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Here are 10 of my favourite turnoffs for buyers (in no particular order). Some of these have long been regarded as helpful (ie. baking before a showing to create a warm and pleasant experience); however, times (and today’s buyers) are different so time to re-think:
Outdated/overdressed curtain treatments - one of the 5 main things I address during a consult are window coverings since they can very quickly date a home. Less is more so if the curtains/valances are dated OR distracting, I always recommend they be removed.
Scents - smells can instantly make or break a showing - baking cookies is not necessary! And don’t scent it up with candles, air fresheners, or perfume since it’s too risky these days (many individuals have allergies to flowers or perfumes). Think scent-free!
Over-accessorizing - a staging professional will help you to find the right balance between too many accessories and too little - neutralizing the space is key so personal photos are a must go. Simplicity is key and groupings of 3 are more appealing to the eye! And, no rugs on top of rugs !!
Matchy-Matchy - too much uniformity can make your home feel dated - for instance, no matching placemats, table runner, curtains. Fabric items like this are used much less in today’s homes. Remember, there are different ways to create warm and cozy without the overuse of fabric.
Dark Rooms - they are notoriously harder to sell - light, airy rooms are always more appealing to buyers. Buyers want to see bright rooms so the more light you can bring in, the better!
Artwork in random places - there are natural places for artwork to be mounted to enhance a room’s overall look/feel - for example above a couch, at the end of a hallway, above a bed, etc. - make sure art is centered at eye level so that it feels welcoming and not awkward
Uncleanliness - Don’t assume it’s ‘clean enough’ - buyers want pristine so leave no signs that your home hasn’t been immaculately maintained. This includes windows!
No curb appeal - as stagers, we tend to focus on the interior; however, if you can’t ‘grab them at the curb’ so to speak, nothing that you do on the inside matters. Buyers will drive by and form an immediate first impression based on the exterior of your home. That impression will then determine whether they reach out for a showing so make that impression count!
Unappealing entryway/foyer - like curb appeal, your foyer matters and, oftentimes, up to 5 different areas of the home can be seen from this vantage point - make sure it’s clutter-free and inviting!
Too much furniture - I would say with the majority of homes that I consult on have waaayyy too much furniture !! - always extra lazy-boys in the living room or misc chairs tucked into corners, dressers inside of closets, etc. Pare it down to maximize the space available in each room!