As a seasoned journalist who’s rubbed shoulders with plenty of real estate agents over the years, I’ve often heard them share tales of potential buyers bemoaning various aspects of properties they’re touring.
Interestingly, these gripes tend to converge around a common set of home features. If you’re considering selling your home, or if you’re just curious about what turns off home buyers, this list will shed some light on the subject.
1. Insufficient Natural Light
Who doesn’t love a sun-drenched living room or a kitchen that’s awash with morning light? Unfortunately, many homes don’t provide enough natural light, which can make rooms seem dark and dreary.
If your home lacks sufficient windows or they’re poorly placed, prospective buyers may voice their dissatisfaction. And it’s not just about aesthetics – natural light can also boost your mood and productivity!
2. Outdated Kitchen Appliances
Whether it’s a vintage oven that’s seen better days or a refrigerator that’s straight out of the 80s, outdated kitchen appliances are a major turn-off for buyers.
Modern buyers are looking for energy-efficient models that look sleek and perform well. If your kitchen appliances are past their prime, it might be time for an upgrade before you put your home on the market.
3. Lack of Storage Space
We all accumulate stuff, so storage space is crucial in a home. Buyers often complain about homes that lack adequate storage, whether it’s in the kitchen, bedrooms, or garage.
Not having enough space can make a home feel cluttered and cramped, which is a big no-no for potential buyers. So, if you want to make your home more attractive to buyers, consider improving your storage situation.
4. Small Bedrooms
Bedrooms are supposed to be a sanctuary, a place where we can relax and unwind. But when a bedroom is too small, it can feel claustrophobic and uncomfortable.
Buyers often complain about small bedrooms, especially if they have a large family or plan to have guests often. While you can’t magically make your bedrooms bigger, smart design choices can help create the illusion of more space.
5. Old and Worn Out Carpets
Carpets can add warmth and comfort to a home, but when they’re old and worn, they can be a major turn-off for buyers. Not only do old carpets look bad, but they can also harbor allergens and odors.
If your carpets have seen better days, consider replacing them or opting for hard flooring, which many buyers find more appealing.
6. Single Bathroom Houses
In today’s real estate market, homes with only one bathroom can be a tough sell. Most buyers are looking for at least two bathrooms, especially if they have a large family or frequently host guests.
A single bathroom can cause a flurry of morning traffic jams and make entertaining a challenge. So, if you’re considering selling and your home only has one bathroom, it might be worth exploring the possibility of adding another.
7. Poorly Maintained Gardens
A well-maintained garden can be a major selling point for a home. On the flip side, a garden that’s overgrown or neglected can deter potential buyers.
Gardens require regular maintenance, and a neglected garden suggests to buyers that other parts of the house might also lack care. So, if you have a garden, make sure it’s looking its best before you list your home.
8. Lack of Parking Space
Parking is often at a premium, especially in urban areas. Lack of parking space can be a major inconvenience, and it’s a common complaint among potential buyers.
If your property doesn’t come with a garage or a dedicated parking spot, buyers might think twice about making an offer. If possible, try to create a parking solution that works for your property.
9. Old Heating and Cooling Systems
Comfort is key in any home, and this is largely dictated by the efficiency of its heating and cooling systems. Old, unreliable systems can be a big concern for buyers, as they can lead to high energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. If your heating and cooling systems are old, consider upgrading them before you sell.
10. No Laundry Room
Doing laundry is a necessary chore, and having a dedicated space to do it can make the task much more manageable. Homes without a laundry room can be a major turn-off for buyers.
If you don’t have a laundry room, consider creating one before you list your home. Even a small space with room for a washer and dryer can make a big difference.
11. Outdated Bathrooms
Like kitchens, bathrooms are heavily scrutinized by potential buyers. An outdated bathroom can be a major turn-off, especially if the plumbing is old or there are visible signs of wear and tear.
If your bathrooms haven’t been updated in a while, it might be worth investing in some modern touches.
12. Lack of Outdoor Living Space
Outdoor living spaces are increasingly popular, and many buyers are looking for homes with a deck, patio, or other outdoor areas where they can relax and entertain.
A lack of outdoor living space can be a major disadvantage when selling your home. If possible, consider adding an outdoor living space to boost your home’s appeal.
13. Low Ceiling Heights
High ceilings can make a room feel spacious and luxurious, but not all homes are blessed with this feature. Low ceilings can make a room feel cramped and dark, and they’re a common complaint among potential buyers.
If you’re selling a home with low ceilings, consider ways to enhance the sense of space, such as using light colors and strategic lighting.
14. Poor Interior Paint Choices
The color of your walls can have a significant impact on the look and feel of your home. Bold or unusual color choices can deter potential buyers, who often prefer neutral colors that provide a blank canvas for their own decor.
If your walls are painted in bold colors, it might be worth repainting them in a more neutral palette before listing your home.
15. Noisy Neighborhoods
No one wants to live in a noisy neighborhood, and this is a common complaint among potential buyers. Whether it’s traffic noise, loud neighbors, or a nearby railway, noise can significantly impact a home’s desirability. If you’re selling a home in a noisy neighborhood, consider ways to reduce noise, such as installing double-glazed windows or planting noise-reducing shrubs and trees.
So there you have it, the top 15 home features that real estate agents say buyers complain about most. By being aware of these issues, you can take steps to make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Good luck!
