You’ve decided to make the jump and list your home for sale – congratulations! It’s an exciting time in your life because not only will you be selling, you’ll be starting on your own home search for your next oasis for you and your family. This is a big step, and for most, it can be nerve-wracking too. Besides getting your home museum-ready for showings, you need to think about packing, booking showings with your realtor to see new places, and being flexible for those coming to see your own home. During this hectic time, we wanted to remind you that although there are a number of items on your to-do list, there are a few things that should be on your don’t list and some real common home selling mistakes as to why your home might not be sell as quick as you’d like.
Mistake 1) Don’t Over-Improve
As you get ready to list your home for sale, you may see opportunities for a greater return on your investment if you make a few changes and improvements. Updating your appliances or replacing a cracked cabinet in the bathroom are great ideas. However, it’s important not to over-improve, or make improvements that are specific to your own personal tastes.
For example, not everyone wants a man-cave basement with dark walls, a wet bar and built-in surround sound theatre. What if your buyers are family oriented and want a basement space for their kids to play in? That bachelor pad room may look to them like a huge project to un-do. Make any needed fixes to your space, but don’t go above and beyond—you may lose money doing so.
Mistake 2) – Don’t Over-Decorate
Over-decorating can be just as bad as over-improving. You may love the look of all your treasures featured on a large hutch, on display for your friends and family to see, but this won’t be relatable for buyers. When preparing your home for sale, it’s best to make it a neutral place – it should be staged well with some accents, but all of your personal photos should be stored away.
You want the decorating scheme to be universal – not specific to those who love the color purple. This may be hard to take, as we’ve seen some clients refuse to make changes, but this one is so important to keep in mind and can be a common mistake when selling your home.
Mistake 3) – Don’t Hang Around
Typically, you’ll get 24-hours’ notice that buyers will be coming to see you home – fantastic!! You get the whole family together, Fido your giant Sheep Dog included, and stand at the door waiting for the with refreshments, appetizers and big smiles. Right? No! Stop! Wrong! Buyers want to imagine themselves in your space, not be confronted by you in your space. Trust us. It’s awkward for them to go about judging your home and talk about changes they would make while you stand in the corner smiling like a maniac.
Get out of the house – go for a coffee, take a walk, take the kids to the park. And if you can’t leave for whatever reason, at least go sit in the backyard or downstairs in the lobby of your building. It will be better for everyone in this situation – you don’t have to overhear their critique of the home, and your potential buyers can feel comfortable in their potential new home.
Mistake 4 – Don’t Take Things Personally
This may be the hardest “don’t” to swallow, but it’s true. Don’t take it personally. Real estate is a business, but buying and selling homes is very, very emotional. However, when selling your home or condo, try your very best not to take things personally and to take the emotion out of it. This can be such a common home selling mistake.
When a buyer submits a low offer or says they will need to replace your prized 1970s vintage shag carpet with something “more modern,” try not to let your blood pressure rise. Work with your trusted realtor who is representing your best interests and knows what it takes to get the deal done and move you and your family on to your next dream home.
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