Top Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home

Laurie Rodriguez
Mar 28
4 min read

By Lubbock and South Plains Realtor, Laurie Rodriguez

Selling a home is a big milestone—and in the competitive South Plains real estate market, even small missteps can cost you time, money, and potential buyers. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or moving up, avoiding these common home selling mistakes can help you make a smooth, profitable transition.

Let’s walk through the top pitfalls sellers face—and how to sidestep them—so you can sell with confidence and get the most from your investment.

Why Avoiding Seller Mistakes Matters 💡🏡

Selling a home involves much more than listing it online and putting up a sign in the yard. A strategic approach can save you stress and ensure you don’t leave money on the table.

💰 Maximize Your Sale Price – Avoid mistakes that lower your home’s perceived value.

⏳ Sell Faster – Well-prepared homes attract more offers and spend less time on the market.

📝 Avoid Legal & Contract Issues – Stay informed to prevent closing delays and headaches.

Top 10 Home Selling Mistakes to Avoid 🚫

1. Overpricing Your Home 💸

Setting the price too high is one of the most common seller mistakes.

Overpriced homes sit on the market longer.
May lead to multiple price drops, which raise red flags.
Work with a local expert (like me!) for accurate market comparisons.

2. Skipping Home Repairs 🛠️

Buyers notice the little things—and they might assume there are bigger problems lurking.

Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and cracked tiles.
Consider a pre-listing inspection to uncover hidden issues.
Minor updates can bring major returns.

3. Neglecting Curb Appeal 🌳

First impressions matter—especially in Lubbock and South Plains neighborhoods.

Trim hedges, mow the lawn, and add fresh mulch.
Repaint the front door and clean up the porch.
A clean exterior = more showings and stronger offers.

4. Using Poor Listing Photos 📸

Buyers often see your home online before ever setting foot inside.

Dark, blurry, or poorly staged photos can turn buyers away.
Professional photography makes a big difference.
Showcase your home’s best features with quality visuals.

5. Being Present During Showings 🚪

Let buyers envision themselves in the home without distractions.

Step out during showings and open houses.
Keep pets secured and clutter minimized.
A relaxed, empty home helps buyers feel comfortable.

6. Not Staging the Home Properly 🛋️

Empty rooms or overstuffed spaces can make it hard to see the home’s potential.

Stage key rooms like the living area, kitchen, and primary bedroom.
Declutter, depersonalize, and add light, welcoming touches.
Highlight your home’s best use of space.

7. Ignoring Odors or Cleanliness Issues 🧼

A clean, fresh-smelling home creates a lasting impression.

Deep clean carpets, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Use neutral air fresheners and open windows when possible.
Avoid cooking strong-smelling foods before a showing.

8. Taking Negotiations Personally 🤝

Selling your home can be emotional, but staying objective is key.

Be open to feedback and flexible with offers.
Trust your Realtor to guide negotiations.
Focus on the end goal: a successful closing.

9. Hiding Problems from Buyers 🔍

Transparency builds trust—and avoids legal trouble later.

Disclose known issues honestly on the seller's disclosure.
Repairs can be negotiated; surprises break deals.
Honesty pays off at the closing table.

10. Choosing the Wrong Realtor 😬

The right agent makes all the difference.

Choose someone who knows your local market.
Communication, marketing, and negotiation skills are key.
With me, you’re not just a client—you’re a priority!

Selling Smart Adds Real Value 📈

Avoiding these mistakes means less stress, faster sales, and a better return on your investment. With the right Realtor by your side, you’ll have expert guidance at every step of the process.

🔹 Maximize profit – Smart selling strategies lead to stronger offers.

🔹 Minimize surprises – Avoid last-minute obstacles and delays.

🔹 Enjoy the journey – Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Communities I Proudly Serve 🌾

As your Lubbock and South Plains Realtor with Key & Slate Real Estate Group, I proudly serve: Lubbock, Abernathy, Brownfield, Buffalo Springs, Crosbyton, Denver City, Farwell, Floydada, Hale Center, Lamesa, Levelland, Littlefield, Muleshoe, New Deal, New Home, Olton, Plains, Plainview, Post, Ralls, Ransom Canyon, Seagraves, Seminole, Silverton, Slaton, Snyder, Spur, Sudan, Sundown, Tahoka, Tulia, and Wolfforth.

Explore More with Key & Slate Real Estate Group 🗝️

📌 LaurieRodriguez-KeyandSlate.com – Personalized real estate services for Lubbock & South Plains.

📌 LainieEilenberger.com – Explore listings, resources, and tips for buyers and sellers.

📌 Key & Slate Real Estate Group on Keller Williams – Meet the team and view homes for sale.

📌 One Ford Road Community – Explore upscale homes in a premier Lubbock neighborhood.

📌 Lainie Eilenberger on YouTube – Virtual home tours, local market tips, and more!

Ready to Sell? Let’s Do It the Smart Way! 🏡✨

Selling your home is a big move—don’t go it alone. I’ll help you avoid the pitfalls, highlight your home’s best features, and guide you to a successful sale.

As your trusted Lubbock and South Plains Realtor with Key & Slate Real Estate Group, I’m here to make selling simple, strategic, and stress-free.

📞 Contact me today and let’s sell your home the right way!