Top 5 Mistakes Sellers Make in Today’s Market — and How to Avoid Them

Selling your home is more than just listing it. It’s a strategy game — and the wrong moves can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Here are the top 5 mistakes sellers in Singapore often make (with tips to avoid them).

1. Overpricing the Property

Many sellers hope to "test the market" with high asking prices. But buyers today are savvy — they’ve done their homework. If you're priced well above recent transactions, your listing may get ignored.

💡 What to do:

• Check recent nearby sales (use HDB resale portal or URA caveats).

• Look at price per square foot, not just overall price.

• Work with an agent to price based on current, not sentimental, value.

2. Poor Presentation

Would you swipe right on a blurry photo? Neither would a buyer.

Dark, cluttered, or empty-looking units can turn off interest even before viewings.

💡 What to do:

• Declutter and depersonalize — remove religious symbols, kids’ toys, excess furniture.

• Use warm lighting, mirrors, and clean surfaces to make the space pop.

• Invest in professional photography — this isn’t the time for grainy phone pics.

3. Not Knowing the Numbers

You may think you’re making a profit, but are you really?

Sellers often overlook key costs: legal fees, agent commissions, CPF refunds, outstanding loan amounts — and even resale levies if you’re moving to another subsidised flat.

💡 What to do:

• Ask for a full breakdown of your net sale proceeds before listing.

• Factor in bridging loans or rental if you’re buying another property.

• Plan for cash shortfalls if CPF refunds don’t cover the next deposit.

4. Rejecting Early Offers Too Quickly

Many believe: “If I got this offer so fast, surely better ones will come.”But in a buyer’s market, that first offer could be your best.

💡 What to do:

• Evaluate early offers seriously, especially if they’re close to your asking price.

• Ask your agent about viewing traffic and market trends.

• Don't chase a “dream price” if it means holding the property for months.

5. Being Unprepared for Viewings

Viewings can come in with just a few hours' notice. If your home isn’t clean or available, that buyer may move on.

💡 What to do:

• Keep your unit “viewing-ready”: beds made, floors swept, lights working.

• Create flexible viewing slots (especially weekends and evenings).

• Leave the unit during viewings — let buyers envision it as their home.

✅ Thinking of Selling?

Avoid these common mistakes and get the price you deserve — without the stress.

👉 Let’s chat about your timeline, goals, and how I can help you prep your unit for a smooth and profitable sale.