What are the top mistakes to avoid when selling your home in Fairfax County, VA?
To avoid costly delays or lower offers when selling your Fairfax County home, don’t overprice, skip repairs, or neglect staging. Cristina Dougherty helps sellers sidestep these common pitfalls and maximize their home’s value.

Mistake #1: Overpricing the Home
This is the most common—and expensive—mistake. Pricing too high can lead to longer days on market and fewer showings. Cristina Dougherty recommends pricing based on a solid comparative market analysis (CMA), not emotional value or what you ‘need to make.’ In Fairfax neighborhoods like Franklin Glen or Greenbriar, buyers know when something’s overpriced.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Minor Repairs
That dripping faucet, chipped paint, or loose doorknob might seem small, but buyers notice. Unresolved issues give the impression your home hasn’t been maintained. Cristina encourages a pre-market walkthrough to catch and address small repairs before they turn into red flags.

Mistake #3: Skipping Staging or Cleaning
A clean and well-staged home shows better, photographs better, and often sells faster. Even in strong markets like Fairfax Station and Oak Hill, first impressions matter. Cristina’s team includes stagers and cleaners who help prep your home so it stands out from the competition.

Mistake #4: Using Low-Quality Photos
Today’s buyers start their search online. Grainy or poorly lit images can keep them from ever scheduling a showing. Cristina invests in professional photography and video walk-throughs for every listing—because better photos lead to more clicks and more showings.

Mistake #5: Making Showings Difficult
Buyers want easy access. If showings are restricted or difficult to coordinate, they’ll move on to the next property. Cristina’s listing process is designed to minimize inconvenience while maximizing exposure to serious buyers.

Mistake #6: Not Hiring a Local Expert
Every market is different—and so is every neighborhood in Fairfax County. Working with a local expert like Cristina Dougherty ensures you’re priced right, marketed effectively, and prepared for local buyer expectations. With over two decades in this market, Cristina knows how to navigate any challenge that may arise.

Mistake #7: Waiting Too Long to Prepare
Good preparation takes time. If you wait until the last minute to declutter, repair, or plan your marketing strategy, you could lose valuable time and money. Cristina offers pre-listing prep guidance—even months before you’re ready to go live—so your home hits the market at its best.

Final Thoughts
Selling a home doesn’t have to be stressful—if you avoid the common mistakes. Cristina Dougherty brings clarity, strategy, and local insight to every sale. Ready to list? Let’s make sure you’re set up for success from day one.