Common Home Selling Myths — Debunked
Common Home Selling Myths — Debunked
When you’re ready to sell your home, you’ll hear plenty of advice — from friends, family, neighbors, and even strangers online. Some of it is helpful, but much of it is outdated or based on personal experience rather than current Midwest real estate data.
Following the wrong advice can cost you time, money, and potentially the right buyer.
Below, we’re breaking down the most common home selling myths — and replacing them with facts you can trust to help you sell your house fast in Illinois or Wisconsin.
Myth #1: “Always Price Your Home High to Leave Room for Negotiation”
The truth: Overpricing can cost you buyers and money.
Many Illinois and Wisconsin sellers believe starting high gives them “wiggle room” to negotiate. In reality, overpriced homes often sit longer, making buyers question what’s wrong with the property.
The National Association of Realtors reports that the first 2–3 weeks on the market are when your listing gets the most attention. Miss that window, and you may face price cuts — and a lower final sale price.
Example: If comparable homes in your area are selling for $350,000 and you list at $375,000, you may not even appear in search results for buyers capped at $350K.
Tip: Use a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) from a local IL/WI expert to price competitively from day one.
Myth #2: “You Have to Sell in Spring or Summer”
The truth: Homes sell year-round — and off-season sales have unique advantages.
While spring and summer are busy selling seasons, fall and winter in the Midwest bring less competition. Motivated buyers — often relocating for jobs or life changes — are still active and ready to make offers.
Redfin data shows that while spring listings see higher volume, winter sales can be just as fast, sometimes faster, due to lower inventory.
Example: In cities like Madison, WI, or Naperville, IL, a December listing might face half the competition of a spring one — giving your property a competitive edge.
Tip: Sell when your home is ready, and stage it seasonally (think cozy fireplaces in winter, lush outdoor spaces in summer).
Myth #3: “Renovate Before You Sell to Guarantee a Higher Price”
The truth: Not all updates bring a positive return.
Some upgrades, like a garage door replacement, can yield up to a 194% ROI, according to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report. Others — like luxury kitchen overhauls — often recoup only 50–60% of their cost, especially in Midwest price ranges.
Example: A $50,000 kitchen remodel in a $300K neighborhood may overprice your home for the area.
Tip: Focus on cost-effective updates with strong ROI: fresh paint, modern fixtures, landscaping, and small curb appeal boosts.
Explore our Fix & List program for ways to make smart, targeted updates that increase your selling price without overspending.
Myth #4: “The First Offer is Rarely the Best”
The truth: Early offers can be your strongest.
Serious buyers — especially in competitive Midwest markets — are ready to move quickly when the right home hits the market. Waiting in hopes of a bidding war can lead to lost momentum and weaker offers later.
Example: If your first offer meets your asking price, includes strong financing, and has minimal contingencies, it could be the best deal you’ll get.
Tip: Review all terms, not just price — financing type, contingencies, and closing timelines matter.
Myth #5: “You Don’t Need an Agent — Just List It Yourself”
The truth: FSBO listings often sell for less.
According to NAR’s 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, FSBO homes sell for a median of $310,000 compared to $405,000 for agent-assisted homes. In IL and WI, where market trends shift quickly, MLS exposure and professional marketing can make a major difference.
Example: Many Midwest buyers search through agent-curated MLS alerts. Without that exposure, you may miss out on a large pool of qualified buyers.
Tip: Partnering with an experienced Illinois or Wisconsin real estate professional ensures accurate pricing, strategic marketing, and expert negotiation — all of which can help you sell faster and for more money.
The Bottom Line
Selling a home in Illinois or Wisconsin is a major financial decision — and one that shouldn’t be guided by myths. By using a data-driven approach, listing when it works best for your property, making smart updates, and working with the right team, you can sell faster and more profitably.
Ready to sell your home as-is? We make the process simple and stress-free! At Elevated Home Solutions, we buy homes in any condition, offering a fast and fair cash offer without the need for repairs. Skip the hassle of traditional listings and sell your home as-is today. Contact us now to get started!
