Selling your home can be a hugely rewarding experience if it's done correctly. Unfortunately, I've seen many sellers make these seven common mistakes that can delay the sale or ultimately reduce the final selling price, which is the last thing you want. I'm Lisa Salt with RE/MAX Vernon Salt Fowler, and today I'm going to highlight the top seven pitfalls to avoid when selling your home in Vernon in this dynamic market, along with a bonus tip at the very end that will help you ensure a successful transaction.

1. Overpricing Your Property
One of the most common mistakes sellers make is overpricing their property. In a competitive market, it's tempting to list your home at a high price in the hopes of getting a significant return. You want to get the highest price you can—“I'm not going to give it away,” they say. However, setting the price slightly lower than your goal can actually attract more buyers. It fosters more competition and can potentially drive up the final selling price. Overpricing, on the other hand, can scare away potential buyers, leading to your home sitting on the market longer and ultimately selling for less. Work with your real estate agent to determine a competitive price that reflects current market conditions. Remember, market value is determined by the market—it's what a willing buyer is paying a willing seller.

2. Not Allowing Home Showings
You want as many potential buyers as possible through your home. I know it's a pain, but more buyers mean more offers. If you start restricting access to your home for showings, it can significantly harm the buzz needed around your listing. Buyers want in when they want in. If they can't get in on their schedule, they're off to the next shiny object and will just delete yours off the list. Buyers might also perceive limited access as a sign that something is wrong with the house. Facilitating showings, even if it means stepping out for a while or allowing the use of a lockbox, is crucial. The more accessible your home is, the higher the chances of attracting serious buyers and selling quickly.

3. Ignoring Staging
In today's digital age, professional staging can make a significant difference in how your home is perceived by buyers online. Staged homes look better in photos, and you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Staged furniture helps buyers visualize the potential of each room and creates a welcoming atmosphere that highlights the home's best features. You don't have to buy new furniture or get it professionally staged—sometimes, simply taking out excess items or adding small touches like fresh flowers or new throw pillows can enhance the presentation.

4. Focusing Only on the Highest Offer
While a high offer is tempting, it's not the only factor to consider. Smart sellers weigh various elements such as the buyer's financing terms and potential delays. Often, a slightly lower offer with more favorable conditions might be wiser than a higher one with numerous contingencies. For example, a cash offer might close faster and with fewer complications than one subject to multiple conditions. Evaluate all offers carefully with your agent to make the best decision. The highest offer isn't always the best.

5. Jumping on an Impossibly Perfect Offer
In a competitive market, some buyers might make high bids that seem perfect but carry significant risks. A higher offer might come with contingencies that could delay or potentially derail the sale. Look beyond the offer price and understand the terms and conditions. Contracts must be meticulously prepared to prevent stress during the closing process. Review each offer in detail with your agent to avoid potential complications down the road.

6. Questioning Everything Your Agent Does
Trusting your real estate agent is essential for a smooth selling process. Communication is vital, but questioning every move your agent makes can slow down the process. Realtors have the experience and expertise to guide you through the selling process. Trust their judgment and give them the space to execute their strategy. A good partnership with your agent is key to a successful home sale.

7. Trying to Sell Your House Yourself
Attempting to sell your house without professional guidance can be counterproductive. Selling a home involves marketing, negotiations, and legal paperwork that can be overwhelming. Trusting a professional real estate agent can save you time, stress, and potentially money. Their expertise can help you navigate the market and get the best deal. Micromanaging showings or overselling your property can lead to missed opportunities. Buyers often decide within the first few seconds of walking in, and having the homeowner present can sometimes negatively impact their decision.

Bonus Tip: Stay Informed About Market Conditions
Market conditions can change quickly. What was true a few years ago is not the case now. Sellers sometimes decline worthy offers thinking a better one is just around the corner, anticipating further price increases that aren't coming. It's important to stay informed about market trends. Consult with your agent regularly to understand the latest market trends in your price range and be flexible in your approach.

Avoiding these common pitfalls can help you achieve a successful home sale in Vernon or wherever you may be located. Stay informed, trust your agent, and prioritize your home's presentation. By understanding the current market conditions and being prepared, you can maximize your chances of a smooth and profitable sale.

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About the Author: The article above, Top 7 Home SELLING MISTAKES to Avoid in Vernon BC - BONUS Tip Included, was provided by Lisa Salt, an authority on Vernon BC and area real estate and a leader in the field of real estate blogging and vlogging.  Lisa and her group have helped literally helped thousands of families buy and sell homes since 1993. 

Looking to buy a home in the Vernon/North Okanagan area?  Check out "Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Home" article. It’s free of charge and will save you a ton of time!

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We help people buy and sell real estate in the following Okanagan/Shuswap areas: Vernon, Armstrong, Enderby, Lake Country, Lumby, Westside and Salmon Arm/Shuswap.

Call or Text 250-549-7258 or email webinfo@saltfowler.com