4 Mistakes To Avoid When Selling Your House

Selling a house in the current market can be a bit scary for home owners. The market is flooded with properties, buyers face difficulty securing financing and many people are simply not interested in making a big investment in the current economy. Unfortunately if you find yourself in a position where delaying the sale of your house until more these conditions improve, you will have to learn what mistakes to avoid in order to get your home sold quickly. Here are a few of the common mistakes sellers make that prevent a quick sale.

• Letting emotion get in the way- While it is not uncommon for people to live in several different residences throughout the span of their life, there are certain houses that we truly call home. Whether you are selling the house where you grew up or the home in which you raised your own children, it is important to avoid letting your emotional attachment to your home get in the way of sale. This means if a potential buyer comments on renovations or heaven forbid-demolition during the walk through, remember that once you sell the house it becomes their home to do with what they wish. The only thing that you should consider from potential buyers is their offer, not their intentions.

• Setting the right price- It can be challenging to set the right price in the current economy and housing market. Now more than ever it is important to look at your house objectively and compare it to other properties currently on the market. If your home is priced similar or higher than the house down the street that hasn’t sold in the past few months, chances are your price is going to turn off potential buyers as well.

• Failing to showcase or stage your house- Some people are in such a rush to sell their home that they put it on the market “as is” without putting the time, energy or money into small repairs or renovations that would easily pay for themselves ten times over. Just as you would probably prefer to buy a product in good condition, so does a potential homeowner. Small repairs, renovations and the proper staging of your home can make the difference between an offer or watching a potential buyer walk away.

• Pets- There is no doubt that we are a nation of pet lovers. Millions of houses are the homes to cats, dogs, birds and various other household pets. While you may love your pet, potential buyers may not share the same view. Even the cleanest cats and dogs can leave behind an odor in addition to hair, dander and other evidence of their presence in your home. Whenever possible, consider having your pets visit with a trusted friend or relative while preparing your house for showing. Consider having your home professionally cleaned as the dander from pets is a common allergen which can “stick” to fabrics and other surfaces for up to six months after the pet is removed from the property.

These are just a few of the common mistakes sellers are making in the current market. It is important to remember that unlike a few years ago when sellers had the luxury of picking between several bids or holding out for a better offer, homes today are languishing on the market. By making every effort to prepare your home and having realistic expectations you are will be more likely to find a buyer for you house.