How to Sell a Home in McLean, Fairfax County – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare & Plan Your Sale

A. Get a Market Analysis / Home Value Estimate

Start by understanding your home’s current value in McLean, Fairfax County Virginia. Review recent sales in nearby neighborhoods like Langley, Chesterbrook, Salona Village, and McLean Hamlet to set realistic expectations. Local homes often range between $1M and $5M+, so accurate pricing is essential.

B. Budget for Selling Costs

Common costs to factor in when selling in McLean:

• Realtor commissions (listing + buyer side)
• Closing costs (title, escrow, transfer/recording fees)
• Pre-listing repairs, upgrades, staging
• Professional photography, marketing, signage
• Prorated taxes, utilities, and HOA/condo fees
• Home warranty (optional)

Commission is often one of the biggest costs. In many parts of Fairfax County, traditional total commission rates hover between 5%–6%. On a $1,200,000 McLean home, that could be $60,000–$72,000 in commissions alone.

With our 1.5% full-service listing program, you pay just 1.5% to the listing side — meaning more savings while still receiving full marketing and support.

2. Make Repairs, Stage & Market

A. Repairs and Upgrades

Focus on fixes that deliver ROI in McLean: fresh paint, refinished hardwood floors, updated lighting, and improved curb appeal. Buyers in luxury markets notice details and often pay a premium for move-in-ready homes.

B. Professional Photography, Virtual Tours & Staging

Hire a professional photographer and consider 3D virtual tours or drone photos — McLean listings frequently attract buyers from the D.C. metro area and relocation buyers. Stage rooms to look open, neutral, and move-in ready. Remove clutter, depersonalize, and highlight the home’s strongest features (views, trim, fireplace, smart-home features).

C. MLS + Digital Marketing

List your home on the Bright MLS immediately and syndicate to Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin. Use targeted social media ads aimed at Northern Virginia and D.C. buyers, email campaigns to agent networks, and local neighborhood outreach to maximize exposure.

3. Showings, Offers, and Negotiation

A. Showings & Open Houses

In McLean, Fairfax County Virginia, many buyers are busy professionals — be flexible with showings (weeknights and weekends). Well-timed open houses during the first two weeks on market can drive traffic and generate multiple offers.

B. Reviewing Offers

When offers arrive, weigh more than the headline price — check contingencies, buyer financing strength, proposed closing timeline, and earnest money. A stronger financed offer with fewer contingencies often wins over a higher, weaker offer.

C. Negotiate Smart

Have your agent negotiate repair credits or inspection concessions so you don’t over-discount your price. A seasoned agent in McLean, Fairfax County Virginia knows local comps and buyer expectations and will protect your net proceeds.

4. Under Contract to Closing

A. Inspections & Appraisals

Buyers will order inspections and the lender will order an appraisal. Be prepared to negotiate minor repairs or credits. Ensuring the home is well-documented and maintained helps smooth this stage.

B. Title, Escrow & Paperwork

You’ll work with a title company or settlement attorney to complete closing paperwork, secure title insurance, and record the transfer. Title fees, escrow charges, and recording taxes are typically included in closing costs or split per local custom.

C. Closing Day

On closing day you sign final documents, pay closing costs and commissions, and hand over keys. Once funds clear, your net proceeds are distributed — congratulations, your McLean home is sold!

5. After the Sale — What to Do Next

• Keep records: closing statements, inspection reports, and tax documents.
• Plan your move-out timeline and coordinate hand-off with the buyer.
• Consult your CPA about capital gains and tax implications.
• Use your commission savings (often substantial with a 1.5% listing) toward your next home or investments.

Why This Matters in McLean

McLean is one of Northern Virginia’s most affluent and competitive markets. Homes often range from $1M to $5M+, and buyers expect top-tier presentation and marketing. Because margins can be tight at the top end, saving on commissions can translate into tens of thousands you keep — not pay.

Many sellers in McLean, Fairfax County Virginia are rethinking the traditional 5–6% commission model and choosing modern alternatives like our 1.5% full-service listing program to maintain full service while keeping more equity.

See How Much You Can Save in McLean

Get a free net-proceeds estimate tailored to your McLean property and discover the real savings of our 1.5% full-service listing program.