A few short years ago, sellers had no problem making deals to sell their home. It is a different story now. There are still a lot of real estate buyers out there, looking for the perfect home. It’s your job as a homeowner to help your real estate agent in every way possible.

Here are seven common mistakes made by sellers of real estate:

1. Don’t be insulted by low offers.
Low bids often turn into an accepted deal. Take each offer seriously because the first offer is often the best. In today’s market, 4 out of 5 Buyers expect a counter offer. The first offer can simply be the start of the conversation.

2. Leave the property during open houses and showings
The Seller / home owner needs to leave the house. A potential Buyer isn’t going to open up closets and medicine cabinets when there. They cannot visualize the home as their own with the current owner milling around. If you have to stay, stay outside or in the smallest most unattractive room. If the prospect asks you a question, be polite yet as curt as possible. Leave questions and answers up to the real estate professional. It is their job to “sell” your home.

3. Clean up the closets.
When a Buyer sees a really clean closet they’ll think the house has been maintained well throughout. A clean and organized closet (what they can see), means what they cannot see, e.g., electrical, wiring, plumbing, et cetera are also in good shape.

4. Make the small, visible repairs now.
Replace light bulbs, repaint, fix cracks, and so on before putting the home on the market. Although most Sellers do not what to put any more money into the home they are trying to sell, they will net more in negotiations if the Buyer does not expect to make these repairs themselves after the sale.

5. Remove the clutter.
Clear off counter tops and put away personal items, e.g., picture frames and nick nacks. A messy room always looks smaller.

6. Invest in quality, professional photography.
With 80% of all Buyers doing their homework online, the old concept of “curb appeal” is now seen through good photography. The first time a Buyer will see your house, will most likely be online, versus driving by. Make sure the photographer uses a wide angle lens and pictures are taken in the right light.

7. Pay a full commission.
There is a lot of inventory right now and real estate professionals can be selective on what homes to show Buyers. In order for your house to be at the front of the line, make sure you pay a full, cooperating broker commission. You do not want to reduce the commission and be put at the back of the line before a potential Buyer has a chance to consider your house. Also, make sure your real estate agent is working for a qualified broker. There are many reputable brokers everywhere. In Nevada, one of the best is Dickson Realty. Just make sure to check the broker, and ask for references.

The housing market in the United States is competitive right now. Hard-hit states like California, Florida and Nevada have different cities where one can list a house and, following the steps above, make a sale. In Nevada, the Reno real estate market has been seeing a lot of sales in the past months, especially compared to Las Vegas.

The rules above also pertain to high-end, luxury real estate. Buyers are people, and people recognize the same things. Luxury communities in the western United States have seen a pick-up in buyer traffic. Montreux real estate sales have been brisk lately, and look to continue. Sellers making deals have followed the rules above. If you wish to make a deal, follow the rules as well!