With the arrival of a new year, the desire to break free from bad habits surfaces—hence the popularity of initiatives like "dry January." However, our vices extend beyond indulging in too much bubbly.

If you've made the decision to sell your home this year, it's crucial to ensure you're in the right mindset to make it happen. Selling a home, even in favorable market conditions, can be a complex and stressful process where sellers might inadvertently resort to misguided tactics that could jeopardize the deal.

Here are six old habits to jettison if you want to get the most for your home in 2024:

Outdated habit No. 1: Attempting to sell your house independently Believing that the home-selling process is already complex, some may resist involving a real estate professional, thinking it would only add to the challenges. However, this misconception needs to be discarded swiftly. Homes for sale by owner rarely sell for the same price it would if listed with an experienced, typically for around 10% less, which is more than typical commissions with an agent.  A listing agent brings not only knowledge and experience but also networking power within the industry, enhancing marketability.  Selling a home on your own puts you at legal risk in an almost endless number of ways.  When you use an agent, they take on the responsibility, effectively shielding you from legal liability. 

Outdated habit No. 2: Solely considering the highest offer While the highest offer may seem enticing, it's essential to consider other factors. Sellers should evaluate the buyer's overall financial stability, contingencies, and the closing timeline. Fran Lisner, a real estate agent with Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty in Long Island, NY, advises sellers to broaden their perspective beyond the price tag to make smarter decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Outdated habit No. 3: Being inflexible with showings Flexibility is key when it comes to accommodating potential buyers' schedules. Being rigid with showings can be a major turnoff for home shoppers. Be the unicorn-friendly seller and show some flexibility. By doing so, sellers can cast a wider net and attract more interested buyers.

Outdated habit No. 4: Assuming a cash offer is always the best While a cash offer may seem like a dream scenario, it's not always the optimal choice. Cash buyers, including investors and iBuyers, may not provide the same level of reassurance as buyers with conventional financing. Viscuso advises sellers not to jump at the chance to take the money and run, emphasizing that a strong buyer with a pre-approval letter can sometimes be more invested in the property.

Outdated habit No. 5: Neglecting minor repairs Making minor repairs might not be the most inspiring task, especially when preparing to leave a home. However, these repairs can contribute to a higher sales price. Sellers are encouraged to take a fresh look at their homes, inside and out, addressing issues like deep cleaning, decluttering, and fixing minor damages.

Outdated habit No. 6: Skipping staging Home staging is not a superfluous step—it can be the key to obtaining the highest price regardless of market conditions. Fran Lisner likens neglecting home staging to serving a gourmet meal on a paper plate—it doesn't do justice to the property. Staging can significantly enhance the appeal of a home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.