Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your House

October 20th, 2023

Selling your house is a challenging task, and mistakes during the process can cost you both time and money. Some errors may reduce the amount you receive for your home, while others could make it harder to attract potential buyers. Being aware of these common mistakes ahead of time can help you sell your home efficiently and profitably. Here are the top mistakes to avoid when selling your house.

Asking Too Much for Your Home

While you want a fair price for your home, overpricing can create significant challenges. A listing that’s too high may discourage buyers, resulting in your home sitting on the market longer. Extended market time often leads to price reductions and ultimately selling for less than expected. A real estate agent can provide a comparative market analysis to help you set the right price from the start.

Skipping Repairs

Even minor issues, such as a leaky faucet or dents in walls, can negatively impact buyer perception. Buyers often assume that small, unresolved problems indicate larger hidden issues. Addressing necessary repairs before listing your home can prevent potential buyers from walking away or negotiating down your asking price.

Not Preparing Your House for Showings and Open Houses

Presentation matters. Your home should be clean, decluttered, and inviting for both showings and open houses. This includes:

  • Vacuuming and dusting every room
  • Washing windows and wiping down counters
  • Organizing closets and storage areas
  • Sprucing up your front and backyard, trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, and removing weeds

A well-prepared home creates a positive impression and helps buyers envision themselves living there.

Keeping Your House Too Personalized

Highly personalized items, such as family photos or unique decor, can prevent buyers from picturing the home as their own. While it’s okay to keep a few tasteful decorations, consider putting away personal items and maintaining a neutral design to appeal to a broader audience.

Only Doing Limited Showings

Restricting showings to certain days or times can limit buyer interest. Flexibility is key — accommodating weekday or evening showings may help sell your home faster and to more potential buyers.

Not Factoring in Closing Costs

Closing costs can significantly reduce your net profit. These expenses may include title insurance, HOA fees, commissions, escrow fees, and prorated property taxes. Accounting for these costs early ensures your expected profits remain realistic.

Only Looking at Your Highest Offer

The highest offer isn’t always the best. Some offers may come with contingencies, like requiring the buyer to sell their own home first or requesting repair credits. Evaluate all offers carefully, considering both the terms and the total net profit, not just the dollar amount.

Thinking You Can Sell Your Home Without a Real Estate Agent

Selling without a professional is a common mistake. A skilled real estate agent helps with pricing, staging, open houses, marketing, and navigating paperwork. Without an agent, you increase your risk of errors and potentially losing money or prolonging the sale.

Ormond Beach Real Estate

If you’re planning to sell your home, hiring an experienced real estate agent is essential. Mike Glisson has extensive knowledge of the Ormond Beach market and can provide expert guidance to ensure your home sells quickly, efficiently, and for the best possible price.