If you’re planning to sell your home, there are a few common missteps that can cause unnecessary stress—or cost you thousands. The good news? They’re completely avoidable when you know what to look out for and have the right expert in your corner.
Here are four of the most common seller mistakes—and how a great real estate agent helps you avoid them.
1. Overpricing From the Start
It’s natural to want top dollar for your home, especially if you’ve invested time, money, or love into it. But today’s shifting market means pricing it too high could actually hurt your chances. As Investopedia puts it:
“Setting a list price too high could mean your home struggles to attract buyers and stays on the market for longer.”
When a home sits too long, it risks price cuts that can send the wrong message to future buyers. A skilled agent helps you price your home competitively from day one, based on real-time local data, the home’s condition, and what comparable properties are selling for. That often leads to more interest—and stronger offers.
2. Spending Money on the Wrong Upgrades
With inventory growing, buyers have more homes to choose from—and that means sellers are facing more competition. It’s tempting to upgrade everything before listing, but not all renovations bring a return on investment.
This is where a local agent’s insight is invaluable. They’ll advise on which projects truly boost your home’s value and which ones won’t pay off. Even better, they’ll know how to showcase those improvements to stand out online and draw in more potential buyers.
3. Refusing To Negotiate
The days of multiple aggressive bidding wars are slowing in many areas. With more inventory available, buyers have more leverage—and negotiation is part of the process.
If the first offer you receive on your home isn’t exactly what you were hoping for, don’t be discouraged. Negotiation is a normal part of the process. You might consider sweetening the deal by helping with a portion of the buyer’s closing costs or providing a credit for small repairs identified during the inspection.
Your agent helps you navigate these conversations, balancing your goals with market norms. Sometimes, a small compromise can be the key to keeping the deal together and getting you one step closer to your next move.
4. Choosing the First Agent Without Research
It might surprise you to learn that 81% of home sellers work with the first agent they speak to—often skipping critical research. But not every agent brings the same experience, strategy, or results.
Take time to read reviews, ask questions, and check recent sales. The right agent will know how to price, market, and negotiate in your best interest. You want someone who’s not only experienced, but also a strong communicator and trusted advisor throughout the entire process.
Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk First.
Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when you have the right team behind you. Whether you’re thinking of selling now or just exploring your options, we’re happy to chat about what makes sense for you. Reach out any time to connect.
What’s one thing you’d want expert advice on before listing your home?
Here are four of the most common seller mistakes—and how a great real estate agent helps you avoid them.
1. Overpricing From the Start
It’s natural to want top dollar for your home, especially if you’ve invested time, money, or love into it. But today’s shifting market means pricing it too high could actually hurt your chances. As Investopedia puts it:
“Setting a list price too high could mean your home struggles to attract buyers and stays on the market for longer.”
When a home sits too long, it risks price cuts that can send the wrong message to future buyers. A skilled agent helps you price your home competitively from day one, based on real-time local data, the home’s condition, and what comparable properties are selling for. That often leads to more interest—and stronger offers.
2. Spending Money on the Wrong Upgrades
With inventory growing, buyers have more homes to choose from—and that means sellers are facing more competition. It’s tempting to upgrade everything before listing, but not all renovations bring a return on investment.
This is where a local agent’s insight is invaluable. They’ll advise on which projects truly boost your home’s value and which ones won’t pay off. Even better, they’ll know how to showcase those improvements to stand out online and draw in more potential buyers.
3. Refusing To Negotiate
The days of multiple aggressive bidding wars are slowing in many areas. With more inventory available, buyers have more leverage—and negotiation is part of the process.
If the first offer you receive on your home isn’t exactly what you were hoping for, don’t be discouraged. Negotiation is a normal part of the process. You might consider sweetening the deal by helping with a portion of the buyer’s closing costs or providing a credit for small repairs identified during the inspection.
Your agent helps you navigate these conversations, balancing your goals with market norms. Sometimes, a small compromise can be the key to keeping the deal together and getting you one step closer to your next move.
4. Choosing the First Agent Without Research
It might surprise you to learn that 81% of home sellers work with the first agent they speak to—often skipping critical research. But not every agent brings the same experience, strategy, or results.
Take time to read reviews, ask questions, and check recent sales. The right agent will know how to price, market, and negotiate in your best interest. You want someone who’s not only experienced, but also a strong communicator and trusted advisor throughout the entire process.
Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk First.
Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when you have the right team behind you. Whether you’re thinking of selling now or just exploring your options, we’re happy to chat about what makes sense for you. Reach out any time to connect.
What’s one thing you’d want expert advice on before listing your home?
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