Big Decorating Mistakes That Turn Away Buyers

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

The choices you make in changing key features of your home can significantly affect your property’s value and sale potential. Here are some not-so-good ideas that may turn off buyers or have them make lower offers.

DARKLY PAINTED WALLS
Dracula may have preferred dark colors, but everyday buyers don’t like them. Dark colors can make rooms feel small and less welcoming. While some might appreciate the drama, many view it as an added expense of repainting. Neutral colors tend to appeal to the broadest range of buyers, and light pastels will also work for most buyers. Suffice it to say there are plenty of good choices for interior paint colors, but dark ones are not.

RE-PURPOSING A CLOSET
Removing a closet to create more space may seem like a good idea, but closets are a huge selling point. Extra closet storage is one of the most coveted items buyers are looking for in a home, and many buyers will specifically look for ample storage space in a bedroom, den, or even a bathroom. Removing a closet is often seen as a disadvantage in showing a home.

TOO MANY OPEN SHELVES IN THE KITCHEN
Open shelving might give a modern, airy feeling, but it’s not practical for everyone, especially those with little children or pets. It requires constant organization and cleaning, not to mention keeping an eye on paws or little hands going where they shouldn’t. It also means keeping breakables off many of your shelves since even the most careful of homeowners occasionally mishandle items while removing them from open shelves.

Having pets in the home generally means more dander which, in turn, means more dust. Most people don’t want their items displayed, and even more don’t want to deal with the maintenance of keeping everything looking postcard-perfect while listing their home. Open shelving, especially in the kitchen, means more upkeep and sends out a warning to many would-be buyers who prefer the cabinet door appearance.

PAINTING FLOORS
You may consider this a quick fix rather than a long-term solution, but buyers may view it as covering up potential problems. Wear and tear will also be more noticeable on painted floors when the first piece of heavy furniture scratches them. It’s best to stick to well-recognized floor coverings such as wood, tile, or laminate.

USING WALLPAPER
Wallpaper is seen as a personal preference and may not suit everyone’s taste, especially if it has floral designs, stripes, or unusual geometric images. Removing it can be challenging, presenting an unappealing look for many potential home buyers and a hassle for some buyers who are willing to remove it themselves because they still want to buy your home. It’s best to remove the wallpaper altogether and paint the area in a neutral tone.

USING STICK-ON TILES
Tiled flooring is good, but stick-on tiles are not. The same holds true for kitchen and bathroom backsplashes. These can look cheap and may not wear well over time. Worse yet, buyers may perceive them as a temporary solution and mentally factor in the replacement cost should they choose to make an offer on your home.

DISTRESSING KITCHEN CABINETS
Distressed-style cabinets have a particular rustic aesthetic that doesn’t appeal to everyone. If done poorly, they can look dirty rather than artistic. Again, a natural wood or neutral paint color is best. If the cabinets are in good working order but need a new look, it’s best to consider replacing them. And if that is not in your budget, this article will show you how to Paint Your Cabinets Like a Pro.

OVER-PERSONALIZATION
Too many personal touches can make it hard for buyers to envision the space as their own. This includes family photos, collections, and quirky design choices. Remove as much of this as possible when showing your home, and remember the old adage when it comes to home staging: Less is More. Learn how to stage your home to get the most out of showings.

OVERDOING A THEME
Whether it’s a beach theme, unusual geometric designs, or a floral explosion, overdoing a theme can alienate buyers who don’t appreciate such a look or share your taste in home interiors. It may have worked for you while you lived there, but potential buyers will be looking for neutral colors and themes as a starting point for them to express themselves if they buy the home. Try to pare back unnecessary items so that your theme is not too overpowering to would-be owners of your home.


IGNORING CURB APPEAL
Neglecting the exterior of your home can deter potential buyers. Peeling exterior paint, overgrown bushes and landscaping, and a poorly maintained driveway can all detract from your home’s appeal. The interior of your home may look great to potential buyers, but the outside is what will draw them inside to look further. Read How to Use Curb Appeal to Get Better Offers for more inspiration about this topic.

WALL-TO-WALL CARPETING
In dining rooms and kitchens, wall-to-wall carpeting is often viewed by home buyers as a maintenance nightmare. Not only is carpet difficult to keep clean in areas prone to water and stains, but it also harbors mold, dust, and allergens. Many buyers prefer hardwood floors for their durability and clean look. Make sure to remove any and all carpeting from the kitchen, dining area, and bathrooms before putting your home on the market.

Remember, decorating your home for sale is about showcasing its potential and generating appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. Keeping things neutral, clean, and well-maintained will help ensure that buyers aren’t running for the door after a home showing. If you would like me to provide objective advice on how to present your home to buyers as well as possible, let me know!