Selling

5 Common Mistakes Home Sellers Make

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Selling your house or condo can lead to an influx of cash—and a fresh start. But before you can complete a successful sale, you’ll need to make it through a series of (often complicated) steps. Understanding the process is key, and while it certainly helps to have a list of to-do’s, it’s just as important to know what not to do.

If you’re ready to sell your home, here are five common (and often costly) mistakes to avoid…

1) Pricing incorrectly

Finding the right price for your home is critical if you want to achieve a great result. Set it too high, and your property could sit on the market without receiving any good offers. Too low, and you may wind up selling it for less than it’s worth. While some first timers simply take a guess, your best bet is to work with an experienced professional. An agent who’s a true pro will use recent home prices in your area, along with their advanced market knowledge, to help you find just the right price.

2) Overlooking small repairs

A small crack in a window frame or a crooked cabinet door may not seem like a big deal, but small defects can send the wrong message to buyers. For this reason, it’s a good idea to get out your toolbelt—or find a qualified handyman—and get to work on those little repairs. While you may want to factor larger issues with your home into the deal you strike with the right buyer, those that can be easily tackled are well worth taking care of before your property goes on the market.

3) Using bad listing photos

Most buyers search for homes online, and the best way to capture their attention is with an eye-catching listing. For this reason, using poor-quality photographs is a big mistake. A professional will have the expertise to show your property in the best light possible. They’ll use perspective, angles, contrast, and lighting to make sure your images stand out online.

4) Forgoing staging

Part of making your home shine (both in photographs and during showings) is dressing it up. From cleaning and decluttering to adding pieces of furniture and decor, staging can make a major difference in your home’s presentation. It’s all about working with a true professional—someone who will make your home will look bigger, brighter, and more appealing to buyers.

5) Refusing to negotiate

It’s one of the biggest mistakes first-time sellers make: standing firm on price when they should be negotiating. While there are times when you definitely shouldn’t drop your number any lower (or agree to a new set of conditions), a bit of flexibility can pay off big time. It’s about give and take, not giving in. To get the most of the negotiation process, work with an agent who’s been through it (and successfully advocated for clients) many times before.

Ready to start the search for your next home? Get in touch—we can walk you through the entire selling process, from beginning to end!