Overpricing From the Start
This is the #1 mistake sellers make.
It’s tempting to “try high and see what happens,” but here’s what actually happens:
You miss your strongest buyers during the first few days
Your home sits longer
You lose negotiating power
Buyers assume something is wrong
You may end up selling for less than you would’ve with the right price
In our area, the first 48–72 hours are everything.
Pricing it right from day one always pays off.
Skipping Simple Repairs
Loose doorknobs, peeling paint, broken blinds, loose railings, stained carpet, these seem small, but buyers notice. And in their minds, small issues = bigger unseen problems.
Most repairs cost very little compared to the peace of mind they give buyers.
Fixing the little things strengthens your position and can help prevent long inspection negotiations later.
Not Preparing the Home Before Photos
Online photos are your home’s first showing.
If they’re dark, cluttered, or unprepared, buyers simply scroll right past.
Common mistakes include:
-
Counters full of items
-
Bulky furniture blocking spaces
-
Messy rooms
-
Poor lighting
-
Dirty floors or windows
A few hours of prep can make a dramatic difference, especially in listing photos.
Letting Emotions Drive Decisions
Sellers often price based on how they feel about their home, not the data.
You might love your upgrades, you might know the memories you made there… but buyers only see what the market supports.
Emotions are normal, but they shouldn’t drive pricing or negotiations.
That’s why having an agent who can bring calm, realistic guidance is huge.
Turning Down Showings
When your home is on the market, every showing counts.
Saying “no” too often means:
Fewer potential buyers
Less competition
Longer time on market
Lower offers
It’s inconvenient, but temporary, and the faster we get people in, the faster we get your home sold.
Thinking “Clean Enough” Is Clean Enough
A quick tidy isn’t the same as a deep clean.
Buyers want a home that feels fresh. That includes:
Baseboards
Windows
Appliances
Bathroom grout
Flooring
Ceiling fans
Light fixtures
A sparkling clean home makes buyers feel comfortable and confident.
Ignoring Curb Appeal
In NE NC & Coastal VA, where porches, yards, and drive-up appeal matter, the outside sets the tone.
Sellers often forget that buyers decide how they feel before they even walk in.
Simple improvements work wonders:
Fresh mulch
Trimmed bushes
Swept porch
Clean exterior
A healthy lawn
Updated porch lights
Your yard is your home’s first impression, make it a good one.
Being Unprepared for the Inspection
Inspections can feel scary, but they don’t have to be.
The biggest mistakes sellers make here are:
Not fixing obvious issues beforehand
Panicking over normal findings
Refusing reasonable repair requests
Not understanding what’s “common” vs. “serious”
I’ll walk you through this stage so you know exactly what to expect, and how to respond.
Hiring the Wrong Agent
Not all agents approach selling the same way.
Some list your home… Others actually market it.
The right agent should:
Know your local market inside and out
Communicate clearly
Guide you through every step
Protect your interests
Price strategically
Negotiate fiercely
Give honest advice (not just what you want to hear)
Hiring the Wrong Agent
Not all agents approach selling the same way.
Some list your home… Others actually market it.
The right agent should:
Know your local market inside and out
Communicate clearly
Guide you through every step
Protect your interests
Price strategically
Negotiate fiercely
Give honest advice (not just what you want to hear)
Selling Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Most of these mistakes are easy to avoid, especially when you have someone walking beside you who knows the local market and understands what buyers want in Northeastern NC and Coastal VA.
If you’re thinking about selling, I’d love to guide you through the process and help you get the best possible result.
Whenever you’re ready, just reach out.
