6 Dos and 6 Don’ts for Sellers: Your Guide to a Successful Home Sale

Selling your home can be a smooth process if you know what to focus on and what to avoid. Follow these Dos and avoid these Don’ts for a seamless experience.

6 Dos for Sellers

1. Price Your Home Competitively
   Setting the right price is crucial. Overpricing can scare off buyers and result in your home sitting on the market for too long, leading to price reductions that may make buyers suspicious. Collaborate with an experienced agent to analyze comparable sales and local trends to determine a competitive price from the start.

2. Boost Curb Appeal
   First impressions matter! The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, so invest time in improving it. Power wash the siding, plant colorful flowers, and make sure the lawn is mowed and edged. Small changes like painting the front door or updating house numbers can make a big impact. Oh and don't forget the mailbox!

3. Stage Your Home
   Staging goes beyond cleaning—it's about creating an environment that appeals to buyers. Remove clutter, rearrange furniture to maximize space, and add neutral décor to highlight your home’s best features. If staging feels overwhelming, consult a professional or your agent for help. Better yet, find an agent that offers free partial staging with their listings.

4. Highlight Key Features
   Buyers connect with homes on an emotional level, so let your agent know the reasons you’ve loved living in your home. Whether it’s the natural light in the living room, the cozy backyard, or the proximity to parks and schools, these personal insights can help your agent craft a compelling listing and attract the right buyers.

5. Be Flexible with Showings
   Convenience is key for buyers. Make it as easy as possible for them to schedule a visit, even on short notice. Being accommodating increases the chances of getting more eyes on your property, which often leads to quicker offers.

6. Hire an Experienced Agent
   Selling a home involves pricing, marketing, negotiation, and paperwork. Partner with an agent who understands your market. An experienced agent (like me!) can guide you through every step, saving you time and helping you secure the best possible price.

6 Don’ts for Sellers

1. Don’t Let Emotions Lead
   Selling your home can be emotional, but it’s important to think of it as a transaction. Detach yourself from personal memories and focus on what appeals to buyers. For instance, remove overly personal items like family photos to help buyers imagine the space as their own.

2. Don’t Skip Necessary Repairs
   Small fixes can have a big impact. Address leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or peeling paint before listing. Ignoring minor issues can make buyers question the overall maintenance of your home and might cost you more during negotiations or inspections.

3. Don’t Stay During Showings
   Leave the property entirely when buyers are viewing your home. Having the seller present makes buyers uncomfortable, reducing the chances of them discussing or envisioning the property openly. Worse, you could inadvertently answer questions incorrectly, causing confusion or distrust. Allow your agent to handle showings professionally and create an environment where buyers feel at ease.

4. Don’t Hide Property Issues
   Be upfront about any known problems with your home. Hiding issues can lead to major complications during inspections, and buyers may lose trust or walk away entirely. Transparency is not only ethical but also a good strategy for smoother negotiations.

5. Don’t Ignore Market Trends
   Trust your agent to stay informed about what’s selling and what buyers are looking for in your area. They can help you make informed decisions about updates, upgrades, or pricing strategies that align with current trends and maximize your home’s appeal.

6. Don’t Rely on Old-School Marketing
   The days of relying solely on yard signs and open houses. Of course, newspaper ads are long gone. Modern buyers expect high-quality photos, virtual tours, social media ads, and online visibility. Work with an agent who can develop a marketing plan that leverages both traditional and digital platforms to reach the widest audience.

By focusing on these tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and stress-free home sale. Ready to list? Contact me, Sheila Howell, to simplify your real estate journey and achieve the best results!