Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make — and it’s also one of the most emotional. Whether you’ve lived in your house for two years or twenty, it’s natural to want to get the best possible price.

But even in a strong market, some sellers make avoidable mistakes that can cost them time and money. At Goodfellow Realty, we’ve seen firsthand what separates smooth, profitable sales from stressful ones. Here are five common mistakes Manitoba home sellers make — and how you can avoid them.

1. Overpricing Your Home

It’s tempting to “test the market” with a higher price — especially if your neighbour’s house sold quickly. But overpricing is one of the biggest reasons listings sit longer than they should.

Buyers today are savvy. They compare homes online, and if yours is priced above market value, it often gets overlooked. The result? Fewer showings, more days on the market, and ultimately, a lower sale price after price reductions.

How to avoid it: Work with a Realtor who knows your neighbourhood inside and out. We use current market data, recent sales, and buyer demand trends to price your home competitively — and strategically — from day one.

Some other topics you might find helpful when thinking about selling a home in Manitoba. Find out in the posts below:

• 5 Stress-Reducing Tips When Selling Your Home in Winnipeg
• Navigating the Emotional Terrain: Considerations for Selling Your Parent’s Home in Winnipeg
• Should I Renovate My Home Before Selling?

2. Skipping Staging or Minor Repairs

First impressions matter. A home that feels fresh, bright, and move-in ready always photographs and shows better than one that feels dated or cluttered.

Simple fixes like fresh paint, decluttering, or replacing outdated fixtures can make a huge difference. Professionally staged homes consistently sell faster and for higher prices — especially when paired with quality photos.

How to avoid it: Ask your Realtor for staging advice or a trusted professional referral. Many agents (including us!) offer complimentary consultations to help highlight your home’s best features.

3. Using Low-Quality Photos or Marketing

Your online listing is your home’s first showing — and you only get one chance to make an impression. Dark, blurry photos or a lack of marketing exposure can severely limit buyer interest.

How to avoid it: Choose a Realtor who invests in professional photography, video tours, and strong digital marketing. At Goodfellow Realty, we use high-impact visuals, social media promotion, and detailed property descriptions to make your home stand out.

Looking for even more resources for a streamlined home selling experience? The posts below will get you started:

• Should You Work With a Full Time Realtor® When Buying or Selling?
• Is Staging Really Necessary When Selling Your Winnipeg Home?
• Why Professional Photos Matter When You’re Selling Your Home

4. Ignoring Market Timing

Spring and early fall are traditionally the busiest times for Manitoba real estate, but local demand can shift quickly. Listing at the wrong time — or waiting too long — can mean fewer buyers and more competition.

How to avoid it: Talk to your Realtor early, even if you’re just starting to think about selling. We’ll help you identify the right window for your neighbourhood and plan a marketing strategy to hit the market at the perfect moment.

5. Choosing the Wrong Realtor

Not all agents have the same experience, availability, or marketing approach. Choosing a part-time agent or someone unfamiliar with your area can lead to missed opportunities.

How to avoid it: Look for a full-time Realtor with proven local results and a strong track record. Ask how they plan to market your home, how often they communicate, and what results they’ve achieved in your area.

At Goodfellow Realty, selling homes is our full-time business — and our passion. We live, work, and serve right here in your community, giving you the advantage of true neighbourhood expertise.

Thinking About Selling? Let’s Talk Strategy.

Whether you’re curious about your home’s current value or planning a move in the coming months, we’d love to help you get started with a free, no-obligation home evaluation.

Let’s make your next move your best one.

📞 Contact us today for expert real estate advice tailored to selling your home in Winnipeg. Contact us by email info@goodfellowrealty.com or call 204-224-2551