Courtesy-uglyphotos.com
Previously, I discussed some of the top features that buyers want when looking for a new home. If you are selling a house, you may also want to know about features that turn most buyers off.
Outside, landscaping that is either over-the-top or practically non-existent is unacceptable to buyers. Overly lush landscaping will likely require much time and money for upkeep. Similarly, if a house lacks curb appeal, it will require a large initial investment to put in some necessary landscaping. Swimming pools are also a turnoff for many buyers. Except in states that have warm weather year round, a pool is generally considered to be a liability-especially if there are pets or children in the household.
Inside, features that date a house – popcorn ceilings/ glass & brass light fixtures,/busy wallpaper/ dirty, worn carpeting/yellow, green or pink appliances and tile – cause the buyer to worry about the expense of updating the house. Most buyers are not attracted to vacant homes because they have to struggle to envision how the rooms would look if they were furnished. This is even more so in older homes with rooms added-on or ones with a quirky layout. In addition, buyers often tend to think that “there must be a problem with this house” because the owners left without selling. Perhaps the biggest turnoff for most buyers is the presence of unpleasant smells in a house. Whether the odors originate from cooking, pets, mold or other sources, buyers find them extremely offensive and they can be an immediate deal-breaker.
If you are planning to sell a house and one or more of these issues pose a concern, it is well worth it to rectify the issue before listing. If this is not possible, then consider offering an incentive to enable the buyer to take care of the issue himself.