5 Mistakes That Will Instantly Turn a Home Buyer Away – and How to Avoid Making Them

If you’re preparing to sell your home you’ve likely heard many tips and tricks to help close quickly, however few people will ever tell you what you’re doing wrong.

Don’t be your own roadblock to success! Avoid these common seller-mistakes to ensure that your home leaves a lasting impression on buyers, instead of sending them running for the hills.

1) Dirt: It’s A Don’t

Perhaps one of the biggest turn-offs in real estate, dirt gives the impression that your property is not well maintained. A dirty home is simply not aesthetically appealing and can often be the root cause of other turn-offs, such as bad odors. Keeping a clean, clutter-free home will show potential buyers that your property is a beautiful, healthy place where they can live comfortably without any foul surprises.

2) It’s Nothing Personal

While you may love looking at family photos, funky trinkets from travelling, or your colorful assortment of bath products, personal items such as these should be stored away during an open house. Showings are for buyers to see if they can see themselves living in your home, which is difficult to imagine when there are someone else’s belongings scattered throughout the house. If you’re serious about selling, pack away any items that send the message that this is your space.

3) Old News

Most often when people are looking for a new home they’re looking for just that: a NEW home! Having old, dated fixtures in your house tells prospective buyers that your property is stuck in the past, rather than prepared for the future. Make your property a place that anyone can move forward in.

4) Street Style

You may have spent so much time and effort making the inside of your home immaculate for a sale that you’ve completely forgotten that the outside is equally as important. Curb appeal is the very first impression that your home will have on buyers, and it’s essential that your property looks just as nice from the street as it does inside.

5) Snoopy Seller

You know your home better than anyone else, and you want to sell it to someone who genuinely cares about your property. While this statement may be true, it is counterproductive for you to participate in showings, pointing out all the great features of your home to interested buyers and grilling them on their intentions for when they purchase it. Give buyers space they need to see if your home is the right fit for them, and you’ll be selling it in no time.

Interested in receiving more advice on selling your home? Give me a call today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

11469 W Nadine Way Peoria, AZ 85383

$530,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,921 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700114

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

1-0 BUY DOWN AVAILABLE WITH THE PREFERRED LENDER! Prepare to be captivated by this stunning residence in the highly desirable community of Vistancia Village. A testament to meticulous care by its original owners, this beautiful home features an open floor plan that welcomes you with warmth and style. The heart of the home, a Chef's kitchen, delights with a gas stove, exquisite white cabinetry, a convenient pantry, and a breakfast bar illuminated by pendant lighting, perfect for casual dining. Enjoy the luxury of both informal and formal dining areas. Experience the seamless flow of the open living concept, where the living room showcases 12-ft sliding glass doors, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. Retreat to the spacious primary bedroom, where tranquility awaits. The primary bath impresses with a dual sink vanity, an expansive tile shower, and a generously sized closet, offering both functionality and style. Modern light fixtures throughout the home add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the ambiance. the Mediterranean-style backyard, features a covered travertine patio, plus an additional seating area overlooking a low-maintenance turf yard adorned with mature landscaping, including a thriving tangerine tree. With its thoughtful design, exquisite features, and prime location, this home offers a lifestyle of comfort, convenience, and timeless beauty.

View Property

15639 W Pinnacle Peak Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$530,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,634 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700477

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home nestled on 1.1 acres of lush landscape! Custom-built in 2021, this stunning property offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and serene countryside living. Boasting 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this residence is designed to impress at every turn. Step inside to discover an inviting interior featuring exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, where granite countertops, a spacious kitchen island, and full-overlay shaker-style cabinets. Soft-close drawers and doors add a touch of elegance, while a large walk-in pantry ensures ample storage space for all your kitchen essentials. Don't miss your chance to make this exceptional property your own.

View Property

10249 E Theorem Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$530,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,743 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700876

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new home in Eastmark! With 3 bedrooms, plus a den, this desirable split floorplan gives ample space for everyone. The living area features large kitchen with quartz counters, perfect for entertaining. The living area extends outside thanks to a wall of sliding glass doors. The beautiful backyard has recently been redone with immaculate turf, large covered patio with pavers and pergola. Walk out the front door and into the park with massive shades trees and picnic tables. Eastmark

View Property

7332 W Alexandria Way Peoria, AZ 85381

$530,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,152 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6703192

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new home, nestled in the sought-after neighborhood of Peoria! This residence offers a very popular split floor plan providing both comfort and style. The backyard oasis enhances this home's appeal. This well-designed layout seamlessly connects the living spaces. Kitchen boasts granite counters stainless appliances & cabinet pullouts. Spacious master suite features garden tub, separate shower & walk-in closet. The den is perfect for a home office. Low maintenance backyard is great for entertaining, featuring an extended covered patio, gas fireplace & built-in gas grill. Or simply enjoying an Arizona evening beside the fireplace or in the play pool and built-in spa. Owned solar system for lower power bills. Don't miss this opportunity to call this special home yours!

View Property

1094 S Agnes Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$530,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,015 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6704213

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Home in Cooley Station with an Open Floor Plan.Gorgeous Tile in All the right places. 3 Oversized Bedrooms with a Loft. 1st Master Suite has 2 Walk-in Closets with a Walk out Balcony to Enjoy Our Arizona Sunsets.Kitchen is Amazing with Upgraded Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances, Double Oven Range Microwave/Convection Oven,Gorgeous Granite Countertops. Kitchen Opens to the Family Area with 2 Oversized Sliding Doors that Opens to your Own Private Oasis. Walking Distance to 3 Community Pools/parks, Basketball Courts and so Much More!

