FAQs and Support

1. Help
->
2. Real Estate
->
3. What is the Process of buying and selling a home?

What should I expect when buying or selling a home?

Whether you're buying or selling a home in the Illinois side of the St. Louis metro, the process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. George Sykes, Managing Broker with Worth Clark Realty, guides you through every step with clear communication.

The Buying Process

Here’s what to expect when purchasing a home: (FYI, From Signed Contract to Closing is normally between 30 and 45 Days).

1. Initial discussion – We talk about your needs, budget, timeline, and priorities to make sure we’re on the same page.
2. Start looking – You’ll get full access to MLS listings, new construction updates, and off-market opportunities tailored to what you’re seeking.
3. Find the right home – We tour properties together (in person or virtually) until you find the one that feels like home.
4. Write an offer – We craft a strong, competitive offer based on market data and your goals.
5. Offer accepted – Congratulations! The contract is signed and we move into the due diligence phase.
6. Inspections – You schedule professional inspections (home, radon, sewer, etc.) to uncover any issues.
7. Loan processing – Your lender works on appraisal, underwriting, and final approval while we stay in close contact.
8. Inspection negotiations – If issues arise, we negotiate repairs, credits, or price adjustments with the seller.
9. Clear to close – Final conditions are satisfied, documents are prepared, and we’re ready for closing day.
10. Final closing – You sign the paperwork, funds are transferred, and you get the keys to your new home!

The Selling Process

Here’s the typical timeline when listing your home:

1. Decide to list – You reach out when you’re ready to sell, and we discuss timing, goals, and any concerns.
2. Do you need another home? – We talk about your next move and coordinate timing if you’re buying as well.
3. Comps & pricing – We review recent comparable sales to set a competitive, market-supported price.
4. Listing documents & disclosures – We prepare the listing agreement, required Illinois disclosures, and any additional paperwork.
5. Prepare the house – Guidance on decluttering, minor repairs, cleaning, and curb appeal improvements.
6. Staging decisions – Professional photos are taken; we discuss whether full staging, virtual staging, or simple touch-ups are best.
7. Go live – Your listing hits the MLS, CityPages front page, and major portals with maximum exposure.
8. Showings & offers – We coordinate showings and review incoming offers.
9. Offer accepted – Contract signed, buyer begins inspections and loan process.
10. Inspection responses – Buyer’s inspection report comes in; we review and decide on repairs or concessions.
11. Inspection repairs or concessions – Agreed-upon work is completed or credits issued.
12. Appraisal & final loan approval – Buyer’s lender orders appraisal and clears remaining conditions.
13. Utility shut-off & final prep – Coordinate transfer of utilities and final walkthrough.
14. Pack & move – You prepare for moving day (we can recommend local movers if needed).
15. Closing – Final signing, funds disbursed, and you hand over the keys.

Every transaction is unique, but I'll be with you every step of the way—answering questions, negotiating on your behalf, and making the process as smooth as possible.

Ready to get started? Give me a text or call: 618-531-4000 for a no-obligation conversation today.

"In a digital age of shares and likes,
you need a Realtor LIKE George Sykes"

George Sykes
Managing Broker, Worth Clark Realty
618-531-4000