9 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home
We often hear the phrase “home is where the heart is” and I could not agree more. But, no matter how much you love your home, there might come a time when you will need to move out and find a new house.
If you are planning to sell your property before buying a new one, you have to make sure that everything – the process of home selling, dealing with potential buyers, and the condition of the house – is excellent.
Here are 9 critical mistakes to avoid when selling your home:
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Limiting Exposure
You have to attract as many potential buyers as possible. Yes, you can use traditional marketing to inform everyone that your home is for sale, but it may not be as effective as posting a listing online. Do not make one of the biggest mistakes home sellers commit – not shouting from the rooftops that your property is out in the market. Go ahead; maximize the use of digital marketing.
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Being in a Rush
Everything takes time. Apparently, we seldom see a garden bloom overnight. Remember that some properties take a long time to sell. Be realistic; do not expect a full-price offer on the first week it is for sale.
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Not Hiring an Agent
Alright, we know what you are thinking – it is hard to lash out on an agent’s commission; however, trying to sell your property without the help of a professional is harder. Real estate agents will do the arduous task of meeting with potential buyers, help you set a sensible price, and go through the hassles of paperwork. They know how the market operates. Using their skills, you can just sit back and wait until the process of selling your house ends.
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Overpricing
Potential buyers explore in the marketplace for a period of time before finally choosing a home. Thus, they somehow become expert buyers. They easily notice if your property is overpriced or not. Your home must be priced competitively. Do not think that pricing your property higher will provide more room for negotiation. Yes, while that might be true, that tactic do not actually work all the time. Asking beyond a reasonable price causes homebuyers to ignore your home.
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Being a Stalker Seller
Patience is your companion to survive the home-selling process. Do not follow up on your potential buyers every minute (well, that might be exaggerated). Just back off a little bit, maybe? Do not make the mistake of thinking that everyone is “the one”. Follow up on them when the need arises or text them once in a while.
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Hiding Significant Problems
Do not hide the problems your home has and make sure that you inform potential buyers about them. Uncover them during the inspection. Moreover, it is better to address these issues before putting the house on sale.
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Spending Too Much on Renovations
It is not always the best idea to spend thousands of pesos on renovations. It is undeniable that fixing the kitchen sink or repainting the living room walls is a good investment, but there is no guarantee that the money used for such restoration will have a return. Be practical. Track your spending and set a budget.
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Not Tidying Up
An unkempt home is the last thing potential buyers want to see. Say goodbye to your old and ugly furniture, clean your kitchen, and remove anything that just makes the house look untidy. Also, make sure that your house does not smell bad. It will help buyers imagine your home as their home.
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Lying About Your Home
“This is the cleanest house you will ever find the metro.” Oh, okay then. How many home sellers do you think have claimed that also? While it may be tempting to present it as the place where dreams can come true or whatsoever, you have to remember that stretching the truth is dangerous. Be honest about the features of your house or your personal opinion about it. Do not be generic; specify what makes your house apart from the rest.
Putting your property out in the market is both challenging and thrilling. Do not let these mistakes stop you from successfully selling your home; avoid them and reap the rewards of your sale.
Do you know other mistakes home sellers need to avoid? Share it with us in the comments section below.
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