Selling real estate—in New Brunswick that’s most often a home—is a big transaction. Whether you’re working with a real estate agent or handling the sale yourself, it helps to know what to expect and how to prepare.
Most people in New Brunswick sell their home with help from a licensed real estate agent. Agents handle the paperwork, marketing, negotiations, and legal details. They may also help you sell faster or get a better price.
Some sellers choose to go it alone to save on commission fees, which are typically 5 per cent of the sale price. If you have the time, knowledge, and comfort level to manage the process yourself, a private sale might be worth considering.
Before you list your home, take a look at what’s happening in your local market.
In a buyers’ market, there are lots of homes for sale and fewer buyers—so prices may be lower.
In a sellers’ market, there are fewer homes and more buyers—so prices may be higher.
Market conditions, your financial goals, and how quickly you need to sell should all factor into your decision.
If you still have a mortgage, take a close look at your mortgage agreement. Some lenders charge a fee if you pay off your mortgage early—this is called a prepayment penalty. Others may offer options to transfer your mortgage to a new property or “port” it, which could save you money if you’re buying another home. Talk to your lender to understand what applies to you and what steps you’ll need to take before the sale goes through.
Once your finances are sorted, it’s time to get your home ready for buyers. First impressions matter, and a well-presented home can help you sell faster—and possibly for more.
Clean and declutter: Tidy up every room, clear off counters, and pack away personal items. You want buyers to picture themselves living there.
Boost curb appeal: Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and sweep walkways. A neat exterior sets the tone before anyone walks through the door.
Make smart upgrades: You don’t need a full renovation, but small fixes—like fresh paint, updated light fixtures, or new cabinet handles—can make a big difference. If you’re working with an agent, ask what improvements are most likely to add value in your area.
If you’re selling privately, consider hiring a home stager or asking a friend for a second opinion. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes can help you spot things you’ve overlooked.
Even if you have a number in mind, it’s smart to research what similar homes in your area have sold for. Location, condition, and market trends all affect value.
A real estate agent can help you set a price that’s competitive and realistic, one that attracts buyers while maximizing your return.
If you’re working with an agent, they’ll handle the listing and marketing. This might include:
Posting your home on MLS® Systems
Advertising online and in-print
Putting up “For Sale” signs
Hosting open houses
Showing your home to potential buyers
If you’re selling privately, you’ll need to take care of these steps yourself or hire a private listing service.
When a buyer is interested, they’ll submit an offer. It will include:
The price they’re willing to pay
What they would like included with the house (like appliances, which are included unless the offer specifically excludes them)
Any conditions (such as financing or inspections)
An expiration date
You can accept the offer, reject it, or make a counteroffer. You may choose to provide a counteroffer if you want to propose changes such as a new price, different items included with the home, or a different closing date. The buyer then has the same choice to make—accept, reject or counter your offer. This process continues until you come to an agreement, which then leads to the offer becomes legally binding.
Once you accept an offer, the buyer usually pays a deposit. This amount is agreed on in the offer and is held in trust—typically by your real estate agent—until the sale officially closes. When everything is finalized, the deposit goes toward the purchase price of the home.
It’s important to understand the conditions in the offer, especially what happens to the deposit if the sale doesn’t go ahead. In some cases, the buyer may get the deposit back. In others, you may be entitled to keep it. If you’re unsure, ask your agent or lawyer to walk you through the details before you accept the offer.
Your agent will work with the buyer’s agent and both parties’ lawyers to finalize the sale. The buyer may do a final walk-through before closing to confirm everything is in order.
Once the paperwork is complete and the financing is in place, the buyer gets the keys—and you’ve officially sold your home.