Don't Make These Mistakes When Selling Your Home

Thinking about selling your home? It’s a big decision—and one that can come with a few common (but costly) missteps if you're not careful. The good news? With a little guidance, most of these pitfalls are easy to avoid.

Here are four of the most common mistakes sellers make—and how working with the right real estate agent can help you steer clear of them.

1. Overpricing Your Home

It’s completely natural to want top dollar for your home—especially if you’ve invested time and money into it. But in today’s shifting market, overpricing can actually hurt your chances of selling.

As Investopedia explains:

“Setting a list price too high could mean your home struggles to attract buyers and stays on the market for longer.”

When a home lingers on the market, it often leads to price reductions that can raise red flags for buyers. That’s why pricing your home correctly from day one is so important.

A great real estate agent will analyze recent sales, assess your home’s condition, and consider current market trends to help you land on a competitive price—one that attracts serious buyers and could even lead to multiple offers.

2. Investing in the Wrong Upgrades

With more homes on the market than buyers (nearly half a million more, according to Redfin), competition is fierce. While some improvements may help your home stand out, not all upgrades deliver a strong return on investment.

The key is knowing which projects actually matter to today’s buyers.

A local real estate expert understands what buyers in your area are really looking for—and what improvements are worth your time and money. Even better, they’ll know how to market those upgrades in your listing so your home grabs attention both online and in person.

3. Refusing To Negotiate

With inventory on the rise, buyers today have more choices—which means more negotiating power.

As U.S. News puts it:

“If you’ve received an offer for your house that isn’t quite what you’d hoped it would be, expect to negotiate... consider offering to cover some of the buyer’s closing costs or agree to a credit for a minor repair the inspector found.”

That’s where your agent becomes your greatest asset. They’ll help you understand buyer expectations, guide you through the negotiation process, and find creative solutions that benefit both parties. A small compromise can go a long way in keeping your deal—and your moving plans—on track.

4. Not Researching Your Agent

Here’s one you might not expect: 81% of sellers choose the first agent they speak with, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

That means many sellers skip important steps like reading reviews, checking past performance, or interviewing more than one agent.

Choosing the right agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the selling process. A top-tier agent will help you price your home correctly, market it effectively, and negotiate with confidence—maximizing your sale while minimizing stress.

Bottom Line

Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when you have an experienced agent by your side. Avoid these common mistakes by partnering with someone who knows your market and has your best interests at heart.

What’s one thing you’d want expert advice on before putting your home on the market?

Let’s chat—I’m here to help you every step of the way.