A Look at What Turns Off Home Buyers

17 Sep A Look at What Turns Off Home Buyers

Buyers are becoming more and more savvy when home shopping, and many have a specific idea of what they’re interested in before they even set foot inside a home. When a buyer thinks about spending their hard-earned money on a new home, most expect the experience to relatively turn-key. With a little effort and small changes, it’s easy to stand out in a sea of sellers. Here’s a look at what turns off home buyers.

1. Landscaping: Overgrown yards and unkempt landscaping is a major turn-off, and home buyers are all about curb appeal. In addition to mowing the lawn, trim trees and shrubs, mulch garden beds, and pull the weeds. Think about planting some potted annuals to add a splash of color.
2. Paint Colors: Paint your home in neutral colors if you’re thinking about selling. Go with a warm, neutral color like beige or ivory. Don’t forget to paint your trim bright white too.
3. Popcorn Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings collect dust, are hard to clean, and simply look dated. Additionally, if your home was built prior to the mid-1980s, it may contain asbestos. Hire a licensed inspector to test your ceiling first, and then look into having it removed by a drywall or painting contractor.
4. Carpet: If you have carpet, think about pulling it up to expose the wood beneath. If keeping the carpet is the only option, have it professionally cleaned.
5. Vanity Strips in Bathrooms: Bare, round bulbs tacked to a wood strip scream the 1970s, so if you have a vanity strip in your bathroom, replace it with an updated fixture. Look for one that has a shade for each bulb in a style and finish that complements your faucet set.