When selling a property, there are a few things that arguably matter more than any other.
One is getting enough demand and interest from buyers to actually get your home sold, while another is getting the best possible price for your property.
Both these things could be affected if there are aspects of your house that have would-be purchasers running a mile or seeking a discount off the asking price.
Luckily property expert Eric Bramlett, owner of Bramlettresidential.com, has shared what could potentially “devalue your home and put off prospective buyers”.
1. Clutter
The initial impression a potential buyer forms when they enter a home is so important, so a cluttered environment can instantly give off a chaotic and unwelcoming vibe, potentially “deterring buyers right from the outset”.
Clutter has the deceptive ability to “make rooms appear much smaller than they genuinely are” and this can lead buyers to believe that the house lacks the necessary storage or living space they need.
Homes often possess beautiful features that can be “major selling points”, but clutter can overshadow these aspects preventing potential buyers from even noticing them. Buyers could also wonder if a homeowner who hasn’t decluttered might also be neglecting essential repairs and upkeep.
Eric warned that clutter can “inadvertently induce feelings of stress, anxiety, and disorder” – emotions that sellers would not want associated with their property.
2. Bold paint choices
The choice of paint colour in a home is more than just an aesthetic decision. It plays a vital role in shaping the ambience of a space and can influence potential buyers’ perceptions.
The property expert claimed: “Extremely vivid or unusual paint colours can deter potential buyers, especially those who struggle to visualise beyond the existing decor.”
Not every buyer has the imagination to see potential, therefore Eric recommends opting for neutral shades that possess warm undertones as they not only make spaces feel inviting but also offer a timeless appeal, ensuring that the home remains “attractive to potential buyers for a longer duration”.
He added that by leaning towards neutral decor and considering the broader market can be effective in enhancing a property’s appeal and value.
3. Neglecting the master bedroom
Often homeowners focus purely on their living rooms or kitchens, believing these to be the primary areas of interest for potential buyers so they might unintentionally neglect one of the “most intimate and crucial spaces” – the master bedroom.
Eric claimed that this room serves as a sanctuary, a private retreat within the home, and its condition can “significantly influence a buyer’s perception of the entire property”.
Thankfully, updating the master bedroom doesn’t necessarily require a massive budget or extensive renovations as “simple, cost-effective changes” can make a “world of difference”.
4. Following TikTok trends
As TikTok hosts a rapid cycle of trends, the social media trends it highlights can be a potential “pitfall” for homeowners looking to increase their property’s value.
Instead, Eric suggests leaning into more classic design elements as a “safer bet”. Opting for neutral-coloured cabinetry offers a “timeless appeal”.
