4 Mistakes Home Sellers Can Avoid

Depending on the circumstances, selling a home in Sarasota, Florida can be an exciting (you get to use your equity) but challenging (everyone wants a deal) endeavor.

To ensure a successful and stress-free sale, it is essential to avoid common pitfalls. In this comprehensive guide, I highlight the most frequent missteps and provide tips to help navigate the Sarasota real estate market with confidence.

1. Neglecting Pre-Listing Preparations:

One of the most common mistakes sellers make is failing to adequately prepare their home before listing it. Neglecting pre-listing preparations such as decluttering, deep cleaning, and even staging can significantly impact the appeal and perceived value of your property. You are selling a lifestyle. If you have a pool, highlight the convenience with a basket of freshly rolled beach towels or set up a lemonade tray. Think about the best parts of living in your home, and bring them to the surface.

2. Incorrectly Pricing the Home:

Setting the right price for your home is crucial to attract qualified buyers. Many sellers make the mistake of overpricing and their homes remain on the market until they become stale. People begin to doubt its value.

In the minds of a seller, though, underpricing can result in leaving money on the table. I have had success pricing the home at exactly what it’s worth. In fact, this leads to more offers and even selling it before it goes on the market. Most of the homes that qualified buyers are seeing are overpriced, so a perfectly priced property stands out and gets the most attention.

I can do a free market value for you to help you. Just reach out to me requesting one at Forest.Balderson@cbrealty.com or visit ForestBalderson.com.

Market Note: Right now in Sarasota the demand is high, and we just saw a lot of homes go on the market. According to Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner, Sarasota is registering approximately 1300 new voters per month. Still, our local real estate market, in general, is seeing lower priced homes sell for a little more than they might in a different market, while the luxury market seems to be negotiating down some.

3. Inadequate Marketing and Promotion:

To maximize exposure and reach potential buyers, it is essential to implement a comprehensive marketing strategy. Many sellers make the mistake of solely relying on traditional methods like yard signs and newspaper ads. In today's digital age, leveraging online platforms, professional photography, virtual tours, and social media marketing are critical. I suggest collaborating with a company like MoneyShotSRQ.com for media marketing.

4. Failing to Disclose Property Issues:

Transparency is key when selling a home. Failing to disclose known property issues can lead to legal complications and damage your reputation as a seller. Be upfront about any past or present issues, such as structural problems, water damage, or previous repairs.

Providing potential buyers with accurate information allows them to make informed decisions and builds trust throughout the transaction.

Selling a home in Sarasota can be a smooth and successful process if you avoid common mistakes in pitfalls. Incorporating these tips into your selling strategy will not only attract more qualified buyers but also ensure a seamless and profitable transaction.

For a free online pricing tool --> Click here. (It will not collect your personal information!)

Forest Balderson is a REALTOR®️ with Coldwell Banker downtown Sarasota. He has a BA in Creative Writing from Eckerd College. He serves as vice chair of the RASM REALTORS®️ Charitable Foundation fundraising committee.