Five Things That May Decrease the Value of Your Home

If you’re thinking of selling your home at some point in time, there are a few things experts suggest you not do because it could potentially decrease the value of your home, making it less appealing to potential homebuyers.

Bold paint colors. When buyers view your home, bold colors may stick out like a sore thumb — especially if it’s a color that doesn’t appeal to them —  and they may be concerned about the extra expense to have the walls repainted. If you decide to use a bolder, brighter color, it’s recommended you use it on an accent wall with lighter shades.

Over-remodeled kitchen. It’s one of the most important rooms in your home, but there’s a point where kitchen remodeling can be overdone, making it disjointed with the rest of your home’s design. The message here is don’t go overboard. Remodel your kitchen so it matches your home’s overall style. Remember, you’re not just selling your kitchen!

Landscaping. It’s the first impression that makes potential buyers want to walk in the door. Get rid of overgrown shrubs and plant new ones. If you have weeds in your lawn, apply a good weed killer to control them. Fertilize the grass to make it look greener. Get rid of any junk or things that don’t belong in both the front and back yards.

Unfinished projects. Whether you’re working on a do-it-yourself project or if you’ve hired a contractor, make sure the work is finished before listing your home for sale. Buyers may view an unfinished job as a potential expense, and, they may not share your vision or imagination as to what the finished project may look like.

Wasted space. If you have a den or spare bedroom that has been turned into a storage area or exercise area, return it to its original use. Potential buyers want to visualize how every square foot can be used, especially if home prices in your market are based largely on square footage. Besides, just because you needed added storage and felt like it was a good idea, a prospective borrower may not.