7 Things You Should Never Say When Selling Your Home

Most times, when selling your home, it's better to let your real estate agent do the talking with potential buyers. However, there may be moments when it's just you, the buyer, and the buyer's agent having a conversation, so it's important for you to understand what not to say, as well. Most buyers will be looking for an edge in negotiations, and that edge can come from seeking out information that the seller's side would rather not share. Learn how to maintain your leverage and avoid scaring off buyers with our guide to seven things you should never say when selling your home.

1. The Number of People Who Have Viewed the Home
   Buyers will ask how many people have viewed the home as a way to gauge interest when considering their own offer. Some buyers will be looking to pounce on a home with a perceived low interest level, while others might consider a lack of showings as a red flag. It's better to just skip answering the question entirely.
2. How Many Offers You Have Received
   Of course, some buyers will get right to the point and ask how many offers you have received on the home. Answering this question is a bad idea for all of the same reasons that it's best not to say how many people have viewed the home.
3. How Soon You Need/Want to Close
   You may need to close quickly for a variety of legitimate reasons... but the buyer doesn't need to know that's the case. It's hard to avoid the topic of closing once you're deep in negotiations, but that's a subject that your real estate agent can handle when the time is right.
4. That the Home Is in Perfect Condition
   Even if you have worked hard to address every maintenance issue you can find, no home is truly in perfect condition. It may be tempting to tell the buyer that nothing at all is wrong with the home, but that can come back to bite you when it's time for the inspection.
5. Why You Have Decided to Sell
   There are many different reasons to sell a home, and buyers will be looking for an edge by asking why you have decided to sell. Whether you've outgrown the home, had a change in family status, or simply want to live somewhere new, the buyer doesn't need to hear the details from you.
6. Too Much Neighborhood Info
   If a buyer wants to know about nearby attractions or restaurants, that's one thing. If they want to know all the details about your neighbors, how many kids are in the area, or how safe you consider the neighborhood to be, that's a different story. Sometimes, it's better to let buyers research on their own.
7. You Aren't Willing to Negotiate
   As a seller, it is normal to want to maximize your return when selling your home. However, it's important to avoid telling buyers that you won't drop below X price on the home because that is a sign that you may be unwilling to negotiate — both on price and other key concerns.

By understanding what to say and what topics to avoid, you can make it easier to achieve your goals when selling your house. The right real estate agent will act as a buffer between you and potential buyers, but it's always helpful to know exactly what not to say when your agent isn't present.

• Storage Solutions for Homes Without Large Closets
• Planning a Backyard Space for Entertaining
• Easy Ways to Reduce Household Noise Between Rooms
• How to Create a Functional Mudroom in Any Home
• Simple Upgrades That Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
• Smart Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home
• Spring Décor Updates to Brighten Your Home
• Simple Daily Habits to Maintain a Cleaner Home
• Don't Let Winter Win: How to Freeze-Proof Your Garage
• How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

• Winterproofing Windows and Doors: A Guide to Keeping the Cold Out
• How to Future-Proof Your Home for Changing Needs

• What Happens Between Offer Acceptance and Closing
• What First-Time Buyers Should Know About Property Surveys
• How to Spot Renovations Done Without Permits
• What to Know About Homeowners Associations Before You Buy
• Touring Homes With a Critical Eye: What Buyers Often Miss
• How to Evaluate a Neighborhood During Different Times of Day
• The Best Home Styles for Enjoying Spring Weather
• What to Do the First Week in Your New Home
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment

• How to Research Crime and Safety
• What Buyers Need to Know About Home Warranties

• How to Prepare Your Home for Last-Minute Showings
• When a Price Reduction Can Help Restart Buyer Interest
• How Professional Photography Impacts Online Listing Views
• The Hidden Costs Sellers Should Plan For
• What Sellers Should Know About Appraisal Gaps
• How to Prepare Your Home for a Competitive Offer Situation
• Packing Tips for Sellers: Preparing for a Spring Move
• What to Store, Donate, or Toss Before Listing
• What Buyers Notice First in Listing Photos
• How Spring Sellers Can Enter The Market With Confidence

• Tax Considerations Home Sellers Should Know About
• The One-Room-at-a-Time Spring Prep Strategy