7 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Selling a Home in Michigan (and How to Avoid Them)

Selling a home in Michigan—whether in Fenton, Grand Blanc, Linden, or far beyond—isn’t something most people do often. It’s exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming with today’s shifting real estate market. After nearly a decade as a REALTOR®, I’ve noticed the same mistakes trip up sellers again and again.

The good news? These pitfalls are completely avoidable with the right preparation and guidance. Here are 7 common mistakes homeowners make when selling—and how you can avoid them to sell smarter and with less stress.

1. Overpricing the Home

It’s natural to want top dollar. But overpricing can backfire—your home sits on the market, loses momentum, and often ends up selling for less.
✅ Pro Tip: Price it right from the start. A competitive price creates buzz and can even spark multiple offers.

2. Skipping Small Repairs

That leaky faucet or scuffed wall may seem minor, but buyers notice everything. Little issues can leave them wondering what bigger problems might be hiding.
✅ Pro Tip: Tackle the quick fixes before listing. A well-maintained home signals “move-in ready.”

3. Ignoring Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Overgrown bushes, peeling paint, or a tired front door can make buyers drive away before stepping inside.
✅ Pro Tip: Freshen up landscaping, add a pop of color to the door, and keep things tidy. Small updates pay off big.

4. Using Cell Phone Photos

Your home deserves better than grainy or poorly lit photos. With buyers starting their search online, great photography is non-negotiable.
✅ Pro Tip: Invest in professional photos (I always include this for my sellers). The right lighting and angles make your home shine.

5. Staying Home During Showings

It may feel helpful to “be there,” but buyers need space to imagine themselves in the home. Hovering can make them uncomfortable.
✅ Pro Tip: Step out during showings so buyers can explore freely.

6. Not Staging (or Over-Staging)

Staging highlights your home’s best features—but overdoing it or skipping it entirely can turn buyers off.
✅ Pro Tip: Aim for balance. Declutter, depersonalize, and use furniture to define spaces. (I offer complimentary staging consultations to my clients.)

7. Letting Emotions Lead

Selling a home you’ve loved is emotional. But getting too attached to your asking price or décor choices can hurt your sale.
✅ Pro Tip: Think like a buyer. Trust your agent’s market knowledge and focus on your bigger goals.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these seven mistakes can save you money, time, and frustration—while helping your home stand out in today’s competitive market. Every home and neighborhood is different, which is why having a tailored strategy matters.

If you’re considering selling in Fenton, Grand Blanc, Linden, or the surrounding areas, I’d love to be a resource for you. I provide complimentary staging consultations, professional photography, and a proven marketing plan to help homeowners sell with confidence.

👉 Curious about your home’s current value? Messge me HERE with any real estate questions you may have or just to talk about the market. It’s my favorite thing to do!