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

Multifamily

Commercial

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

Location Search Nearby

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

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

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

Address, MLS# or Keyword

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+

View As: Thumbnails List

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

2912 E Houston Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,799,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769708

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Country Paradise hidden in the city! Nestled on over an acre of lush greenery, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom dream home is surrounded by 55+ irrigated trees, including mature oaks, ash, and fruit-producing orange, lemon, tangerine, grapefruit, peach, and plum trees. Summers feel cooler amidst the natural beauty. The master suite is conveniently located on the main floor. The recently updated exterior boasts new siding and a redone front porch (2023). Inside, the kitchen shines with white cabinets, soapstone countertops, and a full-sized refrigerator/freezer. The family and dining rooms feature gorgeous wood beams and hardwood floors throughout. A red barn 4-car garage with a 220V outlet and a covered horse stall complete this incredible property. This one is unique come and see it!

View Property

4222 E Mclellan Circle Unit 7 Mesa, AZ 85205

$1,799,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

5,542 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753092

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to an exquisite gated estate that epitomizes luxury living, nestled on a sprawling three-quarter acre lot. This stunning property is a true sanctuary, featuring an array of custom designs and high-end finishes that cater to the most discerning tastes.As you enter through the grand gates, you are greeted by meticulously landscaped grounds that set the tone for the elegance that awaits. The estate boasts spacious guest quarters, providing an ideal retreat for visitors while ensuring their privacy and comfort.Step inside to discover a breathtaking interior that seamlessly blends sophistication with warmth. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, a chef's dream equipped with walnut and leathered marble countertops, complemented by a custom backsplash that adds a touch of artistry to the space. A state-of-the-art wine storage closet is perfectly situated, making it easy to store and showcase your finest vintages.The open-concept living areas are designed for both relaxation and entertaining, featuring multiple indoor fireplaces that create a cozy ambiance throughout the seasons. Large windows flood the space with natural light, offering picturesque views of the lush surroundings.Venture outdoors to experience your personal paradise. The backyard is a true highlight, featuring a stunning pool and spa that invite you to unwind and soak up the sun. The meticulously designed turf area provides a lush, green space for outdoor activities, while multiple outdoor fireplaces create inviting spots for gatherings under the stars. Every corner of this estate is adorned with custom upgrades, from elegant lighting fixtures to exquisite flooring, ensuring that no detail has been overlooked. The seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces makes this home perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying peaceful family moments. This sprawling gated estate is more than just a home; it is a lifestyle. With its luxurious amenities, custom designs, and serene surroundings!

View Property

2522 E Turnberry Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,799,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,847 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780298

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into a dream home that feels like it's straight out of a Pottery Barn catalog. This immaculate 2018 Toll Bros semi-custom is a stunning display of designer finishes & thoughtful upgrades. Nestled in the exclusive, gated Calliandra Estates, this home offers the luxury of single-story living in a serene, upscale community. The open, split floor plan features vaulted ceilings, a custom double corner slider, & North-South exposure, creating a perfect setting for year-round entertaining. Outdoors, a resort-inspired backyard boasts a swim-up bar, sunken kitchen, complete w/ SS, custom lighting, BBQ, kegerator, imported pizza oven, & a big screen TV for the ultimate in alfresco dining & relaxation. The chef's kitchen is a true highlight, featuring a gas range, expanded cabinetry & luxury.

View Property

6525 E Cave Creek Road Unit 4 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,799,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,477 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769048

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LUXURY LIVING IN PRIME CAVE CREEK LOCATION WITH PRIVATE ELEVATOR-Discover Modern Elegance at Hidden Rock in a prime Cave Creek location! Situated at the base of Black Mountain, this stunning former model home perfectly blends contemporary style with Southwest charm. Step inside to be greeted by soaring ceilings and a breathtaking 22-foot gas fireplace. The 400-bottle wine wall is a focal point, complementing the chef's kitchen featuring a large granite waterfall island, Thermador stainless steel appliances, a gas cooktop, built-in espresso machine, and custom bookend cabinetry. The main level boasts a luxurious master suite with a spa-like bath designed for relaxation. A generously sized guest bedroom with an ensuite bath offers comfort and privacy. Ascend via your private elevator to the spacious second primary suite, complete with its own private balcony showcasing captivating mountain views. On this upper level, enjoy a versatile media room or additional ensuite bedroom, wet bar, and an open loft that leads to a large patio perfect for soaking in spectacular sunsets. The expansive, enclosed backyard is an entertainer's dream, featuring a gas fireplace and built-in BBQ. Close proximity to the community pool and cute walk way right to the Grotto. Amazing location walking distance to many trails, bars, restaurants, and shopping! Experience the best of modern luxury living and Southwest serenity at this Hidden Rock beauty!

