4 Terrible Mistakes Made by First-time Home Sellers

There are a lot of different factors that go into selling a home for the first time that can make it a stressful process, but there are a few things home sellers should avoid for a successful sale. If you’re going to be putting your home on the market in the near future and are hoping for quick success, here are some common mistakes you’ll want to be sure to bypass.

Pricing Your Home Too High

It’s entirely likely that there’s an amount you have in mind when it comes to selling your home, but it’s important that your asking price is in line with the market conditions and what’s being offered. Instead of winging it, check the local neighborhood listings and see what similar homes are selling for so yours won’t be left to linger on the market.

Forgetting The Small Repairs

After you’ve put your home up for sale and have arranged an open house, one of the first things people will notice is the small repairs; like paint chips or loose doorknobs; that haven’t yet been fixed. Instead of letting this negatively impact the offers you’ll receive, complete the little fix-ups before you schedule your open house so potential homebuyers are not turned off.

Missing On Marketing

There are so many avenues for selling a home these days that it can be hard to know which way to go. However, it’s best to consider all of your options and utilize social media to widen the audience you’ll attract. Keep in mind that if you’re investing in a website or brochures, it’s important to hire a good photographer to show your home in its best light.

Selling It On Your Own

Hitting the market on your own can be rife with a lot of questions, so as a first-time seller you may want to consider the services of a real estate agent.  While it’s tempting to save the commission, it may cost you in time on the market and negotiating power.  An experienced agent know how to market your home professionally to get your home in front of the maximum number of buyers possible.  But, more importantly, an experienced real estate agent will be able to head off minor problems before they become major problems plus we also have the negotiating skills to make sure your best interests are always represented.

Selling a home for the first time can be a stressful thing to take on, but by utilizing the right agent and having reasonable expectations, it may be off the market before you know it. If you’re getting ready to put your home up for sale, give me a call to get started – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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

2060 E Quartz Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$2,500,000

7 Beds

8 Baths

6,846 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768491

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Recently built, beautifully constructed 2 story home in a quiet neighborhood, no HOA, on the edge of town with access to all major shopping and located just minutes from the freeway. Designed for multi-generational living, this home includes a beautiful large kitchen on the main floor with a large walk-in pantry, a 2nd fully functional kitchen on the 2nd floor. The elegant master bath is a must see with 2 large walk-in closets and a separate laundry in the master closet. Designed for comfort w/ 6 AC zones/thermostats for greater temperature control and balance. All interior walls are insulated for sound reduction. Parking - oversized 4 car garage and large circular drive with RV parking. The detached 1 bedroom guest house is fully functional with a kitchen and laundry.

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3440 E Kael Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$2,500,000

4 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,852 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6744700

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxury remodel in a gated community! New kitchen with custom cabinetry, cabinet-front fridge/freezer, quartz slab backsplashes, huge island with 2 dishwashers, 48' gas range and custom hood, and beautiful hutch style cabinetry with glass doors. If the kitchen wasn't enough.. there is a butlers pantry equipped with a microwave, a full size oven and an ice maker, in addition to the Costco sized pantry for all your additional storage needs. The primary bedroom will draw you in with its beautiful natural Harwood floors, its soaring ceilings, cozy double-sided fireplace, and its views of the full grown citrus trees that adorn the property. The primary bath has been completely overhauled! It boasts a custom shower with multiple shower heads, a freestanding tub overlooking a private courtyard, and its views of the full grown citrus trees that adorn the property. The primary bath has been completely overhauled! It boasts a custom shower with multiple shower heads, a freestanding tub overlooking a private courtyard, 2 vanities and separate closets. the bedrooms are split, with primary bedroom on the east end of the home & three additional bedrooms split on the west end. The home features 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, living room, game room, theater room and formal dining room. Additional features included: 4 car extra deep garage with separate storage area, pool with slide, over 1,000 of covered patio, and much more!

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5908 E Orange Blossom Lane Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,500,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,395 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713234

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of the Arizona Country Club golf course is this lovely Spanish Colonial home. This is a one-of-a-kind property that offers great privacy and seclusion, while still being conveniently located on Orange Blossom Lane. As you enter through the wooden gate a serene courtyard welcomes you with a large covered patio complete with an outdoor kitchen, sparkling pool, oversized garage, and charming guest house creating an inviting oasis for entertaining family and friends. One of the oldest homes remaining on the course, this special property boasts architectural elegance throughout featuring barreled ceilings, solid wood flooring, a gas and wood-burning fireplace, and arched wooden doors that open onto views of tranquil Camelback Mountain. The open kitchen features a large butcher block island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and an abundance of windows and doors that overlook the lush fairways, allowing natural light to flood the space. The main house offers three spacious bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Additionally, a basement offers lots of storage space, wine storage and a great workspaces with outside exit. This property is a rare gem and is truly a must see.

