The market is constantly changing and in some areas, homes are sitting a little longer and price reductions are becoming more common.  Making sure you’re not making any mistakes when it comes to increasing your home’s value is definitely increasingly important.  Here are 10 mistakes that could be hurting your home sale or resale value. 

#1 Overpricing
In a changing market especially, testing out the market with a higher price will always end up bad.  Once you overprice it, you will be constantly trying to play catch up with the market.  Buyers will wonder why it’s been on the market so long and you will end up losing out on the buyers that actually are qualified for you home that have already moved on.

#2 Poor Curb Appeal
I often tell my buyer clients to do a drive-by of the property before seeing it if they have time.  If the home’s exterior looks in bad shape and landscaping is unkept, it can give a off-putting first impression which you don’t want.  Sometimes, my clients don’t even want to go inside.  Making sure the exterior is in tip-top shape is important.

#3 Outdated Systems & Appliances
Outdated systems and appliances in a buyer’s mind cost a lot to replace.  It’s also something that is not fun or glamorous to update once you move in.  No one wants to spend money on a new furnace or AC unit.  Showing future buyers you’ve done regular maintenance on the systems or have recently bought new ones goes a long way.

#4 Unkept Neighborhood
Although you can’t do much about the neighborhood, it’s important to realize that if you have several neighbors that haven’t kept up their homes or you are near a power plant or a noisy train track that all those things can have an impact on your home’s resale value.  As a buyer, make sure to review analyze this before buying a home.

#5 Strong Odors
Strong odors can be a big turnoff for future buyers.  They will wonder how to get rid of the smell and it’s another added hurdle for them when buying.  Think of things like pet smells, smoking, strong spices in the kitchen, and musty basement smells.  There are lot of remedies for these things so ask a trusted friend or relative what your home really smells like.

#6 Clutter and Personal Items
You want future buyers to be able to picture themselves in your home.  Removing clutter and personal photos helps with this.  Decluttering is so very important.  It also shows that you take pride in your home and have cared for it.  Along with personal photos, any highly specific decorating style should be removed.  For example, if you have a passion for all things safari, having wall to wall animal prints or bright colors will deter buyers. 

#7 Skipping Major Repairs
If you know there is a major issue wrong with the home like water in the basement due to cracks or a leaky roof, these need to be addressed before listing.  Otherwise, expect a reduction in price and/or a negotiation of its fix during inspection period.  Buyers will always over estimate what is costs to repair something.  Best to do it your way before even listing.

#8 Failing to Stage
Staging is important for selling.  Your agent can help you figure out where your existing furniture should go or recommend using a staging company to bring in some pieces.  Staging is important for not only in person buyer showings but also for pictures online.

#9 Showing Buyers Around
Never stick around for showings.  Buyers like to have their space when looking around.  

#10 Choosing the Wrong Agent
There are many factors that go into choosing the right agent.  You want to make sure they are knowledgeable of the area and have excellent communication skills.