We frequently tell sellers what they should do to sell their home.
Considering the things I’ve encountered while showing homes lately, I thought perhaps some advice about what they shouldn’t do is warranted as well. I’ve come up with a hit list.
Sellers, if you really are committed to selling your home, here are some things you shouldn’t do.
1. Don’t stay at home during an open house. Visitors will more than likely avoid the room you are in altogether and not give it a thorough look. It may be uncomfortable for your agent as well.
2. Don’t linger inside during showings. If you can’t be away (pets, babies) then at least step outside or into the garage while your visitors are there. They won’t feel comfortable checking out closet space and cabinet storage with you observing.
3. Don’t skimp on the heating or air conditioning when buyers are coming by. They won’t want to fiddle with your controls, but may leave thinking there are temperature problems.
4. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink. If your family is on the go that often and clean up just won’t get finished, consider paper plates and cups for those early morning meals before you dash out to work for the day.
5. Don’t let a dark home scare someone away. If your home is on the market in the winter months, consider an outside motion detection light. If there are no lights on, it can be pretty tricky to find the lockbox on the side of the house on the water pipe when it’s pitch black outside.
6. Don’t expect that everyone will remove their shoes, even if you have a sign asking them to do so. Ask your agent to place a basket with paper booties by the door. Some shoes aren’t so easy to remove, and folks might not comply. This will be an easier option for them and save wear and tear on your floors.
7. Don’t assume your home smells fresh and clean. We often can’t smell odors we are accustomed to from pets or strong spices and foods. Have a trusted friend or neighbor let you know that it literally passes the smell test.
8. Don’t overprice your home, assuming that someone will always offer less than you’ve asked. That may be true in some cases, but more than likely they won’t come to see it, or they’ll come but won’t make an offer.
9. Don’t expect to gain value for that unpermitted addition you have. Many people will see it as a liability and won’t want to pay more for it.
10. Don’t neglect the swimming pool! I’ve seen too many homes with lovely yards, but a murky, green, or leaf-strewn pool in back. You’re selling the pool too, right? Make it sparkle.
11. Don’t forget to look up when cleaning your home for showings. Dirty ceiling fans and light fixtures don’t show your home in its best light.
12. Don’t hold back information about the property’s condition. If a buyer learns about it after their inspections, they’ll be more likely to ask for a price adjustment. If it’s known in advance, they are more apt to consider that the deficiency is reflected in the asking price.
13. De-cluttering the home. Now that summer is here it's a good time for yard/garage sales.
14. Be very careful with scented candles. What smells good to you can trigger an immmediate negative opinion of the buyer. Vanilla is usually okay but stray away from the rest.
15. Don't smoke in the house.
Considering the buyer’s point of view now may help your work through this transaction more realistically.