Selling Soon? Avoid These 5 Expensive Mistakes

Thinking of selling your home? You’ve probably already asked yourself the big question: “What’s it worth?”

But here’s the smarter question: “What will it actually sell for?”

The truth is, your final sale price isn’t just about your home's condition or what your neighbor’s house sold for. It comes down to the decisions you make before your home ever hits the market. And according to new research from Zillow, many sellers are still making costly missteps.

Let’s break down 5 of the most common mistakes;  and what to do instead so you can sell smarter and profit more:

1. Spending Big on the Wrong Upgrades

Everyone wants their home to shine, especially when buyers are scrolling online. But 23% of sellers think adding square footage is the best way to boost value — and that’s rarely true.

Instead, focus on low-cost, high-impact improvements: fresh paint, clean landscaping, and updated lighting. These give your home a refreshed feel without draining your wallet.

Pro Tip: Before taking on major renovations, talk with your agent. They’ll help you choose the updates buyers in your market actually care about.

2. Ignoring Screen Appeal 

Yes, curb appeal still matters — but in today’s market, screen appeal wins.

Most buyers will scroll past your home before they ever schedule a showing. That’s why your photos, videos, and 3D tours need to shine.

Invest in pro listing media: wide-angle shots, high-res images, and interactive floor plans. You’re not just selling a house — you’re marketing a story.

3. Hiring the First Agent Without Doing Homework

Selling your home is a big deal — and surprisingly, 1 in 4 sellers don’t research or interview their agent.

That’s like hiring a lawyer without checking their reviews. The right agent knows your local market, has a sharp marketing strategy, and isn’t afraid to give honest advice.

Interview more than one. Check track records. Ask hard questions. Your listing agent is your biggest asset in this process.

4. Spotlighting the Wrong Features

Think every buyer’s dreaming of an open floor plan? You’re not alone—nearly half of homeowners do. But here’s the twist: homes with open layouts actually sell for less than expected, according to Zillow.

What does drive higher sale prices? Natural materials. Think: white oak floors, walnut cabinets, soapstone counters. Yet only 9% of sellers realize these details can boost your sale price by up to 3.5%.

Bottom line: It’s not just about what your home offers—it’s about how you position it. A great agent will know what today’s buyers in your area are really looking for and how to make your listing description work harder.

5. Hiding Problems and Hoping for the Best

Let’s keep it real: trying to cover up known issues—like water damage, pests, or foundation cracks—isn’t just risky... it’s usually illegal.

More than half of homeowners believe staying quiet might help their home sell faster. But in reality? Inspections uncover the truth, buyers lose trust, and deals fall apart.

The smarter move? Be upfront. Disclose known problems early, and let your agent guide you on pricing and positioning the home honestly. It builds trust, avoids surprises, and often leads to smoother, stronger offers.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home isn’t about crossing your fingers and hoping for the best — it’s about strategy. Success comes from smart prep, standout presentation, and making decisions that position your home to win.  The upside? Even small moves — like picking the right paint color, investing in professional photos, or highlighting the features buyers care about most — can have a big impact on your bottom line.

With the right guidance and game plan, you can sidestep common mistakes and walk away knowing you maximized every dollar from your sale.