It’s wasted effort to show your home to someone who can’t buy it. An example is the seller who spent two weeks preparing his home for an acquaintance who wanted to buy his home. The seller spent $1,000 removing an old shed and met with the prospect several times to discuss price and terms. It was well into the process when the seller found out the prospect couldn’t qualify for a loan. Real estate agents spend considerable effort weeding out nonqualified and unqualified home shoppers.
“HOVERING”
Lurking sellers make buyers nervous. Whenever possible, don’t be home when showing. This is impossible or impractical if you’re selling the home yourself, though. Buyers may feel they’re intruding and then rush through. They could be hesitant to talk about changes to the home or features they don’t like. They’ll feel uncomfortable closely inspecting the house in front of you. It’s easier for buyers to visualize themselves in the home when they’re able to walk through and discuss it on their own. If you can avoid it, don’t ask your listing agent to be present for showings. That will limit your activity. Buyer’s agents want privacy with their buyers, and they usually aren’t able to work around your agent’s schedule.
NOT TAKING THE FIRS G THE FIRST QUICK BID
This happens repeatedly. The seller gets a bite early on and is suddenly filled with confidence that the house will easily sell and maybe even get involved in a bidding war. It feels like you’re standing over a pond packed with hungry fish. The first offer doesn’t seem great and you naturally assume there must be bigger, juicier fish to be had. So, you throw the not-so-small- after-all fish back in. Big mistake. That little guy is often the “catch of the day.”
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