Selling a home can seem like a complicated and intimidating venture. The consequences of making a mistake when selling a home can be financially disastrous. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when selling your home.
Common Selling Mistake No. 1: Choosing the Wrong Agent/Broker
It's tempting to grab the first agent/broker that comes your way so that you can go about the business of selling your house. However, as the person who will be most heavily involved in the transaction, the agent/broker should be chosen with great deliberation and care. Meet with several agents/brokers from different agencies to find one that you feel truly comfortable with. Ask questions regarding how much experience the person has selling homes of your type and in the neighborhood where it is located. Ask for a game plan for how the person will sell your home and ask for some references.
Common Selling Mistake No. 2: Setting the Price Too High
You may want to list your home for more than you expect to get, but setting it too high above market value may discourage potential buyers from even looking at your property. If you want to sell in a short timeframe, this could be a real problem. Work with your real estate agent to set a reasonable price based on what the current market is bearing for homes in your area.
Common Selling Mistake No. 3: Not Presenting Well
Remember that potential buyers will be viewing your home. Make sure it is as presentable as possible. Keep your home clean, neat and freshly painted. Make any needed repairs. Let potential buyers know that they are buying more than just a piece of property; they are buying a home. Someone is going to spend a lot of money on your house, help them feel confident that they are making the right decision.
Common Selling Mistake No. 4: Wasting Time with a Non-Buyer
You don't want to waste too much of your and your agent's time and resources on someone who is not seriously interested in purchasing your property. If a buyer puts him or herself out as a serious candidate to purchase your home, but the transaction is not moving forward, take steps. Have your agent assess whether the person is a realistic buyer based on their potential buying power. If they are not a realistic candidate for your home, move on.
