Selling your home in St. John’s is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make — and the costliest mistake happens before your home even hits the market. Too many sellers launch at the wrong price and in the wrong condition, costing themselves time, money, and leverage with serious buyers.

As someone who helps homeowners across St. John’s navigate this process every day, I can tell you that preparation, pricing, and timing are everything. I’m Ryan Elliott, a real estate agent here in St. John’s, NL, and in this post, I want to share the insider strategies that help my clients sell faster, smarter, and with less stress.

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The #1 Mistake: Listing Too High, Too Soon

Many sellers are tempted to “test the market” by pricing their home high and seeing what happens. But in St. John’s, the first 7 to 10 days on the market are crucial. That’s when the most motivated buyers are watching for new listings.

If your price misses the mark, your home lingers online, and soon the conversation shifts from “how much?” to “what’s wrong with it?” Over time, that leads to lower offers and less negotiating power.

Instead, start with a strategic, data-driven price that creates interest from day one. Compare your home only to truly similar properties — not just by size, but by neighbourhood, finishes, and features. A semi-detached in Cowan Heights, for example, plays in a different market than a heritage-style home downtown.

When you price your home where the market actually is, not where you wish it was, you attract real buyers instead of browsers.

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Presentation Matters: Prep Like a Pro

In Newfoundland, small details make a big impression. The salt, snow, and temperature swings can take a toll on exteriors and driveways, so first impressions start at the curb.

Before listing, tighten up the details: repaint trim, refresh entryways, and brighten every space. Replace old bulbs with bright LEDs, repair that sticky latch, and make sure every room feels clean, functional, and welcoming. Decluttering is huge — buyers here often bring bulky outerwear, hockey gear, or strollers, so open space is a silent selling point.

I work with each seller to build a simple, customized checklist. You don’t need a massive renovation — just the right prep to help buyers fall in love instantly.

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Timing, Marketing, and Launch Strategy

When you’ve prepped and priced right, the next step is your launch. Timing in St. John’s matters: a midweek launch maximizes weekend traffic, while flexibility with showings helps overcome unpredictable weather.

And marketing? That’s where I make your home shine. My listings feature professional video, engaging social media campaigns, and community-driven storytelling that highlight what makes your home — and your neighbourhood — special. Whether it’s a view of the Narrows or a family-friendly cul-de-sac near great schools, we show buyers why your property fits their Newfoundland lifestyle.

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The Client Experience That Sets Us Apart

One of my clients recently left this Google review, and it captures what I aim to deliver in every transaction:

“Ryan was recommended to us by a trusted family friend. From the very first meeting we knew we were in good hands. Ryan’s confidence and knowledge in the market is clear in his advice and approach. You never feel rushed or pressured — he genuinely wants to help you find the right property. He advises like an old friend, stays in touch with updates, and his marketing gave our home a real edge. We’d recommend him without hesitation.”

That’s exactly the experience I strive for — professional guidance without pressure, proactive communication, and marketing that makes your home stand out.