View Property

1642 E Monte Vista Road Phoenix, AZ 85006

$530,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,493 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6705584

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

***BRAND NEW*** GREEN CERTIFIED***Perfect for the busy professional, these Lock & Leave, Maintenance Free, 11 Single-Family Attached 2-story Townhomes will be move-in ready this Summer 2024. Nestled between Downtown Phoenix & Arcadia, this home is in close proximity to the best restaurants, coffee shops, medical centers, and so much more! They feature an impressive open layout showcasing luxury vinyl plank flooring and modern recessed lighting. The beautiful kitchen boasts pristine white shaker cabinets, stylish tile backsplash, quartz counters, and a peninsula complete with breakfast bar. The primary bedroom features an immaculate ensuite with quartz dual sinks and a walk-in closet. What's not to like at this price-point!?!

View Property

9853 W Tonopah Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$530,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,968 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6705672

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This gorgeous single level home in North Peoria showcases 1,968 sq ft, 3 beds, 2 baths, den, granite countertops throughout home, stainless steel appliances, vaulted ceilings, family seating room, and updated bathrooms. This home is very clean and well cared for which is noticeable the moment you step inside. The north facing home has a front seating area, rv gate, security doors, low maintenance landscaping, and a dog run. Newer ac, water heater and roof. Updated laminate flooring and carpet throughout. Pride in ownership is evident in this home!

View Property

4856 S Tune -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$530,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,589 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6705734

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Now Short Sale Approved! Highly motivated seller! Fantastic chance to join the Eastmark community with this low-maintenance, move-in ready home. This home features absolutely stunning finishes. Bright open kitchen with a large island, gas range, stainless appliances, and crisp white cabinets. Two sliding glass doors open up to this beautifully done backyard with pavers, artificial turf, and privacy. The first floor includes a spacious bedroom with full bathroom. Upstairs, the bedrooms and loft are generous and inviting. Primary bedroom is a retreat with a large bath and walk-in closet connecting to the upstairs laundry. Abundant storage throughout. Award-winning schools. Minutes to the freeways, airport, dining options and medical care. Don't let this one get away!

View Property

22137 W Cantilever Court Buckeye, AZ 85326

New

$530,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,663 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706273

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to this beautifully updated five bedroom, 2.75 bathroom home . Enormous corner lot with RV gate, pebble tech pool, and firepit. Formal living room and dining room, eat-in kitchen which opens to family room with entertainment niche. Guest bedroom and 3/4 bath downstairs. Upstairs loft and 4 additional bedrooms including the Master Bedroom. Large Master Bedroom with walk-in closet and master bathroom suite which includes double sinks, garden tub and separate shower. Home features energy efficient sunscreens and ceiling fans. Additional features, newer water heater and a/c units, under stairs storage, full length covered patio. Close to schools, shopping and I-10.

View Property

9613 N Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85020

Open House

New

$530,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,825 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707451

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

RARE Central Avenue custom home under the shadow of North Mountain. This gleaming 3- bedroom, 2 bath home with 9 foot ceilings, has an open floorplan with spacious family room and dining area . A gorgeous kitchen with wide central granite island with bar seating, self-closing cabinets and drawers, stainless steel appliances, walk-in pantry and accent lighting and breakfast nook. Luxurious primary suite with large, tiled, walk-in shower and 12'' over-head rain shower along with steam panel with shower wand. Dual vanities and spacious walk-in closet. Fully landscaped front yard with low water use plants and trees. Grass back yard with garden and fruit trees with an automatic watering system to decrease water use and allows for an easy harvest.

View Property

3813 E Captain Dreyfus Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85032

New

$530,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,676 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707526

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

5 Miles from Arizona's wealthiest municipality of Paradise Valley, 3/4 mile to Paradise Valley Mall area w/ shopping & restaurants, Corner Lot, No HOA, Private Pool, Garage AND Carport, New Kitchen w/ granite counters, gas range & shaker cabinetry, both bathrooms remodeled, Newer roof, HVAC and Pool Pump, RV Gate, Covered Patio, Primary Suite has private exit to backyard, Fireplace, and the Pool was just replastered in February!

View Property

9100 E Raintree Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$529,999

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,448 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6662238

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Immaculate home in North Scottsdale with breathtaking MOUNTAIN VIEWS! 3 bed, 2-bath condo in the private community of Raintree Resort Casitas. Boasting wood-look tile flooring, custom shutters, & a private balcony. The kitchen offers ample cabinetry, granite countertops, pantry, peninsula with ample seating, & reverse osmosis system. Primary suite complete with an ensuite bathroom & walk-in closet. This unit also includes 2 additional bedrooms, a 1-CAR GARAGE, plenty of guest parking, & a newer HVAC. Take advantage of community amenities like a pool, spa, & scenic hiking/biking paths - endless options for outdoor enjoyment. Convenient Scottsdale location at Frank Lloyd Wright & Raintree with access to top schools, & shopping/dining at Kierland Commons, The Promenade, & Old Town Scottsdale

View Property