Common reasons sellers lose money when selling their homes

Common reasons sellers lose money when selling their homes

Selling a home isn’t just about getting it sold; it’s about getting it right. From poor planning to rushed deals, small mistakes can cost thousands. Here are five common reasons sellers lose money, and how the right strategy can make all the difference.

1. Picking the wrong agent


Thousands of homeowners miss out on their home’s full value because their agent didn’t have the time, skill, or plan to get it right. When all you see are photos and a listing online, it’s easy to think every agent does the same job. The truth? The difference between a quick sale and a great result is the strategy behind it.

2. No marketing plan


Selling well isn’t about luck. It’s about knowing who your buyer is and how to reach them. Some buyers look for a deal, some pay fairly, but only a few will fall in love, and those are the ones who pay the emotional price. Finding them takes a proper marketing plan, not just a for-sale board and a few clicks.

3. Forgetting first impressions


Your home’s presentation matters, but it doesn’t have to feel clinical or staged. It should look lived in, loved, and ready for its next chapter. High-quality photos, thoughtful details, and a consistent marketing message help your property stand out in a crowded feed and stay in buyers’ minds long after they scroll past.


4. Selling too quickly


A fast sale can feel like a win, but it often means money left on the table. If you get an offer within hours or days, that’s usually a sign of strong demand. A skilled agent will know when to pause, create competition, and draw out higher offers. Volume-based or online agents often push the first deal that comes along, because speed works better for them than it does for you.


5. The wrong buyer


Not every offer is a safe one. With fall-through rates still above 40% nationally, it’s vital your agent checks that a buyer is truly ready and able to proceed. At Love Property, we take the time to qualify buyers properly at the start, to best protect your sale from day 1.

For any questions on this or further information, please give the sales team a call on 01748 834373!


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