Top 3 Mistakes Today's Sellers Are Making

If you're looking to sell your home, having the right approach and realistic expectations is crucial. However, some sellers haven’t adapted to the current market conditions. They’re overlooking the fact that inventory has increased and buyers are being more selective with their budgets. As a result, these sellers are making costly mistakes.

Here’s a breakdown of the three most common pitfalls sellers are facing—and how working with an expert agent can help you avoid them all.

1. Overpricing the Home

A recent survey by John Burns Real Estate Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) found that real estate agents overwhelmingly agree—the biggest challenge sellers face today is pricing their home correctly (see graph below).

Many sellers set their asking price too high, often without considering current market conditions. If you’re not in tune with local trends, it’s easy to assume that pricing high gives you more room to negotiate—but that strategy can backfire.

Today’s buyers are budget-conscious due to higher mortgage rates, and an overpriced home can push them away before they even step inside. If no one is interested, how can you expect to sell? This is why many sellers end up reducing their price later.

To avoid this pitfall, trust your real estate agent from day one. A knowledgeable agent can analyze recent neighborhood sales and help you price your home competitively from the start.

2. Ignoring Repairs

Another common mistake is neglecting small maintenance issues. A leaky faucet or creaky door might not seem like a big deal, but to buyers, these minor flaws can signal larger, costly problems. This can lead to lower offers or demands for concessions.

As Investopedia warns:

"Sellers who don’t clean and stage their homes are throwing money away. Ignoring small repairs, like a broken doorknob or dripping faucet, can make buyers wonder if bigger, more expensive issues have also been overlooked."

The best approach? Work with your agent to identify necessary fixes before listing. Even minor upgrades can make a big difference in attracting buyers and maximizing your home’s value.

3. Refusing to Negotiate

With high home prices and rising mortgage rates, buyers are more cautious than ever. They may submit lower offers than expected—but rather than taking it personally, focus on the bigger picture: selling your home.

With more inventory on the market, buyers have options—and that gives them leverage. Many will request repairs, closing cost assistance, or other concessions. Being open to these conversations can help you secure a deal without compromising too much.

As U.S. News Real Estate puts it:

"If you receive an offer that’s less than you hoped, be prepared to negotiate. The key to a successful deal is ensuring the buyer also feels like they’re getting value. Offering to cover some closing costs or a small repair credit can help close the sale."

The Biggest Mistake of All? Selling Without an Agent

Notice a pattern? Each of these missteps can be avoided with the guidance of a skilled real estate agent. Trying to navigate the market alone is the biggest mistake a seller can make. An expert agent will help you price your home correctly, prepare it for listing, and negotiate the best deal—so you can sell with confidence.

Bottom Line

Avoiding these common mistakes starts with having a solid strategy—and the right real estate professional by your side. A knowledgeable agent will help you price your home competitively, guide you through necessary repairs, and negotiate effectively to ensure you get the best possible outcome. Selling a home is a major financial decision, and having expert support can make all the difference. Don’t leave your success to chance—connect with a trusted agent today to navigate the process with confidence and avoid costly missteps.