What not to do when putting your home on the market

We devote a lot of time in this space – and rightly so – to talking about the things you should do when selling your home.

But that’s just one side of the equation.

Hopefully, if you’ve made the decision to sell, you’re working with an experienced REALTOR®. No doubt, he or she has suggestions on what to do. But as an article at Rismedia points out, there are things not to do. Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial. Here are a few considerations.

Don’t overdo things Naturally, making improvements can help your investment. And updating the appliances or replacing that discolored cabinet in the bathroom are all great ideas. However, it’s important not to over-improve, or make improvements that are hyper-specific to your tastes.

What do I mean by that? Well, not everyone wants a “pimped out finished basement,” in Rismedia’s words, equipped with a wet bar and lifted stage for their rock and roll friends to jam out on. Nor does everyone want an over-the-top Man Cave.

What if your buyers are family oriented and want a basement space for their kids to play in? Make any needed fixes to your space, but don’t go above and beyond—you may lose money doing so.

Don’t over-decorate Overdecorating is just as bad as over-improving. You may love the look of lace and lavender, or be crazy about green, but your potential buyer may enter your home and cringe. When prepping for a sale, neutralize your decorating scheme so it’s more universally palatable and thereby gives you a broader range of potential buyers.

Don’t hang around So, your agent calls to let you know they will be bringing buyers by this afternoon. That’s your cue to exit stage right. Buyers want to imagine themselves in your space, not be cornered by you in your space.

Trust me on this, it’s awkward for them to go about judging your home while you stand just a few feet away looking for validation. Get out of the house, take the kids with you, and if you can’t leave for whatever reason, at least go sit in the backyard. (On the other hand, if you’re buying a home and not selling, then making it personal is the way to go, especially when writing your offer letter. Everyone loves a little flattery.)

Don’t take things personally. Real estate is a business, but buying and selling homes is very, very emotional. However, when selling your home, try your very best not to take things personally. When a buyer lowballs you or says they will need to replace your 1980s decor with something “more modern,” try not to be offended.

And if you’re not sure what not to do? Check with your REALTOR®.