Selling Your Home? Don’t Make These 4 Mistakes

Louisiana REALTORS® • November 9, 2021

Mistakes are inconvenient and expensive; but they also have value, in hindsight. The value of a mistake is the opportunity to learn from it. Whether it’s knowing what to NOT order at a restaurant or how to avoid getting stuck in traffic on the way to work, there was likely a time when you, or someone had to learn these the hard way. This is especially true when it comes to selling your home. Of course these mistakes can cost a lot of time and money, so here are a few to make sure avoid.


Sell without a REALTOR®

REALTORS® are a great resource for home sellers and buyers alike. They have market experience and expertise that, for a home seller, can result in the highest offer possible. When you consider all of the moving parts that make up any real estate transaction, it can be quite a daunting task. If you attempt to sell your house without a trusted professional, you can be quickly overwhelmed and leave serious money on the table.


Have irrational expectations about selling your home

Managing your expectations can be difficult, but it is very important when it comes to selling your home. Of course in a perfect world your home would sell quickly and above your asking price, but that’s not realistic. An aggressive price point and unreasonable expectations for buyers can turn them off of your property in a hurry. The advice and guidance of a REALTOR® can help to ensure that you have a fair and competitive price, making this process much smoother.


Attend open houses and showings

While the desire to be present at open houses and showings is understandable, it may not be in your best interest. When potential buyers are looking at your home and you’re there, it can create an awkward experience. For a buyer trying to imagine themselves in your home while you’re there can be difficult. They may also feel inhibited about providing accurate and honest feedback with you present. This is a great opportunity for your REALTOR® to represent you in your absence during these events.


Not preparing your home for sale

It takes a lot more to sell a home than simply sticking a sign in the yard. Much of that work and due diligence will fall on your REALTOR®, but  there are responsibilities for the home seller as well. Rushing too quickly to get your house on the market can be a costly mistake if it isn’t prepared. A first impression is priceless when it comes to selling your home and if you haven’t made any necessary repairs, decluttered, improved the curb appeal, or staged your home, it may sit longer and go for less.




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