The good news? These slip-ups are easy to avoid when you know what to look out for. Here are four of the biggest seller mistakes, and how the right real estate agent can help you steer clear of them.

1. Overpricing Your House

It’s natural to want top dollar for your home—especially if you’ve poured time, energy, and love into it. But in today’s shifting market, setting the price too high can backfire.

As Investopedia explains:

“Setting a list price too high could mean your home struggles to attract buyers and stays on the market for longer.”

When a home lingers on the market, you may have to make price cuts later, which can make buyers wonder what’s wrong with the property.

How an agent helps: They’ll run a comparative market analysis, looking at recent sales in your neighborhood, your home’s condition, and current market trends. That way, you can price your home competitively from the start—attracting serious buyers and possibly multiple offers.

2. Spending Money on the Wrong Upgrades

It’s true: with more homes for sale today, sellers may need to put in a little extra effort to stand out. But that doesn’t mean you should sink money into big renovations that won’t pay off.

How an agent helps: A local pro knows which upgrades actually matter to buyers in your area. They’ll help you focus on the improvements with the best return—like fresh paint, curb appeal, or minor repairs—while steering you away from projects that won’t add value. They’ll also make sure your home’s best features shine in the listing photos.

3. Refusing To Negotiate

With more inventory available, buyers have options—and that means they may ask for concessions.

U.S. News notes:

“If you’ve received an offer for your house that isn’t quite what you’d hoped it would be, expect to negotiate . . . consider offering to cover some of the buyer’s closing costs or agree to a credit for a minor repair the inspector found.”

How an agent helps: They’ll guide you through the give-and-take, explain what’s reasonable, and help you find a win-win solution. Sometimes a small compromise can be the key to keeping the deal moving and getting you to the closing table faster.

4. Skipping Research When Hiring an Agent

Here’s a surprising stat: according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 81% of sellers choose the first agent they meet.

That means many skip doing their homework—like checking reviews, sales history, or interviewing multiple agents. But this decision can make or break your selling experience.

How an agent helps (when you pick the right one): The best agents bring proven experience, strong marketing skills, and local expertise. They’ll help you avoid the mistakes above, maximize your home’s value, and make the process smoother from start to finish.

Bottom Line

Selling your house doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is working with a trusted real estate professional who can help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your sale.

👉 Thinking about selling? Reach out to a local agent today so you can start your next chapter with confidence.