5 Incredibly Common Seller Mistakes

🏡 1️⃣ Overpricing the Home

The Mistake:
Many sellers think starting high leaves room to “negotiate down,” but in today’s market, an overpriced home often sits longer and ends up selling for less than it would have if priced correctly.

The Fix:
Work with your agent to do a comparative market analysis (CMA) and price your home based on actual market data, not emotion. Remember — your first 10–14 days on the market are golden. That’s when buyers are most active and offers are strongest.

🧹 2️⃣ Skipping the Prep Work

The Mistake:
Not cleaning, decluttering, or staging the home before listing. Buyers make decisions fast, and small details can make or break a showing.

The Fix:
Do a deep clean, remove personal items, and tackle minor repairs. Fresh paint, curb appeal, and neutral décor go a long way. In Florida and Alabama’s sunny markets, bright, airy spaces photograph best — so open those blinds and let the light in! ☀️

📸 3️⃣ Using Poor or DIY Listing Photos

The Mistake:
Snapping quick phone pictures instead of hiring a professional. Online listings are your first showing — and buyers scroll fast.

The Fix:
Invest in professional real estate photography (and video if possible). A well-lit, high-quality photo package will increase clicks, showings, and offers — especially for online searches in competitive markets like Baldwin County or the Florida Panhandle.

💬 4️⃣ Getting Emotionally Attached During Negotiations

The Mistake:
Taking offers personally or refusing to negotiate because the price “feels too low.”

The Fix:
Try to view the sale as a business transaction. Lean on your agent to handle offers and counteroffers objectively. Remember: a seriousoffer is better than waiting months for a perfect one that may never come.

🕒 5️⃣ Ignoring Financing & Timing Details

The Mistake:
Accepting an offer without understanding the buyer’s loan type, pre-approval strength, or closing timeline — which can lead to delays or deals falling apart.

The Fix:
Ask questions before accepting an offer:

• Is the buyer fully pre-approved (not just pre-qualified)?

• What type of loan are they using (FHA, VA, conventional)?

• What’s their estimated closing date and contingencies?

Your mortgage professional or agent can help you evaluate the strength of the buyer’s financing so you don’t waste time under contract with someone who can’t close.

💡 Pro Tip:
If you’re planning to sell and then buy another home, talk to your mortgage broker early. Understanding your equity, loan options, and timing can help you transition smoothly — without the stress of juggling two closings.