Kate Duckworth, trends and interior expert at Swift Direct Blinds has shared five home decor mistakes which are “devaluing” your home as well as “putting off prospective buyers”.
1. Clutter
The expert said: “Giving a good first impression to potential buyers is vital when selling your home.
“A cluttered environment can instantly put buyers off as it creates a chaotic and unwelcoming atmosphere.
“Clutter also has the ability to make rooms appear smaller than they are and with airy and spacious rooms at the top of many buyers agenda, decluttering rooms is an easy way to increase appeal.
“Psychologically, buyers are also more likely to judge a seller who hasn’t decluttered and assume they may also be neglecting other house maintenance tasks.”
2. Bold paint colours
Many buyers will struggle to see beyond the existing decor in a home, so bold and vibrant paint colours may not always be a good idea.
Use neutral tones instead as they allow a space to feel timeless as well as provide more of a blank canvas that buyers can visualise adding their touch to.
The pro noted: “Keeping the overall style and feel of your property simple and neutral will increase the property’s appeal to a wider market.”
3. Incorrect window dressings
Having rooms full of as much natural light as possible can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.
One of the most common mistakes people make is having incorrect window dressings which don’t allow the light in.
The pro said: “Avoid heavy and dark materials and instead, opt for light-coloured or sheer curtains or wooden blinds that allow for almost zero obstruction of sunlight.
“Additionally, making sure windows are kept clean will allow even more natural light into rooms.”
4. Removing bathtubs
It has become popular in recent years to remove bathtubs and instead opt for walk-in showers, creating more space.
However, many prospective buyers are still looking for baths, especially if they have young children. According to the expert, removing a bath is a “big mistake”.
5. Bad lighting
The interior expert continued: “An important aspect of creating the perfect tone for your home is by utilising light. A design blunder that frequently occurs in home decor is selecting only one kind of lighting.
“Having just one main light in a room can make other sections of the space feel dark and create an overall sterile feel to the room.
“In terms of aesthetics, perfecting the balance between ambience and task lighting, such as ceiling fittings and floor lamps is key.
“Layered lighting is also important as it highlights any architectural features in your home while also adding depth to a room, which is a great way to attract more potential buyers.”