Selling a home can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. With so much at stake, it’s easy for even experienced homeowners to make missteps that can impact their bottom line. To help you get the best price and a smooth selling experience, here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid—and some insider tips on what to do instead!
Mistake #1: Pricing Your Home Too High (or Too Low)
One of the biggest pitfalls sellers face is getting the price wrong. Pricing too high can scare away serious buyers and cause your home to sit on the market longer than necessary. On the other hand, underpricing could mean leaving money on the table.
What to Do Instead:
Work with your real estate agent to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This will give you a clear picture of what similar homes in your area have sold for, helping you set a price that’s competitive and attractive.
Pro Tip: Remember, the first 30 days are crucial! Setting the right price upfront can generate excitement and more offers.
Mistake #2: Skimping on Home Preparation
A home that looks “well-loved” can turn off potential buyers. That leaky faucet, scuffed baseboards, or outdated fixtures can make your property seem less desirable.
What to Do Instead:
Invest some time and money into minor repairs and sprucing up your home’s appearance. Consider a fresh coat of paint, a deep clean, and decluttering. First impressions count, so make sure your home is showing at its absolute best.
Pro Tip: Small touches like fresh flowers, clean windows, and polished hardware can make a huge difference without breaking the bank.
Mistake #3: Neglecting Curb Appeal
You’d be surprised how many sellers overlook the exterior of their home. If your home’s curb appeal isn’t up to par, potential buyers may decide to pass before they even step inside.
What to Do Instead:
Spruce up your front yard by trimming hedges, mowing the lawn, and adding a few seasonal plants. A clean walkway, a freshly painted front door, and updated house numbers can also make your home feel more welcoming.
Pro Tip: Consider pressure washing your driveway and walkways for an instant face-lift!
Mistake #4: Using Amateur Photography
In today’s digital world, your home’s first showing is online. Low-quality or poorly lit photos can make your property look small, dark, or unappealing, resulting in fewer showings.
What to Do Instead:
Hire a professional real estate photographer to capture your home in the best light. Great photos highlight your home’s best features and can make a big impact on buyers’ interest.
Pro Tip: If you’re staging your home, do it before the photo shoot. Empty or cluttered rooms don’t translate well in pictures.
Mistake #5: Being Emotionally Attached
It’s hard not to be attached to a place you’ve called home for years. But when it’s time to sell, emotions can get in the way of making smart decisions, like overpricing or rejecting reasonable offers.
What to Do Instead:
Try to view your home as a product and focus on the end goal. Trust your real estate agent’s guidance—they’re there to help you make the best decisions based on market data, not emotions.
Pro Tip: Consider the feedback from potential buyers and be willing to make adjustments. Flexibility can lead to a quicker, more successful sale.