Top Ten Ways to Scare Off a Home Buyer

By Eric Badgely

Navigating the Home Selling Process

Homeowners today are savvier than ever about selling a home, thanks to the popularity of home makeover shows. These programs often highlight the cardinal rules of home decor.

Unfortunately, designers’ opinions vary seasonally and can be contradictory, making the selling process stressful. The truth is, certain property red flags can send buyers running.

Top Ten Property Red Flags

These are the ten things that can scare off a home buyer, and how to address them to make your home more appealing.

Exterior and Curb Appeal

10. An overgrown garden. Curb appeal describes the attractiveness of a home’s exterior, especially its landscaping. The outside sets the buyer’s first impression, so it must look its best. A neatly trimmed lawn and swept driveway are major steps forward, even if you can’t afford expensive plants or furniture.

An overgrown garden signals work to buyers. They’ll consider the time and money needed to fix it. To make your home move-in-ready, ensure the garden is tidy and well-maintained.

Interior Aesthetics

9. Wallpaper. While wallpaper can enhance a room, it often represents labor to buyers. Removing it is a significant effort, and too much wallpaper may lead buyers to dismiss the house as too much work.

Keep wallpaper minimal, avoiding bold patterns or bright colors. Choose timeless designs that appeal to a broad audience to maintain buyer interest.

8. Clutter. A messy home distracts buyers, preventing them from focusing on the property itself. Clutter suggests neglect and inadequate storage space, which is a concern for buyers seeking a long-term home.

Clean up and store excess items to create a tidy, spacious feel. The cost of storage is worth it to make your home more appealing.

6. Outlandish decor. Themed rooms or quirky collections, like fish figurines, may not appeal to everyone. Buyers need a neutral space to envision themselves living in.

Store unique decor and neutralize rooms to create a blank canvas. A warm, inviting atmosphere helps buyers connect with the home.

Pricing and Perception

7. Under pricing. A price significantly below comparable properties raises doubts. Buyers may suspect hidden issues, especially if the home appears in good condition, breaking their trust.

2. Over pricing. Pricing is the toughest part of selling. Homeowners often overvalue their property due to emotional attachment. Listen to your agent’s market analysis to set a realistic price based on comparable homes and current conditions. Be open to negotiation to avoid prolonged market time.

Health and Maintenance Concerns

5. Pets. Pets can deter buyers due to stains, odors, shedding, or allergies. Carpet stains, scratched walls, or lingering smells suggest extra work for buyers.

Address pet issues promptly: clean accidents with vinegar and water, use baking soda on carpets, and vacuum daily. Consider an air purifier and keep pets out during showings to minimize their impact.

3. Smoking. Tobacco odors and nicotine stains are major turn-offs. Smoke lingers for years, and buyers, especially those with allergies, will likely reject a smoky home.

Structural and Fixture Issues

4. Outdated Fixtures. Avocado green bathroom fixtures signal neglect and outdated maintenance. Buyers may deduct replacement costs or dismiss the home as too much work.

1. Cracked foundation. Any sign of structural instability, like cracks, alarms buyers. Even minor cracks raise concerns about safety and repair costs.

Have cracks professionally inspected and repaired before showings. Fixing them upfront avoids price deductions and reassures buyers.

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