10 Dos and Don'ts for Home Sellers

The experts from Bought & Sold explain what to do (and what not to do) when selling a home.

Related To:

5 Dos

1. Consult your real estate agent before prepping your home for the market. If you just start making changes, you may be focusing on things that are not as important as others.

2. Make sure your agent will have a strong online presence. The majority of house hunters begin their search on the Internet and then narrow down which ones to actually visit.

3. Be certain your agent is knowledgeable about the area. He or she should have a good understanding of the local community, schools, recreation and politics to share with potential buyers.

4. Feature professional color photos of your home. This is as important for the Internet listing as it is for the printed brochures. The brochure should also include a detailed floor plan.

5. Have a clear understanding of the selling process. Familiarize yourself with the typical marketing time in your area, what to expect with a home inspection and any hot-button items that could be of concern. Also, be familiar with the contract process, attorney review, mortgage contingency, deposit escrows and closing time frames.

5 Dont's

1. Don't just go with the agent who tells you your house is worth the most. Conduct some research to verify the pricing, and consider looking at the competition.

2. Don't just assume that the agent who sold you your house will be a good fit on the selling side. Interview more than one person to find out what each has to offer.

3. Don't ignore offers that don't meet your asking price. By not countering even low offers, you could easily discourage what may ultimately be a good offer.

4. Don't assume that your agent works full-time. Many do not, so be sure to ask.

5. Don't just accept everything your agent says. Get it in writing. Make sure he or she offers a written marketing plan with which you agree. Also, understand that once you sign, you are locked in to a legal contract for the term agreed upon.

Next Up

10 Tips for Decorating Your Home Office

Work in style in a beautiful and functional home office.

25 Brands You Didn’t Know You Can Shop on Amazon

Take advantage of fast, free shipping — and returns — while still buying our favorite bedding and linens, appliances, kitchenware and more.

Talk to a Toolman: Q&A With Chip Wade

Should you hire a pro or do that home repair yourself? HGTV Magazine asks Elbow Room’s Chip Wade to weigh in on five common questions.

Is Ductless Heating and Cooling Right for You?

Considering going duct-free to heat or cool your space? Get the lowdown on when these systems are the right choice and what to expect when you install.

The 7 Principles of Universal Design and Why They're Important

Are you remodeling or building a home to accommodate people of differing needs? Universal design can help.

Quick Tips for Home Organization

Try these quick home organization tips for maintaining a clutter-free home from basement to attic.

Black Spots on Succulents

Sunburns and fungus and virus, oh my. Here’s what to do when black spots spoil your succulents.

9 Keys to Success for Caring for Happy Houseplants

Learn how to keep your indoor plants looking good with these easy maintenance tips.

Deter Deer in the Garden

Learn how to keep deer from destroying your landscape and backyard garden.

Swedish Death Cleaning: It's Not as Grim as You Might Think

Okay, a little less grim. But a lot less grime.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.