If you are readying to put your house on the market – here are 5 things not to do when selling your home. Taking these steps will ensure a more seamless transaction for all involved.
Don’t Choose the First Agent You Meet:
Well – you can – but do yourself a favor and make sure you interview others at first. Why? You want to hear what they offer (sale and marketing strategies), check for a personality match and discuss problem solving and negotiation techniques. You can also look for client reviews and references as you sort through credentials. According to the National Association of REALTORS, 80% of sellers went with the first agent they spoke to.
Price Your Home Too High
Yes, you most likely need or want top dollar for your house – that is understood. However, pricing too high (more than a competitive market analysis will support) can come with a host of issues. First and foremost – it may lead to your house sitting on the market for an extended period of time. This in turn may cause you to offer a “price improvement” (a nice way of saying price cut). Another negative consequence can come when it is time for an appraisal. If the home is priced too high – you run the risk of issues with appraisals and financing (assuming your buyers will be looking to finance a portion of their purchase).
Be Unavailable
Understandably – you are going to be busy as you prepare to move yourself. However, that doesn’t mean you should be unavailable to your agent during the sales process. From approving showing requests to working through incoming offers – your input will be needed most steps of the way. Your agent will do their best to cover as much as they can – but there are times you will be needed – and rather urgently (remember that saying time is of the essence? Never more true than during a real estate transaction).
Be Unwilling to Negotiate
This goes hand in hand with not overpricing your house and being unavailable. You need to be able, willing and prepared to negotiate. Most everything in life is negotiable and real estate is certainly an area where negotiations are not only welcome but they are expected.
Let Emotions Take Over
Selling a home can be a very stressful and emotional time – no questions asked here. However, do yourself a favor and ensure that you are not letting your emotions run rampant. Yes, your home is (likely) an investment and represents years of hard work, love and sacrifice. Just remembers – to the buyers – they are looking to satisfy their own hopes, dreams and aspirations through your home. Try to remain calm and lean on friends, family and even your agent as your work through the sales process.
There Can be More than 5 Things Not to Do When Selling a Home:
There are a number of things to do and not to do when selling a house. Hopefully these 5 tips of what not to do when selling your home will help you navigate through a painless sales transaction. Good luck!