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

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2626 E Arizona Biltmore Circle Unit 6 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,477,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,913 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773162

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

The secluded Biltmore Square at the Biltmore. Completely remodeled in 2021 including newly applied smooth exterior stucco. Photographs do not do this home justice - you have to see it to believe it! Minutes walk from the Biltmore, Camelback shopping and restaurants, and canal walking/jogging path. Beautifully maintained common areas and pool. NOTE: LISTING BROKER RELATED TO SELLER

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6918 N 178th Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,475,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,834 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762928

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Brand new home full of custom finishes throughout. Situated on an acre lot with access to flood irrigation in the backyard. NO HOA. Fully landscaped front yard with oversized driveway and plenty of room for all your needs. You do not want to miss this one!

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2875 S Azurite Street Dewey, AZ 86327

$1,475,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,742 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6658738

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a one-of-a-kind, fully sustainable and luxurious estate, perfect for multi-generational living, business and church retreats, or as a unique party venue, etc. Nestled on 4+ serene acres, the expansive grounds are a true oasis with the added benefit of a private pond, boasting over 2,000 fish. The lush landscape includes a variety of fruit trees and many raised garden beds to plant your favorites, while two workshops with electricity provide ample space for any hobby or entrepreneurial endeavor. Read to the END! A grandiose stairway leading to the stunning rain glass double doors entering the main house that features 4 bedrooms, including two master suites, and 3 bathrooms, AND a lower level in-law suite with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and full kitchen for additional privacy and comfort. The new appliances, oversized L-shaped quartz kitchen counter, and custom Forno fridge make the kitchen a chef's dream. For endless entertainment and relaxation, the indoor heated pool with diving board, jacuzzi, sauna and ¾ bathroom are sure to please. Also, offering a projector with screen and elevated deck with hood vent for BBQing. A separate 2,900 square foot guest house, along with a cozy studio apartment, provide even more space for family, friends, or potential renters. Attached is a RV garage and an oil change pit for the mechanics out there. For outdoor enthusiasts, the sand volleyball court is a fantastic addition. The electric gated entry to the partially fenced private yard, and lack of HOA and CCRs allow for a truly unique living experience. Notable features include solar power, a private well with new pump and pressure tanks and city water, brand new roof on both homes, new 5-ton and 3.5-ton AC units, and propane tankless water heater for the main house. New split units in the guest house and new electric water heater. Experience the ultimate in luxury, sustainability, and versatility in this unparalleled estate ensuring self-sufficiency and eco-friendliness. All in a breathtaking Arizona setting, only 30 mins from the Prescott Courthouse Square and 50 mins from Anthem's outlet mall.

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Show Low AZ 85901

$1,475,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760708

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come and experience ''Mountain Luxury'' in this meticulously maintained custom built home with breath taking views of the fairway! FULLY FURNISHED with attention to every detail. Boasting 3 Master Suites, Gourmet Kitchen w/Subzero Frig, Lg Walk-In Pantry, Game Rm w/Bar, Flex Rm/w Murphy bed & more!

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7131 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 2011 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,475,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,886 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6637093

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Located near Old Town Scottsdale in the Optima Camelview, this urban residence is the essence of modern city living. Thoughtfully designed, this haven offers comfort and style bathed in natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows and captivating views of one of the community pool areas from two private balconies. Three generously sized bedrooms are perfect for relaxation while the bathrooms offer premium fixtures and finishes. The kitchen is equipped with sleek cabinetry, stainless appliances and offers plenty of space for culinary exploration. Residents of Optima can enjoy amenities such as the state-of-the-art fitness center, multiple pools and spas, and the lush landscaped gardens. The prime location is moments away from fine dining, shopping, entertainment and the best that Scottsdale has to offer. The community also offers 24-hour security and underground parking.

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8028 E Vista Canyon Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$1,475,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,690 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780826

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover unparalleled Valley views in the prestigious Las Sendas community! This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath, single-level gem spans 3,690 sq. ft. and offers a spacious 0.328-acre lot with a 3-car garage. Experience Arizona's breathtaking sunsets from your private backyard retreat, complete with sweeping mountain and city light vistas, highlighting the beauty of the Phoenix skyline. An elegant gated courtyard introduces you to a thoughtfully designed split floorplan with seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The expansive backyard is an entertainer's dream, featuring a pristine pool and spa with LED lighting, fire pots, water features, a raised seating area with a gas firepit, and a putting green with stunning Red Mountain views. Luxurious travertine pavers, a...CONTINUE READING... ...misting system, and motorized shade screens provide ultimate comfort, while a sunken outdoor kitchen with a Viking grill, fridge, ice maker, and poolside bar seating elevates the experience. The side yard offers a grassy area for pets or play, alongside fruit trees for added charm. Inside, enjoy soaring ceilings, custom coffer detailing, plantation shutters, and two cantera fireplaces. An additional room serves perfectly as an office or bonus space, and the secluded owner's suite is a true retreat with its cozy fireplace, spa-like bath, and expansive walk-in closet. The gourmet kitchen boasts maple cabinetry, a large island, granite counters, and high-end Jenn-Air Noir Series appliances. The 3-car tandem garage includes a bay with over-height ceilings and a 220V outlet for easy car charging, ideal for extra storage or 'toys.' Las Sendas offers top-tier amenities including award-winning golf, miles of trails, tennis, pickleball, pools, parks, a community restaurant, and a fitness center. Situated near top-rated schools, major freeways, airports, and outdoor recreation like hiking and lakes, this home is a rare find with access to both natural beauty and city conveniences.

