While it’s often buying a home that can seem stressful, selling can be just as challenging. In both scenarios, the more prepared you are when you start the process, the smoother it tends to go. For sellers, there are some common mistakes that can often make the process more difficult. If you’re planning to sell your Des Moines home, make sure that none of these mistakes get in the way of your success:

Underestimating the Costs

Selling a home isn’t free, and sellers who fail to estimate the associated costs can be in for an unpleasant surprise. From staging and maintenance to closing fees and taxes, sellers need to be prepared to spend a bit during the selling process. When you prepare and estimate these costs ahead of time, you’re able to better plan for the expenses and they won’t catch you off guard.

Going it Alone

Listing your home without the help of an agent can make for a challenging process. While it’s not always necessary to list with an agent, most of the time, it’s a wise decision. Having someone in your corner to answer questions and help you navigate the complexities of the process is a major advantage. There are plenty of unexpected hurdles that can come up when selling a home, and a good agent will be prepared to help you navigate them.

Neglecting Routine Maintenance and Small Repairs

Sellers who try to cover up damage or neglect necessary maintenance can encounter some real problems when selling their home. Whether it’s during an open house or in an inspection, these issues will always surface. Taking care of things in advance and being thorough with your repairs can help you avoid any snags in the process. Doing a detailed walk-through of your home is a great place to start. Try to take on the perspective of a potential buyer to spot anything that might need your attention.

Springing for Fancy Upgrades

Some sellers, in attempts to make their home sell faster or for a higher price, will invest in high-end upgrades. This can be a risky move. While sometimes the upgrades can pay off, other times they can be a waste of money. Going for quality, practical upgrades tends to be the safest way to go. For example, replacing dated or damaged kitchen appliances might be a worthwhile investment, while elaborate landscaping or stylized lighting fixtures may not change the speed or price of the sale.

Are you selling your Des Moines home? Have you encountered any of these common mistakes? What are your strategies to avoid them? I’d love to hear your thoughts.