When it comes to selling a home, emotions can run high. After all, this is a place where memories have been made and personal touches abound. But when the “For Sale” sign goes up, it’s time to put emotions aside and get practical. The goal is to attract a wide range of potential buyers, and sometimes, that means letting go of trendy design choices that might not resonate with the masses.
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- Some design trends can hurt your home’s resale value, so opting for timeless simplicity is best.
- Buyers are attracted to homes with clean lines, minimal clutter, and a neutral color palette.
- Proper staging can make a big difference in attracting buyers and getting the best possible price for your home.
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How Some Design Trends Can Hurt Your Home’s Resale Value
Real estate experts like Chris Heller, co-founder of Agent Advice, have seen it time and time again. “Homeowners often get attached to their design choices, but what they love might not be what buyers are looking for,” Heller says. “It’s our job to help them see their home through the eyes of potential buyers and make adjustments accordingly.”
The Least Loved Design Trends
- Pastel colors: Remember when baby pink and lilac were all the rage? Yeah, those days are behind us now. While soft, gentle hues might evoke a sense of whimsy, they can also appear juvenile or overly sweet for most buyers.
- Scalloped furniture: The mermaid-chic aesthetic, curved edges on pillows, rugs, and furniture, was once all the rage. But now, it’s starting to feel too cutesy for most buyers.
- Antique farmhouse decor: Rustic charm is still in, but its modern counterpart has surpassed the antique farmhouse look. Clean lines and a fresh vibe are more appealing to contemporary buyers.
- Upcycled furniture: Repurposed furniture might be eco-friendly and creative, but it’s not for everyone. Buyers might prefer a more polished look or worry about the quality and durability of upcycled pieces.
- Industrial elements: Exposed brick and metal elements were once the hallmark of industrial chic, but now they’re starting to feel cold and uninviting for some buyers.
However, it is not just these specific design trends that can turn off potential buyers. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest can also create a false sense of what’s popular and what will appeal to the broader market. “Homeowners often get caught up in what’s trending on social media, but that’s not always what buyers are looking for,” Heller warns. “We need to look at the data and see what’s selling homes.”
What Buyers Prefer These Days?
According to Heller and other experts, here are some timeless design elements that appeal to a wide range of buyers:
- Accent walls: Strategically placed accent walls can visually alter the size, shape, and feel of a room, making it a popular choice.
- Pendant lighting: Oversized pendant lights add a touch of modern elegance and functionality, replacing the outdated look of multiple small fixtures.
- Minimalist elements: Monochromatic color palettes and a clutter-free environment create a sense of spaciousness and tranquility, highly sought after by modern buyers.
- Natural light: Ample natural light is a universal selling point, making rooms feel bright, airy, and inviting.
- Open floor plans: Open floor plans continue to be popular, offering a sense of spaciousness and flow.
Why Simplicity Matters?
Simplicity matters because it allows buyers to envision themselves living in the space. When a home is cluttered and overly personalized, it can be difficult for buyers to see past the seller’s possessions and imagine their own life.
By opting for warmer neutral tones, plenty of natural light, and removing clutter, sellers can create a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to many buyers.
The Importance of Staging
Staging is crucial in today’s market, especially during peak selling season (March to May). According to Heller, “Many buyers will be willing to pay more for an aesthetically pleasing property, as it requires less immediate renovation or redecoration.”
By staging rooms invitingly and comfortably, sellers can help buyers imagine themselves living in the property, whether viewing it in person or online.
Additional Tips for Staging Your Home
When selling your home, there are a few more things to keep in mind to make it attractive to buyers:
- Declutter and Depersonalize: Pack away your personal stuff, photos, and collections. This helps buyers imagine their things in the space.
- Focus on Functionality: Make sure furniture is placed in a way that makes it easy to move around and access essential areas.
- Create Curb Appeal: The outside of your home is the first thing buyers see! Keep your lawn tidy, clean the exterior, and add welcoming touches like potted plants.
- Stage Each Room: Give each room a clear purpose and function. Consider furniture arrangement and add decorative elements that make the space look nice.
- Seek Professional Help: If you need expert advice or access to furniture and decor rentals, consider hiring a home stager. They can help make your home look its best!
So, what does this mean for homeowners looking to sell? It means being open to feedback from real estate experts, being willing to make adjustments, and trusting the data. “Selling a home is an emotional rollercoaster, but it’s essential to separate personal taste from practicality,” Heller says. “By doing so, you can create a welcoming and attractive space that appeals to a wide range of buyers and sells quickly and successfully.”
In short, it’s time to put emotions aside and get practical. You can create a home that buyers will love by avoiding trendy design choices, incorporating timeless elements, and balancing warmth and simplicity. With the proper presentation and timing, you can sell your home quickly and successfully, even in a competitive market.
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