The Top Mistakes Home Sellers Make (and What to Do Instead)
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial — and emotional — decisions you’ll ever make. While many sellers unknowingly fall into common traps, the good news is that a few proactive steps can make the entire process smoother, faster, and more profitable. And you don’t have to do it alone. The key to a successful sale is working closely with a trusted real estate advisor who knows your market, understands your goals, and guides you through every step.
While your agent will handle much of the heavy lifting, it’s important to understand the process and know the right questions to ask. Here are nine areas where sellers often stumble — and what you and your agent can do instead to set your home up for success.
October 2025
1. Price Your Home Strategically
The listing price sets the tone for your entire sale. Too high, and your home may sit on the market. Too low, and you leave money on the table.
What works: Your agent should provide a detailed market analysis and recommend a price that attracts buyers while maximizing your return.
Ask your agent: How did you arrive at this price, and what do comparable homes in the area suggest?
2. Make a Strong First Impression
Curb appeal matters — buyers start forming opinions before they even walk through the door.
What works: Fresh landscaping, a clean entryway, and a welcoming front door can make a world of difference. Your agent can advise on which updates will deliver the highest impact.
Ask your agent: Which improvements are worth tackling before we list?
3. Stage Your Home for Success
A well-staged home helps buyers picture themselves living there.
What works: Whether it’s professional staging or strategic decluttering, staging highlights your home’s best features. Many agents partner with stagers or provide design tips themselves.
Ask your agent: Do you recommend staging, and if so, can you connect me with a stager?
4. Market Your Home Across Multiple Channels
Today’s buyers are searching everywhere — online, on social media, and even through email alerts. A simple “For Sale” sign isn’t enough.
What works: Your agent should use professional photography, compelling listing descriptions, and broad exposure across MLS, real estate websites, and social media platforms.
Ask your agent: What marketing channels will you use to make sure my home reaches the widest pool of buyers?
5. Highlight Your Home’s Best Features Online
Most buyers begin their search online, so your digital presence needs to stand out.
What works: Clear, well-lit photography, video tours, and even drone footage can make your home pop in a crowded marketplace.
Ask your agent: Can I see examples of your recent listing photos and videos?
6. Be Flexible with Showings — and Don’t Be Present
Accessibility can make or break a sale. Buyers need to see your home when it fits their schedule.
What works: Keep your home ready for showings and allow flexibility in scheduling. Just as important: step out during showings. Buyers feel more comfortable exploring the property when the seller isn’t there.
Ask your agent: How much notice do I need to prepare for showings?
7. Handle Repairs Before Listing
Small issues can become big negotiation points.
What works: Your agent can walk through your home and recommend simple fixes — like repairing leaky faucets or touching up paint — that prevent buyers from asking for concessions later.
Ask your agent: Which repairs will make the most difference to potential buyers?
8. Understand the True Costs of Selling
It’s easy to focus on the sale price and forget about selling costs.
What works: Your agent can break down everything from closing costs and commission to potential tax implications. This way, you know exactly what to expect when it’s time to close.
Ask your agent: Can you prepare a seller’s net sheet so I understand my bottom line?
9. Keep Emotions in Check
It’s natural to feel attached to your home, but emotions can cloud judgment when selling.
What works: Trust your agent to guide negotiations and provide objective advice. Keeping focused on your goals ensures smoother decision-making and a stronger outcome.
Ask your agent: How will you help me stay grounded during the negotiation process?
Final Thoughts
The most successful home sales happen when sellers and agents work as a team. By asking the right questions, leaning on your agent’s expertise, and staying proactive, you’ll not only avoid common pitfalls but also set yourself up for a faster, smoother sale — and the best possible result.
