Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and it’s easy to second-guess your choices along the way. As a real estate expert, I’ve heard plenty of stories about homeowners who looked back on their selling experience with a twinge of regret. If you’re thinking about selling, here are the five most common regrets sellers face—and how you can avoid them for a smoother, more profitable experience.
1. “I Didn’t Hire the Right Realtor”
Not all agents are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can make or break your sale.
- Why it matters: An experienced, proactive realtor understands the local market, prices your home competitively, and markets it effectively. Without the right expertise, your home could sit on the market too long or sell for less than it’s worth.
- How to avoid it: Do your homework! Interview multiple agents, ask about their track record, and make sure they have a proven strategy to sell your home.
2. “I Overlooked Repairs and Updates”
Many homeowners regret skipping small repairs or avoiding low-cost updates that could have boosted their home’s appeal.
- Why it matters: Buyers are quick to notice things like leaky faucets, outdated fixtures, or scuffed walls. These issues can make your home seem poorly maintained, leading to lower offers or a prolonged sale.
- How to avoid it: Before listing, address minor repairs and consider cost-effective updates like fresh paint, modern lighting, or a kitchen facelift. A little effort upfront can go a long way in increasing your home’s value.
3. “I Didn’t Stage My Home”
Some sellers resist staging because they think it’s unnecessary or too expensive, but most regret that decision later.
- Why it matters: Professionally staged homes sell faster and for more money. Staging helps buyers imagine themselves living in the space, which is key to sparking emotional connections.
- How to avoid it: At a minimum, declutter, depersonalize, and rearrange furniture to maximize space. For even better results, work with a professional stager or follow your realtor’s staging recommendations.
4. “I Priced My Home Too High (or Too Low)”
Setting the right price is critical—and it’s one of the biggest sources of seller regret.
- Why it matters: Price your home too high, and it could sit on the market for weeks, forcing you to lower the price later (which looks bad to buyers). Price it too low, and you could leave money on the table.
- How to avoid it: Trust your realtor to provide a competitive market analysis (CMA) that reflects your home’s value based on local trends and recent sales. A well-researched price will attract serious buyers and maximize your return.
5. “I Didn’t Prepare for Showings”
Selling your home means keeping it show-ready at all times—something many sellers underestimate.
- Why it matters: A poorly presented home during showings can turn off buyers, especially if it’s cluttered, dirty, or smells bad.
- How to avoid it: Before listing, commit to keeping your home clean and tidy. Develop a quick cleaning routine, depersonalize your space, and consider hiring a professional cleaner. Most importantly, leave the house during showings so buyers can feel comfortable exploring.
How to Avoid Regret Altogether
The good news? These regrets are entirely preventable with the right preparation and guidance. By partnering with an experienced realtor who understands your goals, you can make confident decisions that lead to a successful sale.
Thinking about selling your home? Let’s connect to create a personalized plan that ensures you get the best possible outcome—no regrets!