What are the 10 biggest turn-offs for home buyers?

When it comes to selling your property, making a good first impression is imperative. We have identified the top 10 biggest turn-offs for prospective buyers and how to avoid them.

Clutter

Clutter is not only distracting, but it could indicate that the property does not have adequate storage. Creating a clutter-free, minimalistic environment will help buyers visualize themselves living in your home. Additionally, too much furniture can make a property seem a lot smaller than it is. It can be a good idea to declutter before a house move to ensure your possessions are organised when unpacking your next home, and it has the added bonus of making your current property look even more sleek.

Smells

No matter how pleasant your home appears, persistent odours such as the smell of pets, cigarettes, or pungent food can be detrimental when it comes to selling your property. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so we suggest opening your windows to air out your property before a viewing and use air freshener or light a candle to ensure your home doesn’t smell unpleasant.

An untidy exterior

Overgrown, unkempt gardens are a big no-no. Ensure the front of your property is clutter-free, and you could add some hanging baskets or a stylish doormat to your porch to showcase your home in the best light from the moment a potential buyer arrives. Take the time to tend to your garden, ensuring the grass is well-kept and the weeds are pulled out. 

Noise

Most people expect their home to be a place of peace and tranquility. It may not always be preventable, but there are steps you can take to reduce unwanted noise from your property. If sounds such as traffic are unavoidable, ask for your viewings to take place outside of rush hour. If you have the budget to do so, this might be the perfect time to upgrade your windows with high-quality glazing ahead of the move. 

No natural light

Light and warmth are two of the most important factors to attract a buyer for your home, especially in the colder months of the year. Resolving this issue can be simple. Ensuring the room is well lit, whether that be naturally or with staged lighting is quite simple to fix. Make sure the curtains are open and remove any net curtains. 

Bad décor

Avoid controversial or quirky décor in your home as it is not to everyone’s taste. What you think is retro, others may consider dated. Bold colours and patterns can turn off a prospective buyer, as it is important for them to see themselves living there and décor plays a huge part in this.

Nightmare neighbours

Nobody enjoys noisy or messy neighbours, especially not a potential buyer. This is something you cannot change, but it is something you can manage. Whether their garden hasn’t been cleaned in years, or their pet dogs incessantly bark, get to know your neighbour and perhaps they may be able to help. If all else fails, organising viewings for when they are not home might be beneficial, too.

Poor presentation

Poor attention to detail such as: flaking paint on soffits, grubby kitchen units, tatty net curtains, unemptied ashtrays and nicotine stained walls are taken into consideration when viewing a property. Small and affordable fixes such as: freshening up the paint work, or having your home professionally cleaned will make a world of difference and worth it in the long run.

An unexpected problem

There is nothing worse for a viewer than turning up to find there is a significant issue with a property which they were not aware of such as a structural defect, a problem with something in the neighbourhood or compromised accommodation. Speak to your agent about maintaining compliance with Consumer Protection Regulations, as this will allow viewers to be more trusting and willing to discuss the issues and the available solutions.

An overzealous vendor

It is common for a vendor to want to take part in the viewing or show off their DIY aspects of the property. However, vendors being present at viewings may not always be a good thing. Take a step back and let your agent do the work, it is their job after all and you will thank them later.

Are you looking to sell your home? Contact your local Guild Member for help through the moving process.

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