The 5 most common mistakes sellers must avoid in 2026 to sell their property quickly:
1️⃣ Setting the wrong price from the start
This is the most costly mistake.And we can’t say it enough, setting the right sale price is the most important step during a real estate transaction. Why? It must be justified and competitive so that buyers are seriously interested.
A price that is too high drives buyers away and lengthens the timelines. A price that is too low makes you lose value.
How to determine the price of a house:
- Conduct a comparative analysis of properties sold in your sector.
- Determine a negotiation margin.
- Don’t be rigid and emotional.
- Trust your real estate agent.
Read our article How do you determine the selling price of your home? to learn more.
2️⃣ Neglecting the first impression
During viewings, buyers decide within the first few minutes whether or not they will buy.
A poorly maintained, messy, and bad-smelling house does not attract any serious buyer. So you must:
- Do a thorough spring cleaning.
- Declutter the rooms, add light, and paint with neutral colors.
- Take professional photos in order to attract buyers.
3️⃣ Underestimating the importance of preparation
Selling on a whim never seems like a good idea!
You find yourself in situations you are not ready to face, and you lose money as well as time. It is better to plan and prepare before putting your property on the market.
List of things to do before selling your house:
- Ask yourself the right questions:
- Why are you selling your house?
- When do you want to sell?
- Take the time to choose the right real estate agent.
- Put together a file containing all required documents and bills:
- Your tax and electricity bills
- The invoices for the work you’ve had done
- Get a pre-listing inspection.
- Fix all the small flaws.
4️⃣ Not listening to your real estate agent’s advice
From valuation to signing with the notary, including the various forms to fill out and the marketing, a good agent will be by your side every step of the way. Selling your house is a complex process, so by teaming up with an agent, you will benefit from notable expertise.
Why choose a Proprio Direct broker? Our 7 reasons:
- Take advantage of the expertise of our brokers
- Benefit from their in-depth knowledge of the different sectors
- Enjoy a sales strategy
- Be supported throughout the entire selling process
- Access Proprio Direct’s exclusive programs
- Be protected by the Real Estate Brokerage Act
- Save time
5️⃣ Neglecting the financial aspect of the sale
The most frequent mistakes made by sellers are failing to plan the financial transition and underestimating all the inherent costs of the transaction (notary, moving, documentation, work/repairs, etc.).
Even before putting your house up for sale, we advise you to consult your financial planner to do a complete assessment. Among other things, they can look with you at what you still have to pay and the gains you can make in return.
Being financially ready will certainly put you in a better position to negotiate.
In 2026, the success of your real estate sale primarily depends on three things: preparation, patience, and collaboration with a good real estate agent.
Selling your house is not a sprint, but a well-planned race.
Are you looking to buy next year? Read our article Achat immobilier : les erreurs à éviter en 2026.
✅ Curious to learn more? Benefit from the advice of an experienced professional, regulated by the Real Estate Brokerage Act, by contacting one of them now!