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8020 E Del Laton Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,475,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766343

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is the home you have been waiting for! Completely reconceived with euro-modern design elements in the sought-after McCormick Ranch area! Entry wows with a tongue and groove ceiling, custom-designed frosted glass door entry, and a lovely, paved front sitting area for experiencing the beautiful AZ sunsets. Enjoy the simplicity of a Eurocentric kitchen design style with exquisite flat slab quartz, mixed wood elements, and sleek modern cabinets with under-lighting for added ambiance. Appliances that thrill any seasoned chef, and a glass-encased wine closet for the wine connoisseur to show off their prized collection. Striking custom elements set this home apart from all others, from lighted niches, French-inspired glass barn doors, and a marble floor-to-ceiling linear fireplace to enjoy quiet evenings or entertain guests. The extended glass-enclosed patio adds additional entertaining space and looks out to the large lush yard with a sparkling pool. Close to parks, bike trails, coffee shops, restaurants, and shopping. Don't miss out!

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26441 N Trails End -- Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,475,000

3 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,444 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768882

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Views. Views. Views. Perfect location on the Quail Run golf course with expansive fairway panoramas. Contemporary design with many architectural enhancements. (Please see Virtual Tour under Photos Tab). Huge family room with convenient, bright and open kitchen for easy entertaining. Family room opens to patios and the great outdoors. Three bedrooms and four full baths plus a powder room. Huge laundry/hobbies room. Office with built-in cabinets. Full three car garage with built in cabinets. Rio Verde is a planned community for active adults over 55. Golf, tennis, swimming, hiking, biking, fresh clean air, starry nights in the friendliest golf community in Arizona. Come enjoy the fun

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5485 W Bruno Canyon Drive Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,475,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,608 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773967

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxurious custom home on a .80-acre corner lot with captivating Granite Mountain views. This impeccable 3-bedroom plus office offers high-end finishes throughout and is located near the clubhouse. The exterior boasts upgraded landscaping, a front fenced courtyard, an extended rear patio, a gas fire pit, and a large covered patio. Inside, enjoy a spacious kitchen with custom cabinets, GE Profile appliances, and a walk-in pantry. The primary suite features a sliding door to the patio, a walk-in shower, soaking tub, and direct access to the laundry room. Plus, an oversized 3-car garage with a sauna. Talking Rock is a gated private community for members only. Amenities include: award winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, The Ranch House restaurant and bar, Coop's Coffee House fitness center, bocce, pickle ball courts, tennis court, pool and dog park.

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3916 E Encanto Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$1,475,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,982 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780417

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxury living in Trovita Estates at its finest! This gorgeous residence is in one of Mesa's most prestigious communities! You'll be welcomed by an exquisite curb appeal complemented by stone accents, a carefully manicured landscape, 4 car garage, RV gate, and pavers. Understated elegance & subtle modernity seamlessly mix in this breathtaking open floor plan showcasing tall ceilings, recessed lighting, custom palette, and wood-plank tile flooring. The spacious living room features a delightful wagon wheel chandelier, a gas fireplace, and window seats. The multi-sliding glass doors connect indoor and outdoor living, promoting easy entertaining and quick access to your own private backyard paradise featuring a relaxing pool and sport court.

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6314 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

$1,475,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,703 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769947

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW. Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO CIELO at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom homes offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes... 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!

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10613 E Diffraction Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,475,000

6 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6663410

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This BEAUTIFUL home w/CASITA is OVERFLOWING w/DESIGNER upgrades!! GOURMET kitchen w/granite countertops, HUGE island w/sink, tiled backsplash, 42'' cabinets + stainless appliance suite w/wall ovens! Open concept great room w/GORGEOUS built-in entertainment center w/STONE gas FIREPLACE! PRIVATE owner's suite w/sitting room + ensuite bath, BIG walk-in shower + soaking tub! Separate den! Loft! Media room! CASITA w/kitchen, bedroom, living room, bath, laundry + separate entrance! SO many living options in this multi generation home! FANTASTIC backyard OASIS w/built-in swimming pool w/waterfall, fire features, pergola w/sunken kitchen + swim up seating/counter, gas fire pit, pavers/faux grass + covered porch & balcony! This is true LUXURY LIVING! Located in award winning EASTMARK! WELCOME HOME

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