Top 5 Mistakes Fresno Home Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Selling a home in Fresno? Avoid these common pitfalls to maximize your price and minimize days on market.

Mistake #1: Overpricing. In July 2025, the median Fresno sale price hovered around the low-$400Ks, with average time on market stretching into the 40-day range. Overpricing can push you well past the local average DOM, causing stale listings and price cuts. 

Mistake #2: Skipping basic prep. Exterior refreshes, lawn care, and modest cosmetic updates offer strong ROI and curb appeal that converts more online clicks into showings. National cost-vs-value studies show exterior projects often deliver some of the best returns; landscaping upgrades also punch above their weight. 

Mistake #3: Weak photos & staging. Fresno buyers shop online first. Professional photos, decluttering, and light staging drive more traffic and higher offers. (Pro tip: schedule photos near golden hour to highlight outdoor spaces — a big win in neighborhoods near Woodward Park.)

Mistake #4: Going it alone (FSBO). NAR’s research shows FSBOs consistently sell for less than agent-assisted sales (median $380k vs $435k in 2024). The “savings” on commission often gets erased by a lower sales price. 

Mistake #5: Ignoring deal-killing details. Fresno County transfer tax, termite work, permit sign-offs, and lender repairs can surprise sellers. Get ahead of these with pre-listing checks and clear disclosures. Fresno County’s documentary transfer tax is $0.55 per $500 — small per se, but part of the net sheet you should plan for. 

Bottom line: Price it right, prep smart, market professionally, and use a local strategist. Want a free pricing and prep plan for your address? Call/text 559-916-1131.