The #1 Mistake Agents Make That Pushes Tampa Sellers Away

By Andrew Duncan

Hi I’m Andrew Duncan and I’ve built a top-selling real estate team in Tampa. I just moved to LPT Realty after being with REMAX for years. The splits are better, the revenue share is better, and it’s honestly the perfect business model now that we can build on the existing success of proven cloud brokerage models. I invite you to check out LPT Realty. Move your license over to us. We’re a brokerage focused on listings and profitability.

Have you ever wondered why some real estate agents struggle to build trust with home sellers right from the start? The problem often comes down to one common mistake: critiquing the home too early. While the intention may be to provide helpful advice, leading with criticism puts sellers on the defensive, kills rapport, and can sabotage the relationship before it even begins.

Why first impressions matter in the walk-through. A walk-through should be an educational opportunity for both agent and seller, giving the seller a chance to showcase what they love and the agent a chance to learn. Too often, though, agents jump straight into pointing out flaws, painting, upgrades, or outdated features, which feels like a personal attack on what sellers see as their most valuable asset.

How critiques damage trust before it’s built. This negative first impression makes sellers less likely to trust or even like the agent. Think about it: if a guest walked into your house and immediately started pointing out problems, would you feel good about them? Probably not. Sellers want to feel respected and understood before they hear any critiques.

When feedback should actually be given. The solution isn’t to ignore issues but to address them at the right time. During the walk-through, agents should focus on listening and observing. Once trust and commitment are established, honest conversations about improvements, pricing, or staging are appropriate.

Why timing makes all the difference. Too-early feedback damages trust, while advice given after commitment shows professionalism and builds partnership. Agents should earn trust before critiquing, and sellers should see premature criticism as a warning sign. When respect, trust, and timing align, the path to a successful sale is much smoother.

If you need guidance on building stronger connections with sellers or navigating your real estate career, reach out to (813) 359-8990. I’d be happy to help you avoid common pitfalls, strengthen your approach, and set yourself up for long-term success.