View Property

3089 S Prospector Circle Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,799,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,072 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6142764

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Build your Dream Home in Prospector Village at Superstition Mountain Golf and Country Club. Top of the line Luxury Finishes. Lot 5 (Golf Course Lot). Two single level 3,000+sqft, 3Bdrm + Den 3.5 Bath floor-plans available. Three car garage option. Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club is a private guard gated community with two Jack Nicklaus courses, magnificent clubhouse, sports club with swim/tennis/fitness and so much more! Built by Landmark Custom Home Builders. Photos are of previous models. Prices are subject to change

View Property

3119 S Prospector Circle Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,799,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,072 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6142777

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Build your Dream Home in Prospector Village at Superstition Mountain Golf and Country Club. Top of the line Luxury Finishes. Lot 3 (Golf Course Lot). Two single level 3,000+sqft, 3Bdrm + Den 3.5 Bath floor-plans available. Three car garage option. Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club is a private guard gated community with two Jack Nicklaus courses, magnificent clubhouse, sports club with swim/tennis/fitness and so much more! Built by Landmark Custom Home Builders. Photos are of previous models. Prices are subject to change

View Property

3149 S Prospector Circle Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,799,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,072 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6159305

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Build your Dream Home in Prospector Village at Superstition Mountain Golf and Country Club. Top of the line Luxury Finishes. Lot 1 (Golf Course Lot). Two single level 3,000+sqft, 3Bdrm + Den 3.5 Bath floor-plans available. Three car garage option. Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club is a private guard gated community with two Jack Nicklaus courses, magnificent clubhouse, sports club with swim/tennis/fitness and so much more! Built by Landmark Custom Home Builders. Photos are of previous models. Prices are subject to change

View Property

6347 E Old West Way Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,799,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,984 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6720526

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Custom home / horse property greets you with pillars both inside & out along with a large arched wooden door, and THE view! 4 bedrooms (plus 2 office/den spaces) & 3 bathrooms. Lovely open floor plan with an entertainer's dream bar & mini fridge. The solar panels are owned making this the catch of the year keeping this high vaulted & flat ceiling space cooled. The 3 car garage with cabinets wrapped around is a dream workspace & parking area with an added work room/office attached. There is gated trailer parking just to the side of the garage. As we make our way outside we find resort style landscaping, an outdoor grill station, pebble tec pool + spa, & a putting green. Just further is a Priefert custom 5 stall barn, shavings area, indoor tack room, sand arena, sprinklers & more!

View Property

8300 E Dixileta Drive Unit 253 Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,799,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,586 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726059

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Sunlit sanctuary nestled in the prestigious fire-wise, guarded community of Sincuidados, close to golfing & hiking trails. This custom luxury home, on an acre+ interior lot, features a Split open floor plan w/several room options to suit your needs; a private home office attached to the primary bedroom; 2 new A/C's; 4 gas fireplaces; huge covered patio; built-in BBQ; formal dining room; multi-room surround sound system; spacious kitchen w/lots of counter space & large center island great for entertaining; wine fridge; wood shutters; gorgeous stone decorator features; billiard parlor w/ 9 ft table; and a rooftop deck w/panoramic views of mountains & city lights. Daily visits of birds, bunnies, and other wildlife are an added bonus to this relaxing southwest home!

View Property

4330 W Box Elder Lane Show Low, AZ 85901

$1,799,000

6 Beds

6 Baths

4,500 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6724011

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow!! This is the pride of Torreon and can now be yours. This fantastic house has so many extras it will be hard to mention even a few of them. This 6 bedroom 6 bath home was built with the highest quality amenities throughout the home. Quartz countertops throughout, high end gas range, 2 tankless water heaters. soft water system, 2 hvac systems 5/8 inch fire rated drywall , tons of storage, 2 laundry rooms, it has a hardwired alarm system and intercom for all bedrooms and back deck, 2000 sq ft of t&g wood ceilings also features a 5 car garage with its own bathroom! This home has 6000 sq ft of pavers in the front and back with its own gas firepit, looking at the prettiest golf holes in Torreon #15 on the Tower course, looking at the green and pond.

View Property

40167 N 110th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,799,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,454 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735429

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A Desert Mountain Lifestyle Membership is available to be transferred with this property. Situated on the 1st fairway of the Apache Golf Course at the world-renowned Desert Mountain Club, this property will impress with its stunning golf course views, expansive wall-to-wall windows, soaring 12' viga ceilings, alder woodwork, multiple fireplaces and hardwood floors. Your eye will be drawn to the stunning views of the golf course to the East and the mountain, sunset and city light views to the West. This North Scottsdale upgraded Cielo model patio home features an open great room floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2,454 sq. ft. all on one level. The modern southwest architectural feel and the natural light interior throughout offers a high-end custom feel. The updated kitchen showcases stainless steel appliances with a gas cooktop, double ovens, copper backsplash, granite countertops, breakfast bar, and casual dining nook with custom built-in kitchen seating. Exterior features include large covered patios with lounging areas and banco seating, private spa, updated built-in BBQ grill, view fence, lush landscaping and a two car attached garage with epoxy flooring. A portion of the additional upgrades include roof coating, skylights, HVAC, tankless water heater, water softener and garage cabinets. The Village of Apache Cottages provides a private village pool and lounging area for residents.

View Property

19899 E Natalie Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,799,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,269 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725556

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LAST NEW HOME AVAILABLE!! 5.99% Available on this Brand New Toll Brothers Home. Prime Location and Private Gated Community at Whitewing at Whisper Ranch Community allows Guest Homes, RV Garages and Casitas to be built on this Large 22,578sq ft Oversized Lot! Home is Located across from the Community Center and Large Greenbelt. Located in Queen Creek AZ with Stunning Multi Million Dollar Homes, Mountain Views, Green Belts, Outdoor Firepits and Covered Sitting Areas! The Home Boasts an attached Casita with Separate Entrance. 14ft Soaring Ceilings in Great Room and Multiple Sliding Walls of Glass Doors create an Expansive Living Space with Natural Light. The Book Matched Taj Mahal Quartzite is Gorgeous! The Chefs Kitchen with Large Oversized Island is the Heart of this Luxury Home.

View Property