10 Things Homebuyers Will Hate About Your House

If you’re planning to put your house on the market, there’s more to it than picking the right listing price or scheduling the perfect open house. It’s also about the details that can make or break that first impression.

What you might overlook could be the very thing that sends buyers running for the door. These are 10 things homebuyers immediately notice about your house that you should fix ASAP.

Dirty Bathrooms

A dirty bathroom can be a deal-breaker. When buyers see towels laying everywhere, a laundry basket overflowing with clothes, or a tub lined with hair, it doesn’t exactly scream ‘welcome home.’ Instead, aim for the sparkle of a hotel bathroom.

Clear off the countertops, hang fresh towels, and ensure everything is spotless. This not only makes a good impression but also suggests that the rest of the house is equally well-kept.

Photos, Diplomas, and Awards

While your family photos, diplomas, and awards make your house a home, they can be a distraction to potential buyers. When homebuyers see these personal items, they tend to focus more on piecing together who you are rather than visualizing themselves in the space.

Tucking these items away helps depersonalize the space, allowing buyers to envision their own memories there, which is crucial in helping them connect with the property.

Dirty Dishes

Walking into a kitchen, buyers should be imagining themselves whipping up meals, not washing up your leftovers. Dirty dishes can be a real eyesore, pulling attention away from the features of your kitchen.

Before anyone steps foot inside, make sure every dish is out of sight—either washed or tucked neatly in the dishwasher. A clean kitchen is inviting. It tells buyers you care about your space, setting a positive tone for the rest of the home tour.

Pets

Pets make a house a home, but when you’re selling, not every buyer will feel that way. Pet paraphernalia like toys, beds, or bowls can suggest to buyers that the home might come with some nasty pet odors or hidden damage.

To keep your home appealing to everyone, consider stowing away the pet gear during showings. You want to present a clean, neutral environment that any buyer, pet lover or not, can see themselves in.

Lack of Natural Light

Stepping into a home that’s bathed in natural light can be a game changer for buyers. It’s the difference between feeling cozy and welcoming versus closed-off and cramped.

To maximize the appeal, throw open those curtains and lift the shades before any showing. Flip on all the lights too, to enhance the natural light.

Also, take a look outside. If there’s any unruly greenery casting shadows indoors, a quick trim might just flood your space with the sunshine that buyers love.

Clutter

Clutter is a major distraction to potential homebuyers. Buyers walking into your home want to picture their life there, not navigate through your personal items. Before showings, make it a point to declutter.

Clear off counters, tidy up the living spaces, and stash away those everyday items like shoes and pet toys. Box up anything you don’t need on a daily basis and store it out of sight. Remember, when buyers don’t have to look past clutter, they can truly see the potential of your home.

Roof and Siding Needs Work

When a potential buyer approaches your house, the condition of your roof and siding is like the cover of a book—they’ll judge it. Make sure these features shine by keeping the siding spick-and-span.

A power wash or a fresh coat of paint can work wonders, making your home look inviting and well-cared-for at first glance.

And your roof? Make sure it’s free of green algae, stray plants, or missing shingles. These things signal to buyers how well you’ve maintained the entire home.

The Smell of Your House

Never underestimate the power of a first impression, and nothing makes or breaks it quite like the smell of your home. Imagine opening the door to a musty, stale atmosphere—it’s kind of gross, right?

To avoid this, air out your home before showings. Open the windows to flush out any old, stagnant air and introduce a breath of freshness. A good smell not only welcomes but can make your home feel cleaner and more appealing.

Front Lawn

When buyers pull up to your home, your front lawn is practically the welcome mat. If it’s dotted with weeds or the grass could rival a jungle, that’s a red flag waving at them.

A messy lawn can give the impression that other parts of the property are equally overlooked. It’s almost like the lawn is whispering, “They might not have looked inside either, so why should you?”

Front Porch

Your front porch sets the tone. If it’s cluttered or the furniture has seen better days, buyers might just backtrack before ever stepping inside.

A clean, welcoming porch suggests a cared-for home inside and out. Take some time to clean up and maybe add a few cozy touches.