Top 10 Mistakes Homesellers Make and How to Avoid Them

Navigating the real estate market can be daunting, whether you’re buying or selling a home. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a smoother, more successful experience. Below, I’ve personally compiled the top 10 mistakes I’ve noticed homesellers make, along with practical solutions to help you achieve your real estate goals.

For Homesellers

1. Selling for the Wrong Reasons

Selling without a clear purpose can lead to regret or financial missteps.

Solution: Ask yourself why you’re selling, where the proceeds will go, and if it’s the right time for you to sell.

2. Neglecting Pre-Listing Preparation

A cluttered or poorly maintained home can turn off potential buyers.

Solution: Declutter, depersonalize, and consider pre-inspections, Status Certificates (for condos), or Laneway/Garden Suite reports to make your property market-ready.

3. Skipping Staging

Unstaged homes often sell for less and take longer to attract buyers.

Solution: Invest in professional staging to help buyers visualize themselves in the space. Staged homes can sell for up to 6% more.

4. Hiring a “Yes” REALTOR®

A realtor who agrees with everything you say may not provide the honest feedback needed for a successful sale.

Solution: Choose a skilled, honest REALTOR® who offers constructive advice and prioritizes your best interests.

5. Ignoring Key Market Metrics

Not understanding the market can lead to mispriced listings or missed opportunities.

Solution: Familiarize yourself with metrics like List vs. Sale Price, Months of Inventory, and Average Days on Market to make informed decisions.

6. Overlooking Selling Costs

Unexpected costs like commissions or mortgage penalties can eat into your profits.

Solution: Calculate all selling costs, including commissions, closing costs, and potential mortgage penalties, before listing.

7. Lacking a Pricing Strategy

A poorly priced home can sit on the market or attract low offers.

Solution: Work with your REALTOR® to develop a pricing strategy, whether it’s setting an offer date, building in negotiation room, or pricing competitively.

8. Being Inflexible with Showings

Restricting access to your home can deter serious buyers.

Solution: Be flexible with showing schedules to accommodate buyers, even if it’s inconvenient, to maximize your chances of a sale.

9. Skipping Open Houses

Opting out of open houses can limit your property’s exposure.

Solution: Allow open houses to attract buyers who prefer browsing without their REALTOR®. They often lead to direct sales.

10. Overlooking Presentation Details

Poor curb appeal or small presentation flaws can turn off buyers.

Solution: Enhance curb appeal, leave lights on during showings, and ensure your home is inviting and easy to spot from the street.

Ready to Buy or Sell with Confidence?

At Century 21 Percy Fulton Real Estate, I’m committed to guiding you through the real estate process with personalized strategies and expert advice. Whether you’re buying or selling, my team is here to help you avoid these common mistakes and achieve your goals.

Get a Free Property Report!
Text “FREE REPORT” to (647) 272-8030 or email lorraine.galura@c21.ca to receive a complimentary REALTOR® AVM Property Report, including a real-time market value estimate, recent comparable sales, and trusted property insights.

Contact Me Today
Lorraine Galura
Real Estate Sales Representative
lorraine.galura@c21.ca
Direct: (647) 272-8030
Office: (416) 298-8200
buysellrentgta.com
Century 21 Percy Fulton Ltd., Brokerage

 For informational purposes. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers, landlords or tenants currently under contract or recently expired.