Selling your home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make – emotionally, financially and practically. And when the time comes, every detail counts.
Here in Cardiff, we see all kinds of property transactions. Some sail through. Others hit bumps that could’ve been avoided with the right guidance.
If you’re thinking of selling your home in Cardiff, or already have it on the market, take a look at these 7 common mistakes sellers often make – and how you can steer clear of them.
- Overpricing the property
It’s completely natural to want the best possible price for your home. But setting the price too high can put buyers off from the start – especially in today’s cautious market.
Why it matters in Cardiff:
Buyers in areas like Pontcanna, Roath, or Llandaff are well-researched and often compare several properties at once. If yours seems overpriced, it may sit on the market longer, leading to price reductions that damage confidence.
How to avoid it:
Get a realistic valuation from a local expert – not just an online estimate. At Martin & Co Cardiff, we use recent sales data and market trends specific to your street, not just your postcode. A fair asking price gets you more interest and stronger offers.
2. Neglecting kerb appeal
First impressions matter. And that starts from the pavement.
A cracked driveway, overgrown garden or flaking paint on the front door can make potential buyers hesitate – even before they’ve stepped inside.
Why it matters in Cardiff:
In more traditional areas like Canton or Grangetown, where terraced homes are packed close together, small details really stand out. A tidy, welcoming exterior can help your property rise above the competition.
How to avoid it:
Spend a little time and effort on the basics:
- Trim hedges and lawns
- Repaint or clean the front door
- Replace tired house numbers or letterboxes
- Keep bins tucked out of sight on viewing days
It doesn’t have to cost much – but it shows buyers you’ve looked after the place.
3. Using poor-quality photos
Most buyers in Cardiff start their property search online. So your photos need to do the talking.
Dark, blurry or cluttered shots can mean your listing gets ignored – even if the home itself is lovely.
Why it matters in Cardiff:
From city-centre flats to bay-fronted Victorian homes, good photography helps showcase your property’s best features – whether that’s high ceilings, original fireplaces or a bright kitchen-diner.
How to avoid it:
Work with an agent who takes professional-quality images, ideally with wide-angle lenses and good lighting. At Martin & Co, we help you stage each room before photos are taken – to capture the space at its best.
4. Not being ready for viewings
Your home might look fine day-to-day – but buyers notice more than you think. Messy rooms, odd smells or half-done DIY jobs can all put people off.
Why it matters in Cardiff:
The Cardiff market is competitive, and buyers often view several homes in a single day. If yours isn’t spotless and welcoming, you may lose their interest fast.
How to avoid it:
Before each viewing:
- Open curtains for natural light
- Let in fresh air (especially in kitchens or bathrooms)
- Tidy surfaces, make beds, and clear away clutter
- Turn on lamps for a cosy feel in darker rooms
And if you’ve got pets, consider taking them out for a walk while viewings take place.
5. Choosing the wrong estate agent
Not all agents are the same. Some focus more on listings than service. Others might not have strong local knowledge – or the time to follow up with serious buyers.
Why it matters in Cardiff:
From Cathays student lets to family homes in Heath, each area has its own buyer profile. You need an agent who truly understands your patch – not just someone who covers it on paper.
How to avoid it:
Look for an agent who:
- Knows your local market
- Offers honest advice (not just flattery)
- Provides regular updates and clear communication
- Has a track record of recent sales in your area
At Martin & Co Cardiff, we pride ourselves on a personalised, proactive approach – no pushy sales pitch, just local expertise and full support.
6. Ignoring small repairs
Buyers spot problems quickly – and often overestimate how much it’ll cost to fix them. A dripping tap, broken cupboard door or mouldy bathroom sealant can give the impression of poor upkeep.
Why it matters in Cardiff:
In older Cardiff homes, minor wear and tear is expected – but if you ignore simple fixes, buyers may assume there are bigger problems lurking.
How to avoid it:
Take a weekend to go through the property and make a list of easy-to-do repairs. Replace missing tiles, touch up scuffed paint, tighten handles – and clean thoroughly.
These little jobs can go a long way toward creating a ‘move-in ready’ feel.
7. Letting emotions get in the way
Selling your home can feel personal – especially if it’s where you raised a family, or your first home. But emotions can cloud judgement when negotiating or receiving feedback.
Why it matters in Cardiff:
In a fast-paced or price-sensitive market, flexibility is often the key to a successful sale. Sticking rigidly to your expectations can hold you back – especially if buyers need to move quickly or make a slightly lower offer.
How to avoid it:
Try to approach the process as a business decision. Trust your agent’s advice, and remember: the goal is to sell to the right buyer, at the right time, for the best achievable price – not just the highest one on paper.
Final word: sell smart, not fast
Selling your home isn’t about luck – it’s about preparation. And in a busy, vibrant city like Cardiff, that means thinking like a buyer.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll:
- Attract more interest
- Get better offers
- And enjoy a smoother sale from start to finish
At Martin & Co Cardiff, we’ll guide you every step of the way – with practical advice, expert marketing and honest support tailored to your local area.
Ready to sell, or just want to know what your home is worth?
Book a free, no-obligation valuation with our local team today
