What you shouldn’t say to a home buyer when selling

Every home seller should know that it’s their duty to disclose several important details about their property, especially if there is lead paint or the presence of asbestos in the home they’re about to let go. However, there are some things that are better left unsaid. Putting these iffy topics out in the open could affect the outcome of the sale and your negotiating power. So, if you are a seller who’s about to present a home disclosure to potential buyers, you may want to avoid mentioning these small details:

How long the home has been on the market

The time your home has been sitting on the market is a topic you generally want to avoid discussing with potential buyers. Telling buyers how long it’s been since you listed your home for sale may give the impression that you are desperately seeking to sell your home due to some structural defects. They could use this as their basis for including too many contingencies or making a lowball offer. Besides, buyers will also be able to see how long the home has been in the market in the listing.

The number of offers you received

There’s no need to mention how many offers you have or haven’t gotten for your home even if the buyer asks about this. Instead, you can say that others have shown interest in the house and that you might be expecting an offer soon.

Your home being in perfect condition

While your home may seem perfect in your eyes, the home inspection may reveal several issues with the property that you may have missed. Buyers may also spot issues when they visit your home in person. This is no reason for you to fret, though — no house is ever in perfect condition. There’s always something that needs to be fixed. When it comes to the condition of the home, your real estate agent can help you in deciding what needs to be disclosed and what can be kept in the background unless questions arise. You also don’t need to disclose details that aren’t related to the condition of your home.

What you wanted to fix or renovate

A common mistake that sellers make when talking to potential buyers is mentioning areas they wanted to fix but never got the chance to do so. This will only draw more attention to issues with the home. This will also be a signal to the buyer that purchasing this house will translate to more expenses for home improvement projects or renovations.

Fixes or renovations you spent money on

Potential buyers don’t need to know the amount of money you spent on certain fixes or renovations to your home. Whether you installed a smart home security system or gave the kitchen a total makeover, telling them how much you spent to improve the home gives a desperate impression. Instead, let the comps speak for themselves. When buyers make an offer, it should ideally be based on prices of recently sold homes in your area that are similar to your property in terms of size, age, and condition.

You’ve found your next home

If you’ve found your next home and you’re just waiting for your current home to be sold, it’s best not to let buyers know immediately that you are ready to move. Buyers may see this as an opportunity to make a lowball offer since they assume that you’re in a hurry to sell the house and use the proceeds for your imminent move. As much as possible, let your real estate agent do all the talking and let them be the one to handle the buyer and buyer’s agent.

Refusing to accept an offer that’s less than what you want

Every seller wants to earn top dollar for their home, but this isn’t always the most ideal strategy. If you, as a seller, refuse to give a price reduction and reject any offer that is less than a certain amount, you are giving the impression of stubbornness. And with that, other potential buyers will avoid dealing with you. You should learn when to back down. Being open to lower offers that are still reasonably priced shows buyers that you are flexible and open to negotiating.

Leave the talking to the professionals

The key to a successful home sale is by working with experienced agents like Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) Caliber Realty. This team of dedicated real estate agents has the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to help you in achieving your real estate goals. If you want more tips for selling your home, feel free to give them a call at 979.694.8844 or send an email to sales(at)bhhscaliber(dotted)com today!

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