the first conversation to the final closing, thoughtful preparation, smart pricing and experienced guidance make all the difference.
Selling with Michelle
Ready before the first showing
Much of a sale’s success is decided before the sign goes in the yard. I’ll walk through your home with you and tell you honestly what buyers will notice, what’s worth fixing and what to leave alone. With my construction, renovation and staging background, that advice comes from experience.
Then we’ll price it carefully, present it well and put it in front of the right buyers with Compass marketing.
- A walk-through and a prep plan
- Pricing based on recent nearby sales
- Staging, professional photos and Compass marketing
- Firm, steady negotiating
What’s included
Everything a good sale needs
Preparation
A clear list of repairs and updates, ranked by what they’re likely to return, plus people I trust to do the work.
Pricing
We’ll look at what homes like yours are selling for, what’s happening in the market, and what makes your home special so we can price it right from the start.
Staging
Certified stager advice on furniture, light and flow, whether your home is full, half-packed or empty.
Marketing
Professional photos, a listing that tells your home’s story, and Compass’s reach to buyers and their agents.
Negotiation
I’ll go through every offer with you, explain the terms and push for the best price and conditions.
Closing
From inspection requests to the final walk-through, I keep things on track so closing day is calm.
How it works
From walk-through to sold
- 01
Walk-through
We tour your home together and talk about your goals, timing and next move.
- 02
Prep plan
You get a ranked list of repairs and updates, and the names of people who can help.
- 03
Staging and photos
We stage the rooms that matter most and schedule professional photos.
- 04
On the market
Your home goes live with Compass marketing, and I handle showings and feedback.
- 05
Offers and closing
I negotiate on your behalf and keep everything moving until the keys change hands.
Buying and selling at once
One move, two sides
Most of my sellers are buying their next home at the same time. I’ll help you plan the order, line up the timing and keep both sides moving, so you aren’t rushed into a decision or carrying two homes for long.
Moving later in life, or helping a parent sell? See Downsizing & Senior Moves.
Client reviews
In my clients’ words
“Michelle worked with us for over a year, getting our house ready for sale in May of 2019. She was responsive in communications, prepared for all of our meetings and meticulous in…”
Charlotte and ShaneSeller · via Compass
“Michelle was amazing! We are so grateful we found her. She was with us every step of the way. Not only did she sell our house for over asking price but she helped us with so many…”
Burke homeownerSeller · via Zillow
“Michelle was our agent for both the rental and sale of our condo in Springfield. Her deep knowledge of the local market helped us so we only had it on the market for a brief…”
Natasha P.Landlord and seller · via Compass
“Working with Michelle Gordon from Compass Real Estate was an outstanding experience from start to finish.”
Lisa D.Seller · via Google
“Michelle Gordon is the consummate full time real estate professional. I have been a licensed Realtor in Colorado for 27 years and Michelle listed and sold my brother’s home in…”
Roger H.Seller’s brother · via Zillow
“Michelle sold my house in Dec 2020. She was awesome, two thumbs up without a doubt. Very knowledgeable about making the house look good without breaking the bank.”
Jenny F.Seller · via Google
“Michelle was fantastic throughout the entire process. Extremely personable and low-pressure, which was well-suited to my particular situation.”
Marc S.Seller · via Zillow
“Michelle is an excellent agent! She listed my place in March and we were under contract in less than 2 days, at $75K over asking price!”
Kevin W.Seller · via Google
“My husband and I cannot recommend Michelle highly enough. She is a true professional and extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of real estate transactions.”
AshleyBuyer and seller · via Compass
“We have been working with Michelle for 7 years! In fact we were one of her first clients. Through the years Michelle has assisted us with renting a home, buying our first home…”
Christina B.Renter, buyer and seller · via Google
“I researched real estate professionals online and found Michelle. She created a marketing plan to sell my townhouse and reviewed this plan with me.”
Springfield homeownerTownhouse seller · via Zillow
“I can’t say enough about Michelle Gordon. She is outstanding and is on top of her game! She helped me buy and sell my condo.”
Andrea L.Condo buyer and seller · via Google
“My husband and I recently sold our home with Michelle. We had considered selling it ourselves, and are extremely glad we reconsidered.”
Jen W.Seller · via Google
“Michelle Gordon and Janice Buckley have been exceptionally attentive through the whole process. Helped us with organizing and transporting to Quinn’s.”
Christopher F.Seller, after moving away · via Google
Questions
Seller Questions
What should I fix before I sell?
Usually the things an inspector would flag, like leaks, worn caulk or broken windows, plus inexpensive updates that buyers notice, like fresh paint and lighting. Big remodels rarely pay for themselves right before a sale. I’ll walk through your home and give you a ranked list.
How do you decide on a list price?
I look at recent sales of similar homes nearby, what’s for sale now, and how quickly homes are selling. Then I adjust for your home’s condition, updates and location. Pricing well from day one usually brings the strongest offers.
Do I have to stage my home?
No, but it helps. As a certified stager I can often make a big difference with the furniture you already have, plus a few changes to light and layout. For empty homes, a few well-chosen pieces help buyers understand each room.
What is Compass Concierge?
Compass Concierge can cover the upfront cost of services like painting, flooring, repairs and staging. You repay it when your home sells. It’s a good option when a few updates would make a real difference but you’d rather not pay for them before closing.
How long does it take to sell a home here?
Well-prepared, well-priced homes in Northern Virginia often go under contract within a few weeks, and closing usually follows 30 to 45 days later. Timing depends on the season, the price range and the neighborhood, and I’ll give you a realistic picture for your home.
Let’s talk
Thinking about selling?
Even if it’s a year or two away, a walk-through now can save you money later. Or call or text me at 703-489-1627.