Selling a home is a major financial decision — and once it’s done, there’s no rewind button. Over the years, I’ve had many sellers tell me, “I wish I had known this sooner.”
Most regrets don’t come from the sale itself — they come from rushed decisions, unclear expectations, or missed preparation. The good news? Nearly all of these regrets are avoidable with the right strategy from the start.
Here are the most common seller regrets I see across Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix — and how to avoid making the same ones.
1. Overpricing the Home From the Start
This is the most common regret I hear.
Many sellers assume starting high leaves room to negotiate. In reality, overpricing often leads to:
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Fewer showings
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Longer time on market
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Price reductions later
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Lower final sale prices
How to avoid it:
Price strategically based on current market data, not past highs or online estimates.
2. Skipping Key Preparation Before Listing
Some sellers regret not addressing small issues early.
This includes:
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Minor repairs
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Deep cleaning
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Decluttering
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Simple cosmetic updates
Buyers notice details — and unfinished items can create hesitation.
How to avoid it:
Handle low-cost, high-impact improvements before listing to strengthen first impressions.
3. Underestimating the Importance of Presentation
Photos, showings, and overall presentation matter more than many sellers expect.
Poor presentation can result in:
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Reduced buyer interest
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Lower offers
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Longer market time
How to avoid it:
Prepare your home to show its best — both online and in person.
4. Not Understanding the True Costs of Selling
Some sellers are surprised by net proceeds after closing.
Costs may include:
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Closing expenses
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Repairs or credits
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Moving costs
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Prorated taxes or fees
How to avoid it:
Review a clear net estimate early so there are no surprises later.
5. Accepting the First Offer Without a Full Review
The first offer isn’t always the best offer — even if the price looks good.
Other factors matter, such as:
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Financing strength
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Contingencies
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Timeline flexibility
How to avoid it:
Evaluate the full terms of each offer, not just the number.
6. Letting Emotions Drive Decisions
Homes are personal — but selling requires objectivity.
Emotional decisions can lead to:
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Delayed responses
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Missed opportunities
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Strained negotiations
How to avoid it:
Rely on strategy and market data, not emotion, when making decisions.
7. Waiting Too Long to Adjust Strategy
If a home isn’t getting traction, waiting can work against you.
Delayed adjustments often result in:
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Buyer hesitation
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Reduced urgency
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Stale listings
How to avoid it:
Monitor feedback and act quickly when changes are needed.
8. Not Having a Clear Plan After the Sale
Some sellers regret not planning their next move early enough.
This includes:
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Temporary housing needs
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Timing the next purchase
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Coordinating closings
How to avoid it:
Create a clear plan for what comes next — before listing.
FAQs: Avoiding Seller Regrets
Q: What’s the biggest mistake sellers make?
A: Overpricing and not adjusting quickly when the market responds.
Q: Are renovations always necessary before selling?
A: Not always — but strategic preparation makes a difference.
Q: Should sellers worry about market timing?
A: Timing matters, but preparation and pricing matter more.
Q: How can sellers feel confident during negotiations?
A: By understanding their numbers and having clear guidance.
Q: Can seller regrets be avoided entirely?
A: With planning, transparency, and the right strategy — yes.
The Bottom Line
Most seller regrets come down to one thing: not having a clear plan from the beginning. When you understand the market, prepare thoughtfully, and stay flexible, selling becomes far less stressful — and far more successful.
Thinking About Selling in Arizona? Let’s Do It Right the First Time
If you’re considering selling in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, or Phoenix, let’s talk through your goals and create a strategy that protects your bottom line and your peace of mind.
📞 480-980-4400
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.denisehurd.com
Smart planning today prevents regrets tomorrow.