Selling a home Mistakes sellers make Cleaning and cleanliness Listening to Realtors Air fresheners and odors Overpricing a house Staging a home Curb appeal and exterior maintenance Negotiating offers Emotions in the selling process Realtor advice and skills Ultimate guide to selling a house Buying and selling in Des Moines

If you're a homeowner considering selling your home, you've come to the right place. I want to share with you the 7 Costly Mistakes sellers make when selling their homes, so you can avoid them and maximize your profits.

Cleanliness: The First Impression Matters

Cleaning your home thoroughly may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many sellers overlook this crucial step. Buyers have different cleanliness standards, so it's important to go above and beyond. Consider hiring a cleaning crew for a deep clean, shining up appliances, and even removing evidence of pets. Creating a pristine environment allows buyers to envision themselves living in your home and helps you command top dollar.

Listen to Your Realtor

You hired a realtor for their expertise, so make sure you listen to their advice. If you constantly question their guidance, it might be a sign that you need to find a realtor you trust. Remember, a successful sale requires a collaborative effort between you and your realtor.

Avoid Air Fresheners: Let Your Home Speak for Itself

While air fresheners may create a pleasant aroma, they can raise suspicions in buyers' minds. Instead of covering up odors, address them directly by deep cleaning carpets or addressing any underlying issues. Let your home's natural scent shine through, and buyers will appreciate the transparency.

Don't Overprice Your Home

One common mistake sellers make is setting an unrealistic price for their homes. Listing the above market value can deter potential buyers and waste valuable time. Instead, price your home competitively, allowing room for negotiation. The market will never let you underprice your home, as demand will drive the price.

Stage Your Home for Success

Staging your home can significantly impact its appeal to buyers. While professional staging can work wonders, even small changes can make a difference. Declutter, rearrange furniture to improve flow and ensure your home is clean and presentable. By staging your home effectively, you create an inviting atmosphere that helps buyers envision their future in your space.

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and that starts with your home's exterior. Pay attention to curb appeal by addressing necessary repairs, refreshing paint if needed, adding potted plants, and freshening up the landscaping. Neglecting the exterior can create negative perceptions and discourage potential buyers. Take pride in your home's appearance to attract more interest and potentially increase its selling price.

Negotiate, Don't Reject Offers

When an offer comes in, don't dismiss it outright. Negotiation is the key to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. Work with your realtor to engage in productive back-and-forth discussions with potential buyers. By keeping the lines of communication open, you increase your chances of finding the right buyer and securing a favorable deal. 

🏠Don't forget to download the Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House


If you're looking to buy or sell real estate in the Greater Des Moines area:

✅ Get a jump start on finding your next home

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✅ For more information on Heather Wright & Associates at RE/MAX Concepts

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Selling your home can be a complex process, but by avoiding these seven common mistakes, you'll increase your chances of a successful sale.

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