Certain designs can significantly impact a potential buyer’s interest. Here’s how you might be unintentionally decreasing your property value with your bold choices.
Personal taste in interiors varies wildly, but what you might love in your home could be putting off potential buyers.
According to a study by Zillow, homes with darker interiors, particularly in kitchens and living areas, tend to sell for significantly less than those with lighter, neutral tones. Additionally, a report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) states that buyers often perceive highly personalized or outdated decor as a potential renovation cost, which can lower offers.
“Certain wallpaper patterns, paint colors, and even artwork could slash your home’s value or make it linger on the market far longer than necessary,” declares Liam Smith, a color and print expert at Aura Print.
Decors and Design Choices That Might Be Devaluing Your Home
With this in mind, Smith shares some notes on decor and artwork to avoid.
1. Overly Bold or Unusual Wall Colors
While bold colors reflect personality, hues like bright red, neon shades, and deep dark tones can make spaces feel unwelcoming and limit buyer interest. Neutral tones—whites, grays, and soft beiges—are generally more appealing.
2. Outdated or Excessive Wallpaper
Wallpaper with busy patterns, textured surfaces, or outdated designs can be challenging to remove, making potential buyers hesitant. Simple, modern, or easily removable wall treatments are preferable.
3. Unconventional or Personalized Artworks
Art is subjective, but controversial, polarizing, or oversized pieces may alienate buyers. Home staging experts recommend opting for universally appealing artwork or minimal wall decor.
4. Overly Themed or Custom Decor
Themes like a jungle-inspired living room or a medieval-style dining area can be off-putting to buyers who struggle to picture their own style within the space. Keeping interiors neutral and adaptable can enhance appeal.
5. Permanent Built-in Features
Custom-built elements such as oversized shelving, elaborate murals, or non-standard installations can deter buyers who prefer flexible design choices. Versatility is key in increasing market appeal.
6. Heavy, Dark, or Dated Interior Elements
Dark paneling, heavy drapery, and outmoded decor styles can make a home feel smaller and less inviting. Buyers tend to favor bright, open, and modern aesthetics.
7. Non-traditional Ceiling and Floor Treatments
Ceilings painted in bold colors and floors with eccentric patterns or non-traditional materials can discourage buyers. Classic hardwood, neutral tile, or subtle carpet choices tend to be more market-friendly.
“A home should appeal to the widest audience possible. Taking decors to the extreme makes it harder for buyers to imagine themselves living in the space,” says Smith.
While homeowners should embrace their personal style, those looking to sell should prioritize neutral, widely appealing design choices. Research from the NAR suggests that buyers are willing to pay a premium for move-in-ready homes with minimal required updates.
“Investing in neutral decor and subtle modern updates can lead to higher offers and faster sales. Buyers want to imagine a home as their own, and an overly customized space makes that difficult,” he explains.
What You Should Do Instead
If you’re preparing to sell or rent your home, the best approach is to keep things neutral and inviting. Here are some simple fixes:
- Opt for neutral paint colors – Soft whites, warm taupes, and light greys are always a safe choice.
- Remove outdated or busy wallpaper – If you must use wallpaper, stick to light, simple patterns.
- Swap out personal or bold artwork – Stick to minimalist pieces or framed prints with broad appeal.
- Check with your local recycling service – If you’re repainting or removing wallpaper, be mindful of disposal regulations.
At the end of the day, a little effort in choosing the right colors and decor can mean the difference between a home that sells quickly at a great price and one that sits on the market for months. Before you get carried away with your personal design tastes, remember: what works for you might not work for your home’s value.
