If you're planning to sell your home, having the right strategy and expectations is key. But some sellers haven’t adjusted to today’s market—where buyers are more selective, and there’s more competition. These missteps can cost time and money.
Here are the three most common mistakes sellers make—and how working with an expert agent can help you avoid them.
1. Pricing Too High
According to a survey by John Burns Real Estate Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM), the #1 challenge sellers face is setting the right price.
Many homeowners overprice their homes, thinking they’ll have room to negotiate. But today’s buyers are budget-conscious and hesitant to overpay. If your price is too high, you risk scaring off buyers, leading to fewer showings and eventual price cuts.
✅ How to avoid it: Work with a knowledgeable local agent who understands recent sales and buyer demand. Pricing correctly from the start increases your chances of attracting strong offers.
2. Skipping Repairs
Even minor maintenance issues—like a dripping faucet or peeling paint—can be red flags to buyers. Small flaws may make them wonder if bigger, costly problems are lurking.
According to Investopedia:
“Sellers who do not clean and stage their homes throw money down the drain . . . Failing to do these things can reduce your sales price and may also prevent you from getting a sale at all.”
✅ How to avoid it: Before listing, consult your agent about which repairs and upgrades will have the biggest impact. Even small fixes can increase your home’s value and appeal.
3. Refusing to Negotiate
With high mortgage rates and rising home prices, buyers today are looking for value—which means they may submit lower offers or ask for concessions. Some sellers take this personally and reject offers outright. But flexibility is key to closing the deal.
U.S. News Real Estate explains:
“The only way to come to a successful deal is to make sure the buyer also feels like he or she benefits . . . consider offering to cover some of the buyer’s closing costs or agree to a credit for a minor repair the inspector found.”
✅ How to avoid it: Lean on your agent to negotiate strategically while keeping your bottom line in mind. A small compromise can make the difference between closing the deal and watching the buyer walk away.
The Biggest Mistake? Trying to Sell Without an Agent
Notice a pattern? An experienced agent can help you avoid every one of these pitfalls. From pricing correctly to marketing your home and negotiating the best deal, having a professional on your side makes all the difference.
Don’t let these common mistakes derail your home sale. Let's connect and create a winning strategy to sell your home quickly and for the best price.
