The first no-no in this category is “hovering.” While you might be tempted to hang around buyers while they’re checking out your home, beware: lurking sellers make buyers nervous and unlikely to make an offer. They’ll feel like they’re intruding in “your” home, and then they’ll rush through to avoid feelings of discomfort. It’s much easier for buyers to feel comfortable asking questions and to visualize themselves living in the home when they’re free to walk through and discuss on their own terms, without sellers hovering. Whenever possible, don’t be home for showings. If you’re selling your home without an agent, this is impossible—yet another reason to make sure you hire a qualified real estate agent, who will arrange showings with the buyer’s agent, so the buyer can look around and discuss in peace. The second no-no is becoming too friendly with buyers. You’d be surprised how many homeowners try to get a little too friendly in an effort to make a deal—but this tactic almost always backfires. While it’s important to be professional and courteous, don’t let the personal nature of someone being in your home lead to long, unnecessary discussions. Personality conflicts can easily cloud judgment. You could unintentionally say too much and risk turning off a buyer. Remember, this could be their new home. Comments like “the house is too big for a young couple,” “the neighbors are difficult,” or “the neighborhood is changing for the worse” can quickly dampen interest and hurt a potential sale.
MISTAKE #9. UNDERESTIMATING CLOSING COSTS
Don’t underestimate the closing costs involved in the sale. Many homeowners nearing retirement are guilty of this, simply because it’s been so long since they last sold a home. Far too often, sellers consider only the asking price of their home without factoring in
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