6 mistakes to avoid while selling your home in a crowded market...

1. Do not believe your home is "the exception".
In market where the average sales price has dipped, even just ever-so-slightly, believing your home is the exception to the rule and asking for top dollar is a mistake. Price the property at or below comparable homes in the area.

2. Not scouting out your competition.
Sellers should get a first-hand look at the nearby homes that are also up for sale. "Check out their open houses. Look at the houses in your homes same price range so you know, right away, what your "competition" really is. If those homes are "better" adjust your price to reflect the differences or make changes to your home to make yours better. Be sure you aren't fooling yourself. Be honest with yourself. No matter how much it might sting, look at the competitions homes as well as your own with as much honesty as possible.

3. Not Preparing your property for the market.
Buyers have many hoems to chose from these days. Ensure Your home is in tip-top condition for showings. That means making any and all home repairs, ensuring that the indoor and outdoor portions of the property are immaculate, and removing clutter.

4. Being present during open houses.
It's important for the sellers to be away from the home during open houses, as their presence can be unnerving to would-be buyers. If you have items you feel need "protecting" like collectibles or jewelry, those should be all cleaned out of the home and put away prior to ANY showings or listing of the home (including guns, personal papers, medications, etc...)

5. Taking negotiations personally.
The negotiation process can be tough on sellers because it is a fine line between getting the buyers to feel like they "got a good deal" and the sellers feel like they "aren't giving their house away." Many buyers need concessions such help with closing costs. Although such requests might be irksome, it's important that sellers consider it normal and part of a business transaction. It is not meant to be personal. Buyers are purchasing as carefully as they can and trying to pay as little as they can.

6. Sneering at offers: Even if you aren't crazy about a buyer's offer, don't dismiss it right away. You need to be willing to negotiate with anyone and everyone who puts in an offer, even if it is one of those "low-ball" offers. You may be surprised what we can get to "go through" even with a difficult beginning.