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13225 N 136th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,500,000

3 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,538 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744627

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Views, Views, and more Views. This custom single level hillside residence is perched on 1.3 acres on one of the highest lots in the exclusive Scottsdale Mountain community. Enjoy both upslope mountain views from the private back yard and City lights from the two front patios. Community amenities include a 24/7 guard gate, hiking trails, and a tennis center with pickleball and hot tub. This exceptional home is on the market for the first time. The home features three en-suite bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths including a dedicated pool bath, an executive office, a three car garage with workshop, and over 4,500 sq feet of living space. The flowing floorplan offers both formal and informal spaces that are light-filled and spacious. The heart of the home is the open kitchen and family room area. The kitchen features a large island, cherry cabinets with Calacatta quartz countertops, and walk-in pantry. The adjoining family room features a stone fireplace and built-in entertainment center. The expansive primary suite includes a sitting room, fireplace, large shower and soaking tub, and large walk-in closet. The private backyard starts with a large covered patio with fireplace and built-in BBQ. The elevated pool and spa features multiple waterfalls exuding a tropical ambiance nestled in the majestic McDowell mountains. Conveniently located to Mayo Clinic and top rated schools including Basis Scottsdale charter school and Desert Mountain HS.

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8742 E Woodley Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

Open House

$2,500,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

4,613 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747685

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

In addition to the new custom home design, the owners have invested in additional upgrades. A professionally designed desert landscape featuring rolling terrain with marquee desert plant specimens. Expanded patio spaces created for enhanced outside living. The north facing heated pool is in the sun while the covered patios provide large shaded areas to eat and relax. The large lot provides for even more eastward expansion if desired. Windows and doors with direct sunlight have been tinted to maximize energy efficiency of the three zone heating and cooling system. The pool, HVAC and indoor and outdoor lighting can be controlled remotely as well as the monitored security and camera systems. The home features custom wood cabinetry throughout with dovetail joinery and soft-close hinges and glides. All four large bedrooms feature walk-in closets and ensuite baths and large showers. The attached casita features its own external entrance off the front patio for your guests.

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25323 N 104th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open House

$2,500,000

5 Beds

5 Baths

4,438 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778685

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover luxurious living on a golf course lot with stunning views, nestled in the prestigious Troon Fairways community. This remarkable property located on Hole 1 boasts a spacious main home with 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths downstairs, plus attached guest quarters on the second floor featuring an additional bedroom and bath—ideal for visitors or multi-generational living. Enjoy the heated pool and hot tub year round while taking in the views. Also included is a charming 1 bedroom, 1 bath detached 795 sqft Casita with Kitchenette & Living Room for the ultimate private retreat. With access to Troon's renowned amenities—championship golf courses, scenic trails, and a vibrant clubhouse—this home offers the finest in Scottsdale living.

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4841 E Fairmount Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

Open House

$2,500,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

4,141 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777412

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Arcadia living at its finest with this newly-built modern residence, nestled in the heart of Arcadia Lite. This sleek 5 bedroom, 6 bathroom residence offers sweeping Camelback Mountain views, paired with elevated finishes and design throughout. With functionality in mind, the modern layout features; An open main living area that flows into your chef's kitchen, two spacious primary suites (one on the main level and one on the second level), a large flex space/game room with a walkout balcony perfectly framing Camelback Mountain, and a resort backyard showcasing a sparkling pool, green space and seamless indoor/outdoor Arizona living. The spacious chef's kitchen is a dream come true and is set up for entertaining featuring; High-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and a large center island while offering easy access to the outdoor oasis, paired with a comfortable flow for day to day living. With an abundance of natural light, you'll never want to leave. Soak in the majestic Arizona evenings under your perfectly positioned pergola or gather around the beautiful pool. This stunning new construction home is in a prime Arcadia Lite location, conveniently across the street from OHSO Brewery Arcadia and just minutes from the Global Ambassador Hotel, Steak 44, The Henry, Chelsea's Kitchen, and LGO, plus Fashion Square Mall in Old Town Scottsdale. Preview this stunning modern residence today!

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4052 E Oak Street Phoenix, AZ 85008

Open House

$2,500,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

5,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778389

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New construction - Modern Luxury just south of Arcadia. Every detail of this 5 bedroom masterpiece has been thoughtfully considered and expertly crafted, from the framing to the quality finishes, to the seamless smart home technology integration. Details such as hand-troweled venetian plaster and embedded light fixtures, generous butler pantry and doggie bath laundry are generally found at much higher price points. This flexible floor plan features a separate primary retreat that feels like a private spa, and an attached full casita including kitchen, bath and laundry. All bedrooms are ensuite. The kitchen is a cook's dream with all Thermador appliances, streamlined wood cabinets, and a huge, cantilevered island with plenty of room for seating and entertaining! The living area opens onto a generous patio and beyond is a new pool, hot tub, and large grassy area in the oversized backyard. Enjoy the lifestyle this amazing location affords: close to restaurants, shopping, golf, hiking, ASU, freeways, and 15 minutes to the airport. Call today for a private showing.

