What NOT to do when selling your home

Putting your house up for sale is a big deal. Before you get caught up in the frenzy of listing as soon as possible, review this list of 9 common seller mistakes. Avoiding these mistakes optimizes your chances of selling your home quickly and for the best price.

1. Getting emotionally involved.

Being emotionally attached to the process won’t help your home sell. Think of yourself as a business person and home seller rather than the home’s owner. It’s a subtle but helpful distinction.

2. Trying to sell the home yourself.

A competent and trusted real estate agent protects your interests. We’ll set a fair yet competitive price for your home. We will handle the sometimes difficult and always time-consuming interactions with potential buyers and their agents. And we’ll negotiate on your behalf. Selling a home is time intensive. We take a lot of those details off your plate so you can concentrate on where you’re going next.

3. Setting an unrealistic price. 

We can’t emphasize this enough. Setting the right price is key. Overpriced homes usually don’t sell, not even in a seller’s market.

4. Expecting the asking price.

Unless the market is incredibly hot, smart buyers want to negotiate. This is another aspect of setting the right price. The goal is to hit the sweet spot with a price that attracts buyers yet leaves breathing room for negotiation.

5. Skimping on listing photos and posting poor quality photos online.

Home buyers start their search online. They want to see photos. Upload crisp images taken during the day when the lighting is favorable.

6. Not carrying proper insurance.

Be sure you’re insured in case a potential buyer has an accident on your premises. Get rid of any obvious hazards before listing the house. Take your dog for a walk during showings.

7. Hiding major problems or defects and failing to make necessary repairs. 

There’s no point in hiding big problems; they will be uncovered during the inspection. Fix those issues upfront and make the necessary repairs, or offer the buyer a credit to fix the problem themselves. We can advise on these matters and connect you with competent trades people.

8. Not preparing for the sale.

Failing to de-clutter and properly clean your home, garage, and yard will reduce your asking price and possibly prevent the sale. Consider staging your home to boost its appeal. We have expertise in this area.

9. Not accommodating buyers.

Keep your home spotless while you’re on the market. It’s takes extra time but it could mean getting the sale. Juggle your schedule to accommodate the buyer’s schedule. You can’t know ahead of time which showing will deliver your buyer. Our best advice is to be prepared.

We’re here to advise, guide, and help get your home ready to sell. Give us a call. We’ll be sure you don’t make any common seller mistakes.