‘I’m a property expert – and these mistakes are knocking thousands off the value of your home’

With house prices rising and mortgage rates dropping, there are signs that new life is being breathed into the housing market. If you are thinking of moving though, gaining the most money for your property is crucial.

According to property expert Eric Bramlett, owner of Bramlettresidential.com, there are certain habits that could potentially devalue your home and put off prospective buyers. With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, he cites some of the key factors which could be knocking thousands off the value of your home.

Clutter

The initial impression a potential buyer forms when they enter a home is so important. 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 architectural nuances or unique 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 has not decluttered might also be neglecting essential repairs and upkeep.

Prospective buyers often lean towards homes that give off a “move-in ready” aura. A cluttered home, conversely, seems to promise additional effort and time before it becomes a comfortable dwelling. Beyond the practicalities, homes also resonate on an emotional level. Clutter can inadvertently induce feelings of stress, anxiety, and disorder—emotions that sellers would not want associated with their property.

Neglecting the master bedroom

Often homeowners pour their energy and resources into updating communal spaces like 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. 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. Simple, cost-effective changes can make a world of difference. For instance, a fresh coat of neutral paint can instantly refresh and modernise the room, making it feel more spacious and welcoming. Modern lighting fixtures can transform the ambiance, adding warmth and sophistication. Decluttering the space and incorporating well-styled decor can make the room feel curated and comfortable, allowing potential buyers to imagine themselves settling in with ease.

Following TikTok trends

The very nature of TikTok, with its fast-paced content consumption and ever-evolving trends, means that what’s in vogue today might be passé tomorrow. This rapid cycle of trends can be a potential pitfall for homeowners looking to increase their property’s value. Take the Cottagecore aesthetic, which has garnered an astonishing 14.9 billion views on TikTok. This trend, characterised by its romanticised rural and vintage elements, is undoubtedly one of the biggest interior design movements to gain traction on the platform.

However, while the aesthetic can be enchanting in certain settings, it might not be universally appealing, especially when applied to central home spaces like the kitchen. A Cottagecore-inspired kitchen, reminiscent of farmhouse styles, can easily tip into the realm of cluttered and chaotic if not meticulously executed. Try leaning in to more classic design elements as a safer bet. Opting for neutral-coloured cabinetry offers a timeless appeal.

Bold paint choices

The choice of paint colour in a home is more than just an aesthetic decision; it plays a pivotal role in shaping the ambiance of a space and can influence potential buyers’ perceptions. 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. I recommend 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. Leaning towards neutrals and considering the broader market can be instrumental in enhancing a property’s appeal and value.