Top Mistakes San Marino Home Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Selling a home in San Marino? Don’t leave money on the table. Learn the most common seller mistakes—and how to avoid them—for a smoother, more profitable sale.

📌Prefer a quick read? Scroll down for the short summary version!

1. Overpricing the Home

The Mistake: Many San Marino sellers assume their home is worth more than the market will bear, especially in a luxury market.

Why It’s a Problem: Overpriced homes sit longer, grow stale, and often sell for less in the end.

What to Do Instead:

• Get a professional Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

• Listen to local market trends and recent comps

• Price to attract buyers and spark multiple offers

2. Skimping on Presentation

The Mistake: Not staging or using poor-quality photos.

Why It’s a Problem: First impressions matter, especially in a high-end market like San Marino.

What to Do Instead:

• Professionally stage your home — even partially

• Hire a real estate photographer

• Maximize curb appeal: trim landscaping, clean walkways, and freshen paint

3. Not Disclosing Property Issues

The Mistake: Withholding known defects or issues to avoid repairs.

Why It’s a Problem: California law requires full disclosure, and buyers will likely uncover issues during inspection.

What to Do Instead:

• Be upfront in disclosure forms

• Fix major issues before listing (especially structural, roof, or foundation concerns)

• Consider a pre-inspection report to gain buyer confidence

4. Listing at the Wrong Time

The Mistake: Listing in the off-season or when competition is high.

Why It’s a Problem: Timing impacts visibility, buyer interest, and selling price.

What to Do Instead:

• Spring and early summer are usually ideal in San Marino

• Watch interest rates and market trends

• Consult your agent to time your listing for maximum exposure

5. Working with the Wrong Agent

The Mistake: Hiring a friend or out-of-area agent who doesn’t specialize in San Marino.

Why It’s a Problem: This market is unique — zoning, schools, and buyer expectations matter.

What to Do Instead:

• Choose a local expert with a strong San Marino track record

• Look for someone who knows how to market luxury homes and negotiate high-stakes deals

Final Thoughts

San Marino is a prestigious, high-value market but that doesn’t mean selling is automatic. Avoiding these common mistakes can help you sell faster and for top dollar.

Thinking of selling your San Marino home in 2025? Let’s talk strategy, from pricing to staging to closing, and make sure you’re set up for success.

Quick-read version for busy homeowners

1. Overpricing Your Home

Think your home is worth more? So does everyone.

Fix it: Use local comps, listen to your agent, and price it right to attract real buyers.

2. Poor Photos or No Staging

Dark photos and cluttered rooms turn buyers off — fast.

Fix it: Stage key rooms and hire a real estate photographer. First impressions matter.

3. Hiding Problems

Trying to skip repairs or hide issues? Buyers will find out anyway.

Fix it: Be honest in disclosures. Consider a pre-listing inspection for transparency.

4. Bad Timing

Listing in a slow market or during the holidays? You’ll get fewer offers.

Fix it: Aim for spring or early summer, and consult a local expert on timing.

5. Using the Wrong Agent

A friend from out of town won’t cut it here.

Fix it: Hire a San Marino specialist who knows the local luxury market and buyer pool.

Thinking about selling your San Marino home? Avoid these mistakes and you’re already ahead of the game.

Need help pricing or prepping your home? Let’s connect.