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6418 N 28th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

Open House

$2,500,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,863 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784897

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Soft contemporary elegance meets comfortable living in this meticulously updated property. Located in the highly desirable guard-gated Biltmore Estates. Nestled at the foot of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve w/ peaceful mountain views on a premium lot which abuts natural desert on 2 sides. The clean lines of the plank white oak floors, oversized custom baseboards, 12' ceilings, coupled w/ oversized windows bring in an abundance of natural light, gorgeous views, & simple Arizona indoor/outdoor lifestyle. White kitchen cabinets accentuate the quartz countertops complete w/ a waterfall-edged island, gas cooktop, built in microwave + double wall ovens. Indulge in the Master bedroom & bath featuring a freestanding soaking tub, lavish shower w/ dual heads/controls, 2 vanities and ample storage. This darling home is all on level with no interior steps and all three bedrooms are split for your privacy. The 3 car garage is complete with epoxy flooring. Truly an entertainer's dream complete with a heated pool/ spa, and mountain views. This must see is conveniently located to great shopping, cultural and social events.

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5741 N 38th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Open House

$2,500,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,671 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753536

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Paradise Valley home offers stunning 360-degree views of Camelback Mountain, downtown Phoenix lights, and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, all complemented by modern upgrades throughout. The property includes a main house and an attached guest house, perfect for hosting visitors or extended stays. The open-concept living room features a wall of windows that bathe the space in natural light, anchored by a cozy fireplace. The chef's kitchen is outfitted with stainless steel appliances, a skylight, an eat-in area, and a formal dining space. The primary suite serves as a peaceful retreat with private backyard access, dual vanities, and a full bath. Designed for seamless indoor/outdoor living, the backyard is a true desert oasis, complete with a custom pool, expanded deck, covered patio, and lush desert landscaping that ensures privacy. Multiple seating areas provide ample room for lounging and entertaining. Situated in a highly desirable, private neighborhood, this home is just minutes from world-class resorts, golf courses, fine dining, and shopping. A rare gem, this property embodies the essence of luxury living in Paradise Valley.

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616 E Carver Road Tempe, AZ 85284

$2,499,999

10 Beds

6.5 Baths

5,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779173

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this one-of-a-kind Victorian-inspired home that combines timeless elegance with modern comfort, situated in the heart of South Tempe. Known for its welcoming community feel and close-knit atmosphere, South Tempe offers the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. The main residence boasts charming Victorian architectural details, from the turret and gabled rooflines to large windows that fill the interior with natural light. The architectural details and uniqueness continue inside with expansive living areas ideal for both family living and entertaining. There is space for even the largest of families with 8 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms and beyond the main house, the detached guest house offers 2 additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, a full kitchen, laundry and a comfortable living area, creating a self-contained suite that provides both privacy and convenience. Step outside, and you're greeted by a true backyard oasis. The outdoor space is designed for relaxation and gatherings, featuring a sparkling pool and spa perfect for cooling off during Arizona summers or unwinding under the stars. A built-in BBQ area and pergola seating provide an inviting setting for alfresco dining and entertaining, surrounded by lush landscaping that enhances the private, resort-like ambiance. Living in South Tempe means you're close to top-rated schools, lush parks, and locally-owned eateries, all while being minutes from major highways for easy access to the greater Phoenix area. The neighborhood's abundance of green spaces and community events make it a highly desirable place for families and professionals alike. Do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make this one-of-a-kind home yours!

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2068 E Tiffany Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$2,499,999

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,622 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753265

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located on nearly an acre, this Circle G remodeled custom home is a dream where you can enjoy small town living in the big city. The perfectly designed floorplan includes 5 bedrooms, office, 4.5 baths, large family room, bonus/teen room, oversized 3 car garage, extended driveway with electric security gate and huge new RV garage. The chef's kitchen features Thermador appliances with WIFI range hood, touch to open refrigerator and freezer, microwave, gas range & griddle, steam oven, warming drawer, oven, built in sub zero under counter ice maker with RO water, 4 ft Galley prep sink with dual touch Brizo faucets, and Cambria quartz counter tops. Perfect for entertaining, the kitchen is open to the large family room, the eat in nook and a large sitting area. Beautiful hand scraped hardwood flooring throughout, Lutron lighting with WIFI control, security cameras, security gate, RO water system, and 2 tankless water heaters. Huge owner's suite is a true retreat with tray ceiling, bay window and sitting area, and outdoor access. Ensuite includes two vanities, jetted tub, separate shower, and stunning walk-in closet w/built-ins. Two secondary bedrooms, each equipped with a private bathroom. Beautiful office with large French doors. Laundry room with a sink & cabinetry. Two more bedrooms with an additional bathroom are located near the bonus room with access to the backyard/patio. Step outside to the large extended patio, pergola and built in BBQ area, all equipped with a top of the line misting system. Diving pool with heated spa and water fall. Manicured lawn with irrigation to the perimeter trees. The 1250 sf climate controlled RV garage is the hidden gem of this home. 14 foot tall by 12 foot wide garage door, plumbing, RV hookup, epoxy floor. Centrally located by the 202, Gilbert Regional Park, San Tan Mall, Mercy Medical Corridor, entertainment and dining. This home is a rare find!

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