1. Not preparing for closing costs
When you're getting ready to sell your home with a Realtor you need to be prepared for the Realtor's commission fee. You'll also have lawyer fees, moving costs if renting a truck or hiring a moving company. If you're hiring cleaners for a move-out cleaning and a move-in cleaning on your new home. Sometimes you'll have utility hook up fees at your new home and also the cost associated with rerouting your mail. You want to ensure you have at least 1-2% of the purchase price in a savings account ready to help with your closing costs.
2. Not staging your home
Some people are so attached to their things they don't realize it's too much clutter in a space. Make sure you have your Realtor come over and give advice on what you can do to ensure your home shows well. When it shows better your home will sell quicker and for top dollar.
3. Setting an unrealistic price
When I meet with my sellers I always ask them what they believe their home is worth before giving them the market value. A lot of times we are close in numbers, so my evaluation isn't such a shock. But there are some that believe, because you want to pay off your credit card debt and you raised your kids there, your home is worth more. Unfortunately, those items have no bearing on your market value. However, it does tell me how important your home is to you and with that I make sure I take extra good care of you and your home in the sale.
4. Not using professional photography
If you're not using professional photography you may as well not even compete. You could have the most beautiful home, but if you're not using professional photography, your home is not being displayed properly. I'm not saying you won't get an offer, you may. But I would bet that the offer takes way longer to come and won't be as good as you'd like. The value of your home is a buyers perception of it. Not to worry if you're thinking it sounds pricey, I cover the cost of a pro photographer in my services.
5. Not getting advice before doing a bunch of renovations
The worst thing you could do is put a lot of money into home renovations because you think you'll make money in the sale. Technically, you may get more money for the sale then you would've if you hadn't done the renos. BUT, the amount you get will most likely not recoup, or be more than the money you spent. If you're planning on "making money" on the sale, it's most likely not a good idea to do major renovations unless a major repair is needed. Make sure to consult with your Realtor before committing to any time consuming, costly reno's.
Bottom line, talk with your trusted Realtor if you're thinking of selling.
This will help get all your questions answered so you know what to expect and prepare for.
Selling can be an enjoyable experience with the right guidance and representation.
I'm here to help! Reach out to me if you're thinking of selling this year!