Four key mistakes to avoid when selling your property

Maximising Your Sale Price – Avoid These Common Mistakes

When homeowners in Bishop’s Stortford, Stansted, Elsenham or the surrounding villages decide to sell, the goal is always the same—achieving the highest possible price. The equity tied up in your home gives you options. A better sale price could mean moving to a more expensive home, releasing funds if you’re downsizing, or simply cashing in and putting the money in the bank. No one wants to leave money on the table—especially after years of paying a mortgage and building up that hard-earned value.

However, some common mistakes can seriously impact the price you achieve. The good news? They’re easy to identify and avoid. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Overpricing Your Home

It’s natural to want the highest price for your property, but overpricing can be a major setback. If your home is valued by multiple agents and one figure is significantly higher than the rest, it’s likely unrealistic. Buyers in Bishop’s Stortford, Stansted, and Elsenham keep a close eye on the market—they know when a property is overpriced and will simply scroll past it. No viewings mean no offers, which can ultimately lead to price reductions and a longer time on the market.

2. Poor Presentation

Your home doesn’t need to look like a show home, but first impressions count. Buyers need to see the space clearly—clutter can make rooms feel smaller and less inviting. A simple tidy-up and some thoughtful staging can make a big difference to how buyers perceive your home, which in turn can impact the offers you receive.

3. Weak Marketing

Your estate agent is responsible for marketing your home, but bad photography and poorly written descriptions can cost you buyers. Dark, uninviting images or the wrong angles can make even a spacious home look cramped. Make sure your agent uses professional photography, videography, and effective marketing strategies to showcase your home properly.

4. Choosing the Wrong Estate Agent

A great agent does more than just list your home—they proactively find buyers, negotiate the best price, and hold the sale together through to completion. The wrong agent could mean missed opportunities, weak negotiations, and even sales falling through. The key is choosing an agent who is hands-on, experienced, and dedicated to getting the best result for you.

Starting on the Right Foot

The decisions you make at the start of your selling journey will determine the success of your sale. At Willmott & Lake, we use expert local knowledge, high-quality marketing, and proactive negotiation to make sure you achieve the best price possible.

If you’re thinking of selling in Bishop’s Stortford, Stansted, Elsenham or the surrounding area, get in touch—we’d love to help.