Don’t Do This: 5 Common Mistakes Home Sellers Regret

Selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions most people will ever make.

With emotions running high and so much at stake, it’s easy to make mistakes that can cost you time, money, or even the sale altogether.

The good news? Most of these mistakes are avoidable. Here are five common missteps home sellers often regret—and how to sidestep them.

1. Overpricing the Home

It’s natural to want top dollar for your home, especially if you’ve invested in updates or have cherished memories there. But pricing it too high can backfire.

An overpriced home sits on the market longer, deters potential buyers, and may end up selling for less than market value after price reductions.

What to do instead: Trust your real estate agent’s market analysis and price competitively from the start.

A well-priced home attracts more interest and can even spark bidding wars.

2. Neglecting Repairs and Maintenance

Buyers notice everything—from chipped paint to leaky faucets. Small issues signal neglect and may make them wonder what bigger problems are lurking.

Skipping repairs can also lead to failed inspections and derail the closing process.

What to do instead: Walk through your home with fresh eyes or ask your agent for honest feedback.

Fix anything that’s broken and consider a pre-listing inspection to identify and address potential deal-breakers in advance.

3. Skimping on Staging and Presentation

First impressions matter. A cluttered, dark, or overly personalized home can be hard for buyers to envision as their own.

Poor presentation reduces your home’s perceived value and can lengthen time on the market.

What to do instead: Clean thoroughly, declutter, and depersonalize. Invest in professional staging if possible—or at least rearrange furniture to highlight the home’s best features.

Good photos and curb appeal are equally important in attracting online and in-person interest.

4. Being Emotionally Attached

It’s tough to detach from a place that holds your memories, but selling a home is a business transaction.

Sellers who take negotiations personally or refuse to be flexible may lose serious buyers over minor details.

What to do instead: Try to view the process through a business lens. Keep your end goal in mind and lean on your agent for guidance during negotiations. Being open and professional can lead to smoother deals and better outcomes.

5. Trying to Sell Without an Agent

In the age of online tools, it might seem tempting to go the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route.

But selling a home involves legal contracts, marketing strategy, pricing precision, and negotiation skills. Many FSBO sellers eventually hire an agent after costly mistakes.

What to do instead: Partner with an experienced real estate professional. Their expertise can help you avoid pitfalls, reach more buyers, and ultimately sell faster and for more money.

Don’t Stress, Impress
Avoiding these five common mistakes can save you stress, time, and thousands of dollars. With the right mindset and a strong team, selling your home can be a smooth—and even profitable—experience.