The Biggest Mistakes Sellers Make in This Market

Selling a home is a big decision, and I’ve seen too many sellers make simple mistakes that cost them time and money. Right now, Perth’s market is still strong, but buyers are becoming more selective—so it’s important to get things right from the start.

Here are the biggest mistakes I see (and how to avoid them!):

1. Overpricing Your Home

I get it—everyone wants to sell for top dollar. But today’s buyers are savvy and have easy access to price comparisons. If your property is overpriced, it’ll sit on the market longer, and you’ll likely end up reducing the price anyway. Pricing it correctly from the start attracts serious buyers and often leads to faster sales and better offers.

Tip: I always provide sellers with accurate, data-driven price advice to position their home competitively.

2. Neglecting Presentation

First impressions matter! Homes that are well-presented, clean, and decluttered always sell faster and for more. Even small things—like fresh paint, tidy gardens, and natural light—make a huge difference.

Tip: I guide my sellers on easy, budget-friendly ways to make their home stand out. Sometimes, just rearranging furniture or adding some greenery makes a space feel bigger and more inviting.

3. Ignoring Repairs

Buyers notice the little things—leaky taps, scuffed walls, dodgy door handles. These minor issues can make buyers hesitant or give them a reason to negotiate the price down.

Tip: A quick pre-sale fix-up pays off in the long run.

4. Not Being Flexible with Buyers

In this market, buyers are taking their time and being cautious with offers. If you refuse to negotiate or only allow limited home viewings, you might miss out on the best buyer.

Tip: A little flexibility goes a long way! Consider all offers seriously and be open to realistic negotiations.

5. Choosing the Wrong Agent

Your agent makes all the difference. Some agents overpromise on price to win your listing but then struggle to deliver. Others don’t have the right marketing strategies to get your home in front of the right buyers.

Tip: A good agent (like me!) will give you honest advice, market your property strategically, and negotiate confidently to get you the best possible result.

If you’re thinking about selling, let’s have a chat. I’ll give you a realistic, no-pressure assessment of your home and what it could sell for in today’s market.

Paulette Contessi

Director / Licensee

CONTESSI PROPERTIES