Potential Pitfalls to Avoid When Putting Your Home on the Market

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Selling your home is a major milestone, to say the least. It’s critical to plan in advance to avoid any possible setbacks during the home sale process. With decades of experience in real estate, I’ve advised thousands of clients on how to stay clear of these common mistakes while preparing their home for the market:

• Setting an unrealistic selling price: Of course, you’re going to be biased about your home. That’s just human nature at work. However, it is important to take all emotions out of the transaction and set a sale price that directly reflects the value of the property. Trust me, smart pricing is a major factor in initiating a smooth transaction.

• Forgetting about competitors: Before putting your house on the market, make sure to check out similar homes in your area. Look from an outsider’s perspective at what's working for other sellers. By doing this homework, you will find a way to gain a competitive advantage so that buyers will choose your house over others.

• Skimping on listing photos: Potential buyers look for homes online, so it's in your best interest to make sure you have as many clear photos and videos as possible that capture the beauty of your home. Hire an agent who doesn't skimp on photos and has vetted the best photographers in the industry. Be aware that some agents will use a “bargain” package that only allows for 25 photos. You want to make sure there are many options to choose from.

• Failing inspection: Nothing is worse than getting caught off guard by a failed inspection when you’re so far into the selling process. For example, if your septic tank fails inspection, it is an eight-week process to get a new one. That’s a two-month delay in getting your house sold! I often recommend a pre-inspection where a home inspector comes into your house before putting it on the market and lets you know of potential issues that may arise. By having this knowledge beforehand, you can eliminate the unpleasant element of surprise and address the issues before listing the house.

At the end of the day, you want your home sold as quickly and easily as possible. This process isn’t easy - it takes a lot of time, money, and energy, but when you approach the process wisely, it will result in a great return.

About Maryanne Elsaesser

Maryanne Elsaesser is known for individualized strategic planning and solving complex matters with calmness. Her clients say she is a "brilliant negotiator," tenacious, helpful, smart, creative, focused and has an amazing ability to read people. Consistent hard work puts Maryanne in the top 1% of brokers in the country. Maryanne is well-versed in contractual elements and understands the intricacies of navigating the most profitable net gain in each transaction. She can be reached at 551.206.9264 or maryanne.elsaesser@gmail.com.

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