Close-up of a California craftsman bungalow front porch in Rockridge with original wood columns and potted plants
For Sellers

Selling your home in Oakland or Berkeley

Selling a home takes a lot of decisions in a short window. My job is to help you make each one with clear information, and to handle the work so the process feels manageable. Here's how I approach it.

How the process works

  1. First walkthrough.

    We walk through the home together. I look at condition, layout, light, and what buyers in your neighborhood will notice first. You tell me your timing, your goals, and anything you already know about the house.

  2. Preparation plan.

    I recommend which updates are worth doing and which are not. That usually means some mix of paint, lighting, flooring, landscaping, and repairs. Every recommendation comes with the reason behind it, so you decide what fits your budget and timeline.

  3. Getting the work done.

    I coordinate the contractors and vendors and keep the work on schedule. You get regular updates without having to manage each trade yourself.

  4. Pricing.

    I build the pricing recommendation from recent sales of comparable homes and current activity in your area. I walk you through the comparables and the reasoning, so the final decision is yours and you understand it.

  5. Staging and photography.

    Staging and professional photography show buyers how the home lives. They also shape the first impression most buyers get online.

  6. Launch and marketing.

    We plan the listing launch, open houses, and marketing together, and I keep you updated on showings and feedback.

  7. Offers and escrow.

    I review every offer with you, explain the terms beyond price, and negotiate on your behalf. Once you're in escrow, I manage inspections, disclosures, and deadlines through closing.

Why preparation matters

Most buyers first see your home in listing photos. Presentation affects whether they schedule a showing and how they feel when they walk in. Thoughtful preparation puts money where buyers will notice it and skips projects that cost more than they return.

See how I approach listing preparation

Common seller questions

Earlier than most people expect. Starting a few months ahead gives you time to plan the work, schedule contractors, and avoid rushed decisions. If your timeline is shorter, we focus on the changes that matter most.
Not always. Some homes sell well as they are. Others benefit from paint, lighting, or small repairs. I'll give you an honest recommendation for your specific home after we walk through it.
I look at recent sales of comparable homes, what's active and pending nearby, and how your home's condition and features compare. Then I explain the range and my recommendation.
Most vacant homes benefit from staging. For occupied homes, we often edit and rearrange what you have and add a few pieces where it helps. We decide together based on the home.
Often, yes. We plan the work and showings around your schedule. Some projects are easier when the home is empty, and I'll tell you when that's the case.
Reach out and we'll set up a walkthrough. You'll come away with a clear sense of what your home needs and what to do next.

Thinking about selling?

Tell me a little about your home and your timing. I'll follow up by phone or email, whichever you prefer.

Request a home value review Call or text 510-338-7144

Sean Walsh, Licensed California Real Estate Salesperson, DRE #01993112.

Kai Real Estate, 2991 College Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94705. Broker DRE #02022092.