Mistake #7: “Hovering”
Lurking sellers make buyers nervous. Most buyers feel uncomfortable closely inspecting a house in the presence of the owners. Buyers may feel they are intruding and then rush through the showing. They may be hesitant to talk about changes to the home or features they like or dislike. It is easier for buyers to visualize the home being theirs when they have a chance to critique and discuss the home among themselves. If you must be home, try to stay out of the way and answer questions only if asked. Unless there is a really good reason for it, do not ask your agent to be present for every showing. That will limit your showing activity. Most agents want privacy with their buyers and they usually do not want to work around your agent’s schedule.
Mistake #8: Becoming friends with the buyer
It is appropriate, even important, to be friendly, but do not get into long conversations with buyers. Watch what you say when discussing items related to the house and neighborhood. You are no doubt excited about moving. However, buyers might start having second thoughts if you are not careful. A casual statement about your house “being really too small for a growing family” or “the schools are going through some changes”, might be enough innocent chatter to squash a buyer’s interest.
Mistake #9: Not taking the first quick bid
This happens often. The seller gets an offer early on and is suddenly filled with confidence that the house will easily sell and maybe even inspire a bidding war. It feels like standing over a pond packed with hungry fish. If the first offer does not seem that
54
Powered by FlippingBook