He was a control freak. After the first bidder walked away without making a counteroffer, a second proposal didn't come in for 45 days. Of course, the owner of a home always retains the ultimate say on pricing issues. But a seller who intervenes excessively in this or other elements of home marketing risks self-sabotage, says Kenneth W. Edwards, the author of three books on real estate. There are several ways in which a home seller may become overly pushy, thereby reducing the odds of the best possible outcome, Edwards says.
Some sellers try to second-guess their listing agent on when, where and how to advertise a property.
Some try to edit their agent's comments in the Multiple Listing Service entry on the home. And some force themselves on would-be prospects when the place is shown. You encounter some sellers who are 'Type A' people. No matter your personality or rank at the office, you could undermine your chances for the best possible sale if you micromanage your agent. Knowing that it's not customary for owners to be present when a place is open for public viewing, some sellers will promise to remain quiet and in the background.