Mistake 1: Overpricing your property
It’s tempting to aim high, but pricing your home above its true market value can backfire. Even if you’ve done your research, ignoring market trends will reduce interest.
For example, if your property is realistically worth £600,000, listing it at £630,000 may put off potential buyers. Pricing it closer to £595,000 will attract more viewings and create a sense of urgency.
Around 70% of buyer interest happens within the first three weeks on the market. If your home lingers, it can appear ‘stale’, forcing price cuts later on.
Key point: You can’t really underprice your home if you’re selective with offers, but overpricing often leads to more time on the market and lost money. Which? reports that UK sellers lose over £4 billion annually due to overpricing.
Mistake 2: Choosing the cheapest estate agent
Lowest fees don’t always mean best results. Agents who charge less, often achieve lower sale prices, which can cost you thousands more than you save on fees.
Top agents consistently secure between 99% and 100% of the asking price, while average agents get closer to 97%. On a £600,000 property, that’s a £12,000 difference.
Would you rather pay a 1% fee and get 98% of the sale, or a 2% fee and get 100%?
Pro tip: Choose an agent based on their proven track record, marketing strategy and negotiation skills — not just their commission rate or valuation figure.
Mistake 3: Assuming your home will sell itself
Just because friends or neighbours express interest, it doesn’t mean you’ll get your asking price. Private deals often lead to compromises and can strain relationships.
Selling on the open market:
• Creates competition among buyers
• Maximises your final offer
• Keeps negotiations professional
A skilled agent can manage this process smoothly to protect your interests and attract serious buyers.
Mistake 4: Rejecting early offers too quickly
Don’t dismiss the first offer out of hand — it’s often from a motivated buyer. Early offers give you negotiating room and insight into the market.
Respond professionally: “We appreciate your offer, but we’re aiming for offers around £X.”
Consider more than just price:
• Is the buyer chain-free?
• How large is the deposit?
• How motivated is the buyer to complete?
Remember: 70% of buyer interest happens in the first few weeks, so early engagement is crucial.
Mistake 5: Being too stuck on your price
It’s common to set a minimum price and refuse to budge. However, being flexible could save you money overall — allowing you to buy your next home sooner or negotiate better terms. Focus on your ultimate goal – whether that’s moving quickly, downsizing or upgrading – rather than holding firm on a specific number.
Mistake 6: Thinking “I’m not in a rush”
Sellers who delay or aren’t fully committed lose bargaining power. The longer a property sits on the market, the more buyers gain the upper hand. Data from Homeowners Alliance shows that homes sold within 12 days often exceed asking price, while those on the market for over four weeks typically sell for less.
If you want to move by August, for example, work backwards:
• Allow four to six weeks to find a buyer
• Eight to 12 weeks for conveyancing and completion
• List no later than March or April
Bottom line: The best time to sell is when you’re ready to proceed, not when you’re just testing the waters.
Mistake 7: Ignoring the market
Property markets rise and fall with economic shifts, seasons and buyer demand. What’s in demand one month may be overlooked the next – and forming opinions based on outdated or irrelevant data can lead to poor decisions. To succeed, you need expert guidance backed by current, local market data. Conditions vary not just by region, but sometimes even street by street – especially with factors like HS2 or local developments
impacting demand.
Takeaway: Our expert agents understand real-time market trends, what’s selling now, and where your buyers are coming from. We have qualified staff, ready to guide you with clear, informed advice.
Mistake 8: Not planning for the unexpected
Moving is one of life’s most stressful events — and sadly, unexpected situations can arise. We’ve seen cases where a sale was disrupted due to illness or loss, leaving loved ones with tough decisions.
Having a Power of Attorney makes a huge difference. It allows someone you trust to act on your behalf if you’re unable to, reducing stress and confusion during difficult times.
It’s also wise to set up a Will and consider financial or tax advice while you’re in control and thinking clearly. Since you’ll likely be working with a solicitor for your move, it’s the perfect time to get everything sorted.
Takeaway: Organise your Power of Attorney and Will during the move — it’s practical, efficient and gives peace of mind to you and your family.
Your selling checklist
Avoid:
• Overpricing your home
• Selecting the cheapest agent without checking results
• Assuming the sale will happen without effort
• Being fixated on a set price
• Waiting indefinitely for a better offer
• Listing too early without a plan
Do:
• Price your property competitively
• Present your home to impress
• Agree on a firm launch date
• Organise block viewings to generate buzz
• Request written offers only
• Keep your eye on your moving goal
At The Wilkinson Partnership, we help you avoid costly selling mistakes through the power of experience. As an award-winning agency with strong values, we guide you through pricing, marketing and negotiation. Our trusted network — from solicitors to removals — ensures a smooth process.
Contact us for a no-obligation chat to find out how we can help you.
01296 712717
winres@qualityhomes.co.uk
