5 Costly Seller Mistakes That Can Drain Your Profits

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Done right, it can put thousands more in your pocket. Done wrong, it can leave money sitting on the table, or worse, cost you outright. Here are the top five to watch out for (and how to avoid them).

Overpricing the Home

It’s natural to want to squeeze every dollar out of your home, but starting too high can backfire. Buyers and their agents, are savvy. They’re comparing your property to everything else on the market. If your price looks inflated, they’ll move on quickly. The longer a house sits, the more “stale” it appears, and that often means price reductions later… sometimes much lower than if it had been priced right from the start.

Pro Tip: Trust market data, not just emotion, when setting your price.

Skipping Repairs

That leaky faucet, peeling paint, or squeaky door might not seem like a big deal, but buyers notice. Small issues send a message that bigger (and more expensive) problems may be lurking. And when buyers spot repairs, they often mentally add double or triple the real cost.

Pro Tip: A few hundred dollars in small fixes can prevent buyers from knocking thousands off their offer.

Poor Presentation

You only get one first impression. Messy rooms, cluttered countertops, or outdated décor can turn off buyers before they even imagine themselves living there. In today’s market, photos and online listings are where buyers “meet” your home first.

Pro Tip: Declutter, deep clean, and consider professional staging or photography to show your home in its best light.

Ignoring Curb Appeal

Buyers decide within seconds of pulling up to a house if it feels “right.” Overgrown shrubs, cracked walkways, or a tired front door can drag down their perception of the entire property.

Pro Tip: Invest a weekend in fresh landscaping, a power wash, and maybe a new coat of paint on the front door. Small touches make a big difference.

Going It Alone (FSBO)

Trying to sell your home yourself can sound like a money-saver, skip the commission, keep more cash. But the reality? Statistics consistently show that homes sold with a professional agent not only sell faster but for significantly more money. DIY sellers often underestimate the marketing, negotiation, and legal steps required.

Pro Tip: A good agent doesn’t cost you money, they make you money.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these five mistakes can mean the difference between a stressful sale that costs you thousands and a smooth transaction that nets you top dollar. If you’re thinking about selling, start by getting solid advice and a clear strategy before you list.

Thinking about putting your home on the market? Let’s talk. I’d be glad to help you avoid these costly pitfalls and guide you toward a successful sale.       ClickHERE to connect!