Your Agent Needs to Know These 10 Things (Before You List)

If you’re about to put your home on the market, get your agent everything they need before the sign goes up. The right details upfront prevent MLS mistakes, renegotiations, and blown escrows. Use this as your pre-listing checklist (and hand your agent the completed version).

1) HOA Details (all of them)

• What to provide: HOA name(s), management company, contact phone/email, payment schedule (monthly/quarterly/annual), current dues, any special assessments and end dates.

• Why it matters: Buyer loan approvals can fail if dues are higher than shown in MLS.

2) Utilities + Average Monthly Costs

• What to provide: Average water, gas, electric, trash and the providers for each.

• Why it matters: Buyers budget by total monthly payment, not just PITI.

3) Home Insurance + Claims History

• What to provide: Carrier, agent contact, policy notes, and any past claims (with scope of repair).

• Why it matters: In some areas, carriers pause binding during active wildfires; escrows can’t close until binding resumes. Set expectations early.

4) Death on the Property (disclose)

• What to provide: If a death occurred, when and general nature (peaceful vs. not).

• Why it matters: Required disclosure in many states and always smart to over-disclose.

5) Pool + Equipment Facts

• What to provide: Depth, age of equipment, dates of motor/seal replacements, leak history, warranties, service provider.

• Why it matters: These questions come up every time—have answers ready.

6) What Conveys vs. What You’re Taking

• What to decide: Washer/dryer, refrigerators (kitchen + garage), window treatments, mirrors, light fixtures, mounted TVs & brackets, smart devices, indoor/outdoor potted plants.

• Rule of thumb: If buyers will want it, either leave it or remove it before showings to avoid disputes.

• Legal note: MLS remarks aren’t binding. Put every inclusion/exclusion in the purchase contract.

7) Leased Items (start now)

• What to gather: Solar lease or PPA docs, water softener/RO leases, security systems, propane tank leases, etc. Include account numbers, payoff/transfer steps, and timelines.

• Why it matters: Solar transfers can delay closing if you don’t start the process early; buyers often must qualify.

8) Plumbing + Pipe History

• What to provide: Any leaks (dates/locations), pinhole issues, slab leak history, re-pipe or epoxy lining documentation, warranties and whether transferable.

• Why it matters: Multiple leaks = buyer anxiety; upfront disclosure keeps negotiations rational.

9) Distinguishing Features & “Why We Love It Here”

• What to share: Micro-benefits only you know—sun patterns, storage hacks, neighbor perks, trail access, utility efficiencies, school walkability, hidden upgrades.

• Why it matters: Your agent can’t sell what they don’t know. This copy becomes the tour script and listing highlights.

10) Licensed Seller? Say So.

• What to provide: If you (or a member of title) hold a real estate license, disclose it.

• Why it matters: It’s a required disclosure in many states.

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1) Disclosures: Complete Them Before You List

• Action: Ask your agent for the seller disclosure packet now and take the time to do it well.

• Why it matters: When you’re under contract, you’ll be juggling inspections, movers, and decisions. Rushed disclosures = missed details.

12) Document Current Condition (photos + video)

• Action: Before the first showing, walk the home with your phone and record rooms, fixtures, included items, and notable condition.

• Why it matters: It’s your baseline for final walkthroughs and protects everyone if questions arise.

Bonus: MLS ≠ Contract

Anything you intend to include or exclude must be written into the purchase agreement. MLS fields and remarks are not legally binding.

Make It Easy (and Error-Proof)

• Fill out the Seller Intake Worksheet (download) and give it to your agent.

• Attach: utility averages, insurance/claims, pool facts, lease docs, plumbing history, your “features we love” list, and your inclusion/exclusion decisions.

With this done, your listing hits the market clean, accurate, and negotiation-ready.