Selling a home in Florida’s fast-moving real estate market may seem simple on the surface, but the truth is that small missteps can cost sellers thousands of dollars. As a certified Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) and full-time Realtor® serving Palm Coast, St. Augustine, and the surrounding areas, I’ve guided many homeowners through the selling process — and I see the same avoidable mistakes pop up again and again.
If you’re preparing to list your home, here are the top five mistakes Florida sellers make and how you can avoid them to get the best price in the shortest time.
1. Overpricing the Home From the Start
One of the biggest (and most expensive) mistakes is setting the list price too high. Many sellers believe they should “test the market,” but in reality, overpriced homes sit on the market longer, receive fewer showings, and often end up selling for less than they would have with a strategic price from day one.
Buyers compare your home to everything else available — and they know when a property is overpriced.
A competitive, data-backed price attracts more showings, generates stronger offers, and gives you more negotiating power.
2. Skipping Proper Home Preparation
Florida buyers expect clean, bright, and well-maintained properties — especially in markets like Palm Coast and St. Augustine where inventory moves quickly.
Here are the most common prep mistakes I see:
- Clutter that makes rooms feel smaller
- Scuffed paint or worn trim
- Neglected landscaping or outdoor spaces
- Minor cosmetic issues that create doubt for buyers
Simple improvements like touching up walls, pressure washing the exterior, refreshing curb appeal, and decluttering can dramatically improve your home’s perceived value.
3. Overlooking Minor Repairs
Small issues add up. A loose doorknob, a squeaky hinge, a dripping faucet, or a missing outlet cover immediately makes buyers wonder, “If they didn’t fix the small things, what larger problems might be hiding?”
When preparing your Florida home for sale, take care of the easy repairs. It signals that the home has been well maintained.
4. Using Poor Photography or Limited Marketing
Your first showing happens online — long before a buyer walks through the door.
Homes with dim lighting, tight angles, or cell phone photos instantly lose buyer interest. In today’s market, professional photography, video, social media promotion, and proper MLS exposure are essential.
My sellers receive my full marketing plan that highlights their home beautifully and reaches buyers across multiple platforms.
5. Trying to Sell Without a Realtor
For-sale-by-owner (FSBO) may seem like a money-saving idea, but most sellers lose more than they save. Without professional representation, homes typically:
- Sell for less
- Sit on the market longer
- Attract unqualified buyers
- Experience negotiation and inspection issues
- Encounter legal and contract challenges
As an SRS (Seller Representative Specialist), my job is to protect your best interests, manage the entire process, handle negotiations, manage inspection and appraisal hurdles, and ensure you walk away with the highest possible return.
Thinking of Selling Your Home in Palm Coast or St. Augustine?
Whether you’re just beginning to plan or ready to list your home, I’m here to help. As a local expert and SRS-certified agent, I offer a detailed pricing strategy, professional marketing, and step-by-step guidance tailored to your property.
📲 Reach out anytime for a no-pressure home value review or a personalized selling plan.
Marilynn Wolfe, Realtor®, SRS
LPT Realty
