The #1 Mistake Canby Home Sellers Make (And How to Avoid It in 2025)

If you're thinking of selling your home in Canby, South Clackamas County, or anywhere in the North Willamette Valley, this post might save you more than just money—it could save you serious stress.

It’s surprising how many sellers lose thousands of dollars, not because of the market or their home’s condition, but because of one simple, avoidable mistake: pricing based on emotion or outdated information.

Let’s break down why this happens, how it impacts your sale in today’s shifting market—and what you can do instead to sell smarter in 2025.

Pricing with Emotion: A Seller’s Pitfall

When you’ve poured years—or even decades—of memories, money, and love into a home, it’s natural to feel like it’s worth more. Maybe you renovated the kitchen. Maybe you raised a family there. But here’s the truth:

Buyers aren’t buying your memories. They’re buying based on value today.

They don’t care what you spent on custom countertops or how much your neighbor’s home sold for two years ago. What they do care about is what else they can get for that price—right now.

Understanding the 2025 Market in Canby and Beyond

The real estate market across Canby and the North Willamette Valley is cooling compared to this time last year:

• Longer days on market

• More price reductions

• Fewer bidding wars

• Buyers moving slowly and cautiously

With rising inventory, buyers have options—and time. That means you must price your home competitively from day one and present it in a way that connects emotionally.

Don’t Just List It—Prepare It

Too many sellers take a “post and pray” approach. But in this market, that won’t cut it.

You need to prepare your home for today’s buyer—someone who’s not just looking for a house, but for a lifestyle.

Here’s what that looks like:

✅ Boost Your Curb Appeal

• Power wash the walkway

• Trim overgrown bushes

• Add fresh plants or flowers

• Repaint the front door

First impressions are made before buyers even step inside.

✅ Declutter & Neutralize the Interior

• Less is more—highlight the space, not your stuff

• Use light, neutral colors

• Let natural light in wherever possible

✅ Small Fixes Make a Big Difference

• Fix dripping faucets

• Replace burned-out bulbs

• Ensure HVAC, appliances, and plumbing are in good shape

Even minor issues can make buyers wonder what’s lurking beneath the surface. In a slower market, these little red flags can stall or sink a sale.

✅ Strategic Staging

Whether you use a professional or just re-style with what you have, staging works. It helps buyers emotionally connect and imagine themselves in the home—especially in character-rich homes across Canby, like farmhouses, ranches, or newer builds.

How I Help My Sellers Avoid These Mistakes

As a local real estate expert based in Canby, I provide:

• 🔍 Hyper-local pricing analysis (not just what's sold—but what's sitting)

• 🛠️ Guidance on smart, strategic home prep

• 🧠 Insights into buyer behavior and what’s really moving the needle

• 🎯 Tailored marketing plans to reach and resonate with today’s buyers

You only get one shot to make a strong impression. Let’s make it count.

Let’s Avoid That Expensive Mistake Together

If you’re thinking about selling—or even just starting to explore the idea—let’s connect. I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, with clarity and confidence, so you can move forward with peace of mind and maximize your return.

📱 Scan the QR code or [reach out here] to start the conversation.

I’m Jennifer Schurter, your Canby-based real estate expert serving South Clackamas County and the North Willamette Valley, and I’d be honored to help you make the smartest move possible.