Designing or customizing your home can be a thrilling process, but what’s perfect for you might not be for someone else. Unless this is your forever home, it’s wise to consider how your design moves may hurt your home’s value and lead to potential buyers lowballing a home offer or passing on your house. Here are some design moves to rethink if you’re considering selling your home:
"Most buyers these days can get a mortgage, but they don’t have the time, talents or cash to afford to make renovations, so they prefer a home to be move-in ready. An updated home can help it sell faster and at a higher price!"April Coulter, Three Sixty REALTOR® and Top Producing Agent
1. Bye-bye Bathtub: Opting for a shower over a bathtub might seem modern, but it could deter buyers, especially those with young children who prefer tubs. Keep at least one bathtub, especially if it’s the only one in the house.
"I’ve had a number of clients in the last year who’ve insisted they don’t want a tub because they never take baths. I always mention that it’s really hard to bathe small children and pets in homes with zero bathtubs! I encourage them to have at least one in a secondary bathroom."Sandi Williams, Three Sixty REALTOR® and Top Producing Agent
2. Pool Predicaments: While pools and hot tubs offer fun, they can scare off buyers due to safety concerns and maintenance costs. They might view it as a liability rather than a luxury.
3. Closed Spaces Conundrum: Closed floor plans may not resonate with today’s buyers who crave openness and natural light. Ensure your design allows visibility across different areas of the home.
4. Bedroom and Bathroom Balance: Knocking down walls to create open spaces may seem appealing, but it can reduce the number of bedrooms or bathrooms, impacting resale value. Keep the balance to appeal to a wider market.
5. Kitchen Appliance Overkill: A high-end kitchen is desirable, but going overboard with appliances might intimidate potential buyers. Match the level of appliances with the home’s price point.
"It’s said to be faithful to your own taste, because nothing that you really like is ever out of style, but be wary of personalizing your house too specifically with a $20,000 oven from France. The next owners may not appreciate it as much as you do!"Emmy Martin Sorrells, Three Sixty REALTOR® and Top Producing Agent
6. Bulky Built-ins Blues: While built-ins add character, they may not align with buyers’ tastes. Opt for versatility over permanence to avoid limiting future buyers’ options.
7. Subpar Renovation Regrets: DIY projects can save money, but they may not yield the best results. Invest in professional renovations to avoid diminishing your home’s value.
"It’s always a good idea to consult a professional when making renovation investments. Sarah Brown and the Style Crew at lifeSTYLED Inspired Interiors has been very helpful for both me and my clients."April Coulter, Three Sixty REALTOR® and Top Producing Agent
8. Sensible Additions: Consider the functionality of any additions. Aesthetic appeal should not compromise the flow and practicality of the space.
9. Cohesive Styles: Ensure consistency between your home’s interior and exterior styles to avoid confusing potential buyers.
10. Personalized Spaces Pitfall: Customize with caution. While you may love unique features, they might not resonate with buyers, impacting your home’s marketability.
11. Durable Design: Prioritize durability when selecting materials to withstand wear and tear, ensuring long-term value.
12. Flexible Spaces: Avoid permanent conversions that may limit future buyers’ options. Maintain versatility to appeal to a broader audience.
13. Garden Moderation: While a lush garden is appealing, an overwhelming amount of greenery may deter buyers who aren’t keen on extensive maintenance.
14. Flooring Faux Pas: Stick to neutral flooring choices to appeal to a wider audience, avoiding niche preferences that may prolong the selling process.
15. Carpet Caveats: Choose carpet wisely, avoiding areas prone to moisture and opting for alternatives like washable mats.
16. Contract Caution: Avoid installations requiring long-term contracts, such as solar. These contracts can complicate the sale process and deter potential buyers.
Information from Alabama Association of REALTORS® and Real Simple magazine.
