Real Estate Malpractice: 6 Essential Guardrails for Every Listing
In today’s shifting real estate market, the margin for error is razor thin. With softer buyer pools and increased inventory, the difference between a home selling quickly and sitting on the market for months could cost sellers hundreds of thousands of dollars. That’s why it’s time to talk about a growing issue in the industry: Real Estate Malpractice.
What is it? Simply put, it’s the failure to prepare, price, and present a home properly and it’s happening far too often.
Why the Stakes Are Higher Than Ever
In each market, most homes are selling between 106% and 126% of their assessed value. That 20% swing can make or break a seller’s financial outcome. In a competitive or slowing market, this gap becomes even more critical. Doing it right yields strong returns. Doing it wrong? It’s a costly mistake.
Let’s look at the data. In Oakton, Virginia, between $1.5M and $3M:
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20 of 21 homes are currently sitting on the market unsold.
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The only home that sold, 10697 Oakton Ridge, was on the market for 104 days, required four price drops, and ultimately sold for $450,000 below its original list price.
The message is clear: the party is over. It’s no longer enough to list and hope. Success today requires strategy, precision, and preparation.
The 6 Essentials Every Listing Must Have
To avoid real estate malpractice, every listing needs these six non-negotiables:
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Updated Home / Home Prep
First impressions matter. Proper staging, updates, and presentation can dramatically increase perceived value and buyer interest. -
Predictive Analysis
Go beyond comps. Use market trends and buyer behavior data to price strategically and time the listing effectively. -
Pre-Listing Home Inspection
Uncover and address issues before buyers do. This builds trust, shortens negotiation, and supports your asking price. -
Expanded Search Strategy
Say no to exclusive or limited listing exposure. Cast a wide net to attract the most qualified and competitive buyers. -
Contract Strategy
Position your seller to receive multiple offers and negotiate from strength. The right contract terms can be just as important as price. -
No Banks
Cash or strong non-contingent offers should be the priority in today’s market. Financing delays can cost momentum—and the deal.
The Bottom Line for Home Sellers
In today’s market, simply putting your home on the MLS and hoping for the best isn’t enough. With more inventory and fewer buyers, the difference between doing it right and doing it wrong could cost you tens—or even hundreds—of thousands of dollars.
If you’re planning to sell, know that our team follows all six essential steps to protect your investment, attract serious buyers, and position your home to sell quickly and for top dollar.
Don’t leave money on the table. You only get one chance to make a strong first impression—make it count.
Want expert guidance from the pros who know how to win in any market?
Contact The Casey Samson Team today. casey@caseysamson.com or 703-508-2535.
We’ll help you avoid costly mistakes and guide you to a strong, successful sale.
Want to listen instead? Find ‘A Pod of Coffee with Casey’ a real estate based podcast on all major platforms http://www.caseysamson.com/podcast/