5 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a House in Surrey
Written by Sukh Brar
August 26, 2025
Avoid five common mistakes when selling your Surrey, BC home, like overpricing, poor staging, or bad timing, and learn how to sell smarter.
Selling a house in Surrey, British Columbia, is an exciting step, but it also comes with challenges. Your property is likely one of your biggest financial assets, so small mistakes can have a big impact on how quickly it sells and at what price. Many house owners enter the market with confidence, only to discover that the wrong move can cost them time, money, or even legal trouble.
If you’re planning to sell your house, here are five mistakes to avoid and how to handle the process the right way.
How Can I Sell My Home Fast
If you want to sell your home quickly, focus on price, presentation, and marketing. Price it right from the start by comparing recent sales in the area. Boost curb appeal keep the exterior neat, add fresh paint, and tidy up landscaping. Inside, declutter, clean, and stage key rooms so buyers can imagine themselves living there. Finally, use high-quality photos, list on top real estate sites, and consider a professional agent who can run open houses and promote your property effectively.
Setting the Wrong Price
One of the most common mistakes sellers make is overpricing their house. It’s natural to want top dollar, especially if you’ve spent years building memories and investing in improvements. But emotional value does not always match market value. In Surrey’s competitive housing market, buyers are well-informed and often compare similar listings. An overpriced house may sit on the market for too long, forcing price reductions that make it look less attractive.
How to avoid this mistake:
Work with a local real estate professional to complete a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This compares your property with recently sold houses in your neighbourhood. Pricing your house realistically creates more interest, often leading to multiple offers and a stronger final sale price.
Ignoring Staging and Curb Appeal
First impressions count. A messy yard, outdated decor, or cluttered rooms can make it harder for buyers to see the true value of your property. Many sellers underestimate how much staging and presentation matter. Poor staging can make rooms look smaller, darker, or less inviting, reducing the chances of receiving serious offers.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Start with curb appeal: mow the lawn, trim hedges, plant flowers, and consider repainting the front door.
- Inside, declutter and remove personal items like family photos. This helps buyers picture themselves living in space.
- Use neutral colours and proper lighting to make rooms appear brighter and more spacious.
- If possible, hire a professional stager who knows what attracts Surrey buyers.
- A staged house not only photographs better online but also makes open houses far more effective.
Choosing the Wrong Time to Sell
Another mistake is listing at the wrong time of year. While houses sell year-round, certain seasons attract more buyers. For example, the Surrey market is usually more active in spring and summer when families prefer to move before the new school year. Listing in a slower season, like deep winter, can reduce buyer demand and affect the offers you receive.
How to avoid this mistake:
Discuss timing with your real estate agent. If you must sell in a slower season, make your house stand out with excellent marketing, staging, and competitive pricing. But whenever possible, plan ahead so your listing goes live during peak market activity.
Overlooking Legal Disclosures and BC Real Estate Requirements
Failing to follow British Columbia real estate laws can create serious problems for sellers. In BC, house owners are required to complete a Property Disclosure Statement (PDS). This document outlines known issues such as past water damage, electrical problems, or structural concerns. Some sellers try to hide issues, but this can lead to legal disputes or even cancelled sales.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Always be transparent and honest in your disclosures.
- Work with a licensed real estate professional who understands BC’s real estate rules
- Consult a real estate lawyer if you are unsure about your obligations
By being upfront, you build trust with buyers and protect yourself from future liability. In Surrey’s market, honesty often results in smoother negotiations and faster closings.
Trying to Sell Without Professional Help
Many sellers think they can save money by avoiding real estate agents or lawyers. While this may seem cost-effective, it can lead to costly errors. Without professional guidance, you may misprice your house, miss legal requirements, or struggle with negotiations. Selling involves more than just listing a property; it requires marketing, paperwork, and a clear understanding of BC’s property transfer rules.
How to avoid this mistake:
Build a team of professionals to support your sale:
- Real estate agent: Markets your house, sets the right price, and negotiates offers.
- Real estate lawyer: Reviews contracts, ensures compliance with provincial laws, and helps with closing.
- Inspectors and stagers: Identify issues early and make your house more attractive to buyers.
This professional support can prevent mistakes, reduce stress, and often lead to higher net returns.
Final Thoughts
Selling a house in Surrey doesn’t have to be stressful, but avoiding these five mistakes can make the process much smoother. Price your house realistically, make it shine with staging, time your sale wisely, follow BC’s disclosure laws, and rely on professionals who know the market.
At Sukh Brar Real Estate Group, we understand that every house sale is unique. Our team is here to guide you through each step, ensuring your sale is handled with care, compliance, and expert strategy. Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, or relocating, we’ll help you sell your Surrey house the smart way with confidence and peace of mind.
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