So you have finally decided to put your home on the market. You have planned out your first open house, and have the search for new listings, and even created a packing list. Now all you have to do is sit and wait for offers to come in, right?

As the seller, you just may be sabotaging your home sale. Of course, this is the last thing you would want to do. However, one wrong turn or wrong decision can hurt your chances of getting a buyer. The most unsettling part is that you probably have no idea you are doing anything wrong.

Here are some of the ways you might be turning off buyers without even knowing it.

1. Bad colors

When your home is on the market, you want to make it attractive to as many buyers as possible. And while your kitchen painted in your favorite shade of pink shade might be appealing to you, it can buyers off. When a home buyer comes into your house, you would like them to imagine it as their future home. The more difficult it is to imagine, the less likely they are to put an offer.

2. Overload on personal taste

It is not just bold colors you should avoid. Try not to show off too much of your style while your house is on the market. Strange decorations divert the buyers’ attention away from the house itself. If you are ever on the fence, you should think neutral. Try replacing loud patterns with muted patterns. Also put eccentric decorations and personal trinkets in storage prior to your next open house.

3. Bad smells

You may have become nose-blind to pet or cigarette odor. However, home buyers will instantly pick up on odd smells. This is a sure way to drive them away.

If you smoke or used to smoke inside your home, you should know that residual nicotine can still be present in the drapes, carpets, furniture and walls. Pet urine in carpets, rugs, or on baseboards is problematic as well. Vinegar, bleach, water and specially formulated cleaners can fight these smells. You should be expected to do a deep clean before you list your house.

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4. Not flexible enough for private showings

The real estate market moves fairly quick, so if you want to sell your house, you should cater to the schedules of potential buyers. If it’s possible, you should require only a few hours notice before the showing.

It is much easier for buyers to schedule a showing when it is most convenient for them. The sooner a buyer can see your home, the faster they can make an offer. This lessens the chance of them finding a different home.

Also, one thing buyers definitely should not see during a showing is you. When owners are at home during a private showing, it adds a layer of discomfort since buyers do not really feel free in the space. They feel like a  guest in someone else’s home. Ultimately, you want them to feel like it is their home.

Do you have a question about selling your home? Click here to contact the Ryan Grant Team today!

Courtesy of Cuselleration