10 Things Buyers Hate About Homes on the Market Today

Selling a home in today’s competitive market requires more than just listing it and waiting for offers. Buyers are discerning and have high expectations, and certain issues can turn them off instantly. This comprehensive guide identifies ten things buyers hate about homes on the market today and provides actionable tips to help you address these issues, ensuring your home stands out and sells quickly.

10 Things Buyers Hate About Homes on the Market Today

Understanding what buyers dislike can help you make your home more appealing and market-ready. This guide explains the following:

Cluttered and messy spaces
Unpleasant odors
Outdated decor and fixtures
Poor curb appeal
Lack of natural light
Obvious maintenance issues
Overpersonalized spaces
Limited storage space
Poorly staged homes
Misleading or poor-quality photos

Here’s a closer look at each.

Cluttered and Messy Spaces

One of the biggest turn-offs for buyers is walking into a cluttered and messy home. Clutter makes spaces look smaller and can distract buyers from seeing the full potential of the property. Before listing your home, take the time to declutter every room. Remove unnecessary items, organize shelves and closets, and ensure that surfaces are clean and clear. A tidy and organized home allows buyers to focus on the space itself rather than the items within it. Consider hiring a professional organizer if needed to help streamline the process.

Related: Luxury home-selling advice

Unpleasant Odors

Unpleasant odors can be an immediate deal-breaker for potential buyers. Common culprits include pet smells, cooking odors, and mildew. Before showing your home, address any sources of bad odors. Deep clean carpets, upholstery, and curtains, and consider professional cleaning services if necessary. Ensure that the kitchen and bathrooms are thoroughly cleaned and free of lingering smells. If you have pets, try to keep their areas clean and consider using air purifiers. Additionally, open windows to let in fresh air and consider using lightly scented candles or air fresheners to create a pleasant aroma.

Outdated Decor and Fixtures

Buyers today are looking for modern, move-in-ready homes. Outdated decor and fixtures can make your home feel old and neglected. Updating these elements can make a significant difference in how buyers perceive your property. Consider replacing old light fixtures, cabinet hardware, and faucets with more contemporary options. A fresh coat of paint in neutral colors can also help modernize the space. If your budget allows, consider updating key areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms, as these are often the rooms buyers focus on the most.

Poor Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and poor curb appeal can deter buyers before they even step inside. The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, so it’s important to make it inviting and well-maintained. Ensure that the lawn is mowed, bushes are trimmed, and the garden is weeded. Power wash the driveway and sidewalks, and consider painting or cleaning the front door. Adding potted plants or flowers can also enhance the entryway. A well-maintained exterior suggests that the home has been cared for and sets a positive tone for the rest of the showing.

Lack of Natural Light

Homes that are dark and dimly lit can feel uninviting and small. Buyers often prefer bright, airy spaces with plenty of natural light. To enhance the light in your home, start by cleaning all windows to allow maximum sunlight to enter. Remove heavy drapes and replace them with sheer curtains that let in light while maintaining privacy. Consider adding mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger space. If natural light is limited, ensure that each room has adequate artificial lighting with a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting.

Obvious Maintenance Issues

Obvious maintenance issues can signal to buyers that the home has not been well cared for and may require costly repairs. Addressing these issues before listing your home can prevent buyers from being deterred. Common maintenance issues include leaky faucets, cracked tiles, peeling paint, and broken fixtures. Conduct a thorough inspection of your home and make any necessary repairs. If there are larger issues that you cannot fix, be upfront with buyers and consider getting estimates for the repairs to provide them with more information.

Overpersonalized Spaces

While your home reflects your personal taste, overly personalized spaces can make it difficult for buyers to envision themselves living there. Consider neutralizing your decor to appeal to a broader range of buyers. This may involve painting over bold or unusual colors with neutral shades, removing family photos and personal memorabilia, and minimizing unique or eclectic decor. The goal is to create a blank canvas that allows buyers to imagine how they would personalize the space.

Limited Storage Space

Limited storage space can be a significant drawback for buyers, especially those with growing families or a lot of belongings. Highlighting the storage options in your home can make it more appealing. Organize and declutter closets, pantries, and cabinets to showcase their capacity. If your home lacks built-in storage, consider adding solutions such as shelving, closet organizers, or storage furniture. Additionally, make sure that storage areas are easily accessible and well-lit.

Poorly Staged Homes

A poorly staged home can fail to highlight its best features and may leave buyers unimpressed. Proper staging helps create an inviting atmosphere and showcases the home’s potential. If you’re unsure how to stage your home effectively, consider hiring a professional stager. They can help arrange furniture to optimize space and flow, choose decor that enhances the home’s appeal, and create a cohesive look throughout the property. Even simple staging techniques, such as rearranging furniture, adding fresh flowers, and ensuring each room has a clear purpose, can make a significant difference.

Misleading or Poor-Quality Photos

In today’s digital age, most buyers start their home search online, making high-quality photos essential. Misleading or poor-quality photos can deter buyers from even visiting your home. Invest in professional photography to ensure your home is presented in the best light. Professional photographers know how to capture the home’s best angles, use proper lighting, and highlight key features. Make sure the home is clean, organized, and well-staged before the photo session. Additionally, provide accurate descriptions and avoid using filters or editing techniques that can mislead buyers about the home’s true appearance.

FAQ About Common Buyer Dislikes in Homes

Check out these commonly asked questions about common buyer dislikes in homes. If you don't see your question here, please call our office and we'll find you the answers you need.

How Can I Make My Home More Appealing to Buyers?

To make your home more appealing, start by decluttering and deep cleaning every room. Address any maintenance issues, update outdated fixtures, and improve curb appeal. Consider professional staging and invest in high-quality photos for your listing.

What Are the Most Important Updates to Make Before Selling?

Focus on updating the kitchen and bathrooms, as these are key areas that buyers pay close attention to. Additionally, consider updating light fixtures, cabinet hardware, and paint to give your home a more modern look.

How Do I Neutralize My Home’s Decor?

Neutralize your home’s decor by painting walls in neutral colors, removing personal items such as family photos, and minimizing unique or bold decor. Aim to create a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

How Can I Improve My Home’s Curb Appeal?

Improve your home’s curb appeal by maintaining the lawn, trimming bushes, and adding potted plants or flowers. Power wash the driveway and sidewalks, and ensure the front door is clean and inviting. Small touches, such as new house numbers or a welcome mat, can also make a big difference.

Why Are High-Quality Photos Important for My Listing?

High-quality photos are crucial because most buyers start their home search online. Professional photos present your home in the best light, highlighting its features and making it more attractive to potential buyers. Invest in professional photography to ensure your home stands out in online listings.

Understanding and addressing the common dislikes of today’s buyers can significantly improve your chances of selling your home quickly and at a great price. By decluttering, addressing maintenance issues, updating decor, improving curb appeal, enhancing natural light, neutralizing spaces, highlighting storage, staging effectively, and investing in high-quality photos, you can make your home more appealing and market-ready. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your home stands out in today’s competitive market and attracts the right buyers.

Are You Buying or Selling a Home in Scottsdale?

If you’re selling a luxury home in Scottsdale, we can help. You can use our home value calculator to get a ballpark idea on what your home may be worth – and you can call us at 602-694-3200 to talk to a REALTOR® about how we can market your home to all the right buyers.

If you're also looking for a new home, we’ll be happy to show you the homes that interest you most. While you’re here, explore all our Scottsdale real estate listings or look in specific communities:

Don Matheson
REALTOR® | Founder
The Matheson Team
RE/MAX Fine Properties
21020 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85255
602-694-3200
[email protected]

10 Things Buyers Hate About Homes on the Market Today