Thinking About Selling? Don't Fall for These Common Myths | Adam Timothy Group

For Sellers • Housing Market Updates

Thinking About Selling? Don't Fall for These Common Myths

Updated January 2026 • Adam Timothy Group

At Adam Timothy Group, we understand that selling your home is a significant decision. Whether you're a first-time seller or a seasoned homeowner, our Seller Resource Center is designed to provide you with the knowledge, tools, and support you need to navigate the selling process with confidence.

From preparing your home for the market to negotiating the best deal, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Explore expert insights, market trends, and step-by-step guides tailored to help you maximize your property's value and make informed decisions. We're committed to ensuring your selling experience is as smooth and successful as possible.

If you're considering a home sale in the near future, preparation is key—but so is separating fact from fiction. Everyone's selling experience is different, and bad advice can cost you time and money. Let's clear up some of the biggest misconceptions.

Myth #1

For Sale By Owner (FSBO) saves you money

It's true you might avoid paying agent commissions, but FSBO often costs sellers far more in missed opportunities. You lose access to professional marketing, staging expertise, and skilled negotiation. The numbers speak for themselves: FSBO homes had a median sale price of $380,000 compared to $435,000 for agent-assisted sales, according to the National Association of Realtors.

$55,000 The median price difference between FSBO and agent-assisted home sales—proving professional representation often pays for itself and more.
Myth #2

Price your home high to leave room for negotiation

An inflated list price can scare away serious buyers, especially if your home stands out as overpriced compared to the neighborhood. We help you set a price based on your home's condition, age, and local sales trends—so it attracts offers instead of turning them away.

Overpriced homes sit on the market longer, often selling for less than they would have if priced correctly from the start. The first two weeks are critical for generating buyer interest.

— National Association of Realtors
Myth #3

Renovate everything before selling

Well-chosen updates can boost appeal, but over-investing right before listing often backfires. Focus on essential repairs and strategic upgrades with proven ROI, rather than pouring money into changes that won't increase your sale price.

Myth #4

You can skip making changes

While not every home needs a full makeover, ignoring major issues or obvious cosmetic flaws can reduce your home's value and delay the sale. A pre-listing inspection can help identify and fix problems before buyers ever see them.

Smart Strategies That Actually Work

Instead of falling for myths, focus on proven strategies that maximize your home's value:

  • Price strategically from day one. Work with a local expert who understands current market conditions and comparable sales in your area.
  • Invest in high-ROI improvements. Fresh paint, professional cleaning, and curb appeal updates often deliver the best return on investment.
  • Stage for success. Homes that are properly staged sell faster and for more money than empty or cluttered properties.
  • Get a pre-listing inspection. Address issues before they become negotiating points for buyers.
  • Market professionally. Professional photography, virtual tours, and strategic marketing expose your home to more qualified buyers.

Key Takeaways

  • FSBO isn't always a money-saver—agent-assisted sales typically net $55,000 more
  • Overpricing backfires—homes priced right from the start sell faster and often for more
  • Strategic updates beat full renovations—focus on high-ROI improvements
  • Don't ignore issues—a pre-listing inspection prevents surprises during negotiations

Bottom Line

Selling doesn't have to be overwhelming—and with the right strategy, it can position you for your next chapter with confidence. If you're planning to sell or thinking about buying your next home, we'd love to guide you through the process from start to finish.

Ready to Sell Your Home with Confidence?

Get a complimentary home valuation and personalized selling strategy from our expert team.

Let's Get Started

Sources

National Association of Realtors 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers • NAR Pricing and Marketing Research • Adam Timothy Group Seller Resource Center

Keep Austin Full of People Who Love It​

We don’t just buy and sell homes. We build community by helping clients find their place in the world.

Timothy Powles and Adam Stanley work together on the Adam Timothy Group at Compass RA and manage AT Real Estate Group LLC, a rental and vacation property investment business. We are about building community. We believe a real estate transaction is an important and extremely significant event but relationships last a lifetime. Our clients, partners, and friends trust us to get to know their story and what is most important to them.  And we work tirelessly to retain that trust.

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