Preparation Tips & Curb AppealSeller Resources September 5, 2025

3 Things to Avoid When Prepping to Sell Your Home

When it’s time to sell, first impressions matter. Buyers often make up their minds within minutes of stepping inside, and small missteps can leave a lasting impression. While decluttering and cleaning are important, it’s just as critical to avoid these common mistakes:


1. Over-Personalizing the Space

Your home is full of your personality — family photos, bold paint colors, and unique décor. But buyers need to imagine themselves living there. Overly personal spaces can make that harder.

What to do instead: Stick to neutral colors, remove family portraits, and simplify décor. Think of it as setting the stage for a wide audience, not just one buyer’s taste.


2. Ignoring Curb Appeal

The outside of your home is the very first thing buyers will see — and it sets the tone for their entire visit. Overgrown bushes, peeling paint, or a cluttered porch can turn buyers off before they even step inside.

What to do instead: Freshen up your landscaping, add seasonal flowers, power-wash the walkway, and consider a fresh coat of paint for the front door. Small changes outside create big excitement inside.


3. Skipping Minor Repairs

You may think buyers won’t notice that leaky faucet, squeaky door, or cracked tile, but they do — and it makes them wonder what else might be wrong. These small red flags can add up to bigger doubts about the home’s overall condition.

What to do instead: Fix the little things ahead of time. It shows buyers your home is well cared for and move-in ready.


Bottom Line

Selling your home isn’t just about making it look good — it’s about removing barriers that could make buyers hesitate. By avoiding over-personalization, boosting curb appeal, and fixing small issues, you’ll make your home shine and attract serious buyers faster.

Watch our video here 👇

📞 Thinking about selling? Let’s connect. I’d be happy to walk through your home with you and share personalized tips to help you get the best results.