1962 Evelyn Byrd Avenue
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
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Fax: 540-437-3523
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Biggest Mistakes Home Sellers Make
Sadly, many sellers just don't do their homework.  If you're like most people, your home is your most
valuable investment.  When you sell it, you'll want to pocket the biggest possible net gain or profit.  
But, when you sell your home, you need to understand the competition.  There are other home sellers
in your area, and just like in any other competition, mistakes can be costly.  Here are some common
home seller slip-ups we can help you avoid:

  • Overpricing or under-pricing                                                                   
    By setting the price too high, you turn away the best prospects for your home.  By asking too
    little, you'll probably sell faster but net less from the sale.  We can do a comparative market
    analysis and help you set the best price for your home.
  • Selling "as is"                                                                                              
    In the competitive home sale marketplace, you need to show your house at its best.  Your home
    should be in "move-in" condition from the first day it's listed.  We can point out your home's
    chief assets and suggest how to highlight them, as well as help you identify which items need
    improving.
  • Over-improving                                                                                     
    While clearing out clutter, cleaning and repairs are important ways to get your home ready for
    sale, undertaking a major project could cost more money than you would recover from the sale.  
    However, some major repairs, like replacing a roof, should be done if they are needed.
  • Selling it yourself                                                                              
    Although doing your own marketing looks tempting as a way to save money, surveys show self-
    sellers often net less from the sale than sellers who use a real estate agent.  And self-sellers find
    that agents do a lot more than most people think - from bringing qualified buyers to keeping
    things on track to settlement.
  • Failing to offer financial incentives                                                 
    Special options can attract buyers without costing a lot.  Often, incentives like a home warranty
    or paying points or some closing costs can be figured in when setting the price of the home.
  • Ignoring your agent's advice                                                                   
    As experienced professionals, we know what works and what doesn't.  Let's discuss any advice
    you are uncomfortable with or disagree with, and together find the best way to sell your home.
  • Failure to take the first offer seriously
    Often sellers believe that the first offer received will be the first of many.  Sometimes the seller
    wants to hold out for a higher price.  This can be especially true if the offer comes in right after
    the home goes on the market.  Experience often shows that the first offer can be the best offer.  
    The home is most saleable in the beginning of the marketing period while it is the "new house on
    the market".  You may end up "settling" for less later!
  • Choosing the wrong Realtor
    The sale of your home is the most important financial transaction you will be involved in.  A
    contract for the sale of Real Estate is a legally binding document.  An improperly written contract
    can cause the sale to fall through, or cost you money.  You need an experience agent(s) who
    knows the ins and outs fully to explain the contract you are about to sign.  You also want an
    honest Realtor that you feel comfortable with.  Find a Realtor that has a complete marketing
    strategy for your home - not just one that will put it in the MLS and wait for it to sell.  Your
    choice of a Realtor is crucial!

Call or e-mail us when you're thinking about selling your house.  We'll help you avoid costly mistakes.
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