Before You List: Build a Home Information Folder

Illustration of a prepared living room

Preparing to sell is easier when the information about your home is gathered in one place. A home information folder can save repeated searches through email and make conversations with your agent more productive.

Collect records you already have

Start with receipts for completed repairs, maintenance invoices, equipment manuals, and available warranties. Add dates and the name of the company that performed the work. If a record is missing, label it as missing rather than guessing about an installation date or the scope of a past repair.

Create a simple equipment list

Write down the equipment that will remain with the property and where its manuals can be found. Include model information when it is accessible without removing covers or entering unsafe areas. Keep account numbers, passwords, and access codes in a separate private file.

Separate completed work from plans

A quote, a scheduled appointment, and a paid invoice describe different things. Keep them in separate sections so unfinished projects do not look like completed repairs. Ask contractors for a clear description of the work they performed and keep supporting photographs when available.

Ask about transferable benefits

Some service arrangements or warranties may have conditions for transfer. Review the actual documents and contact the provider rather than assuming coverage moves with the property. Let your agent know what you have found so the information can be presented accurately.

Use the folder to prepare for your listing conversation

Bring a short list of updates, unresolved concerns, and questions to your meeting. Your agent can help identify what belongs in marketing and which questions should go to another professional. The folder supports that discussion; it does not replace required disclosures or professional advice.

Keep a clean handoff copy

Before sharing documents, remove personal financial details and unrelated information. Keep originals for your own records. A useful handoff packet contains the relevant manuals, verified service records, and clear notes about where everyday home controls are located.

Talk with Margie Desmond about a selling plan that fits your property and timeline.

Illustration created with AI; not a property listing or actual market data.

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