Sellers ability to sell their property is not related solely on price, however it does help in negotiations to net the sellers idea goal. As real estate listing agents we guide our sellers in the decision making and hope they will listen to our instruction but many times it falls on deaf ears.
The biggest mistake I see sellers make that can cost them a sale is not having the property available for showings during business hours. Business hours can range between 9 am - 6pm seven days a week and even during the holidays. Sellers should understand if their home is listed it should be ready to show at all times.
I've worked with buyers who ask to see a property on a certain day and certain time only to find out the time isn't going to work with the seller. We understand as listing agents to coach our clients that when a buyer is asking to see their home it might be the only opportunity a buyer will ever have to see that property. I've had serious cash buyers who would say I guess the seller must not be serious lets pass. It all depends on the inventory in the area when one is searching for their dream home.
There is the occasional seller who will not allow a lock box on their home and the buyer agent must make appointment while seller is present, this most definitely could cost them the sale.
Many sellers have situations like children, pets or elderly that might need special attending and that's OK but the listing agent needs to mention in the MLS agent remarks special showing instructions.
Disclosure of property being retained by the seller would be another hot item that could cost sellers the sale. Having in writing what the seller will and will not leave will help to prevent disputes after closing.
Disclosing pertinent information often times could be the listing agents fault for not discussing thoroughly with the seller during the listing agreement how important it is to disclose what stays and doesn't stay. Other disclosure such as pet urine, and known material defects must also be disclosed. I had a couple who didn't disclose pet urine and had used enzymes to cover up the smell and two weeks after closing had to pay the buyers $5,000 to satisfy the undisclosed defect.
Sellers expect their listing agent to guide them so while writing this blog I would say a seller mistake that might cost them the sale is not having the right listing broker.
Comments(17)