Selling a home can be a complex and sometimes stressful process. It’s one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make, and even small missteps can have significant consequences. Unfortunately, many homeowners in Lebanon make common mistakes that can lead to frustration, delays, or even financial losses.
The good news? You can avoid these pitfalls with careful planning and the help of a knowledgeable real estate professional. In this article, we’ll explore eight common mistakes homeowners make when selling their homes and how Brendan Callahan Realtor - Susan Cole Realty Group can help you avoid them to ensure a successful sale.
1. Overpricing Your Home
Setting the right price is crucial when selling a home. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is overpricing their property. While it’s natural to want top dollar, an unrealistic asking price can deter potential buyers and cause your home to sit on the market longer. According to a study by Zillow, homes that are overpriced typically sell for less than those priced correctly from the start. In the Upper Valley region, the average sales price increased by 8.4% in 2024, indicating a healthy market. However, overpricing can still lead to extended time on the market and eventual price reductions.
Why it matters: Homes priced too high receive fewer showings and offers. They may develop a “stale” reputation among buyers, leading to multiple price reductions and weakening your negotiating position.
How we help: At Brendan Callahan Realtor - Susan Cole Realty Group, our agents conduct a comprehensive market analysis to determine your home’s fair market value. We evaluate recent sales in your neighborhood and analyze market trends to set a competitive price that attracts serious buyers and maximizes your return.
2. Neglecting Home Repairs and Maintenance
First impressions matter. A well-maintained home attracts more buyers and fetches a better price. Neglecting essential repairs when selling your home can turn buyers away or result in lower offers. Common issues like a leaky faucet, peeling paint, or a broken door handle can create the impression that your home hasn’t been cared for.
Statistics to note: The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that 75% of buyers prefer move-in-ready homes, and 41% of sellers who make repairs before listing see their home sell faster and for more money. In the Upper Valley, the average days on market increased by 4.3% in 2024, suggesting that buyers are taking more time to make decisions. A well-maintained home can stand out and sell faster in such a market.
How we help: We’ll inspect your home and recommend repairs and upgrades that will boost its appeal. Our team can connect you with reliable contractors to handle everything from minor touch-ups to larger renovations, ensuring your home stands out in the market.
3. Failing to Stage Your Home
Home staging can significantly impact how quickly your home sells and for how much. Staged homes help buyers visualize themselves living in the space, which can make a big difference. According to the Real Estate Staging Association, staged homes sell 73% faster on average than non-staged ones.
Why it matters: Proper staging highlights your home’s best features and minimizes its weaknesses. It also helps your home appear more spacious and inviting in photos and during showings.
How we help: Our team at Brendan Callahan Realtor - Susan Cole Realty Group offers professional home staging services. From decluttering and rearranging furniture to adding stylish decor, we’ll help you create a warm and welcoming space that appeals to buyers.
4. Poor Marketing
In today’s real estate market, effective marketing is key to attracting potential buyers. Simply listing your home online isn’t enough. Without a comprehensive marketing plan, your home could get lost in the shuffle.
Common mistakes:
- Low-quality photos
- Vague or incomplete descriptions
- Limited online presence
How we help: We use a multi-channel marketing strategy to showcase your home. Our approach includes professional photography, compelling property descriptions, and targeted online advertising on major real estate platforms, social media, and local marketing channels. Open houses and community outreach are also part of our strategy to generate buzz and attract qualified buyers.
5. Not Disclosing Property Defects
Transparency is critical when selling a home. Failing to disclose known defects can lead to legal issues down the road. Buyers appreciate honesty, and being upfront about any problems builds trust.
Legal requirements: In most states, sellers are legally obligated to disclose major defects such as foundation issues, mold, or roof damage. Failure to do so can result in costly lawsuits.
How we help: Our agents will guide you through the disclosure process, ensuring you meet all legal requirements while presenting your home in the best light. We’ll help you address any defects proactively so they don’t become deal breakers.
6. Being Unavailable for Showings
Selling your home requires some flexibility. Buyers want to view homes on their schedule, and being unavailable can cause you to miss out on potential offers. In a competitive market, every showing counts.
How we help: At Brendan Callahan Realtor - Susan Cole Realty Group, we’ll coordinate showings around your availability while prioritizing buyer convenience. Our team can also arrange virtual tours and open houses to ensure your home gets the exposure it needs, even when in-person visits aren’t possible.
7. Not Working with a Real Estate Agent
Some homeowners believe they can save money by selling their home on their own (For Sale by Owner or FSBO). However, FSBO properties often sell for less than homes sold with an agent. The NAR reports that the average FSBO home sells for $120,000 less than agent-represented homes.
Challenges of FSBO:
- Limited marketing reach
- Lack of negotiation expertise
- Difficulty managing legal and financial paperwork
How we help: I and our team will handle every aspect of your home sale, from pricing and marketing to negotiations and closing. We’ll ensure you get the best possible outcome while saving you time and stress.
8. Ignoring Feedback from Potential Buyers
Buyer feedback is a valuable tool for identifying what’s working and what needs improvement. Ignoring feedback can result in your home staying on the market longer than necessary.
How we help: We gather feedback from every showing and share it with you, providing actionable advice on how to address buyer concerns. This might involve adjusting your price, staging differently, or making small improvements that have a big impact.
Final Thoughts
Selling your home in the Upper Valley doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By avoiding these common mistakes and working with an experienced real estate professional, you can streamline the process and achieve your goals. At Brendan Callahan Realtor - Susan Cole Realty Group, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way, helping you sell your home quickly and for the best possible price. We can help you navigate the complex real estate market in Lebanon and achieve your real estate goals. Contact us today to learn more. (603) 443-3149
