If you’ve ever wondered what went on behind closed doors in Nashville, a look through local real estate listings might give you the answer: unfortunate paint color choices, rooms with enough clutter to supply a yard sale every weekend, and an almost universal obsession with granite counter tops. And those are just the homes on the market, which should at least be trying to make their best impression.
Our homes may be a reflection of ourselves, but this philosophy can backfire when you’re putting a property up for sale. What a seller likes may be too personal for a buyer. If you’re about to enter the market and are in doubt about how your home’s style will appeal to buyers, here are five home-decorating trends that real estate experts have identified as potential buyer turnoffs.
Big and Bold Colors
Bad paint colors instantly turn off buyers — but it’s one of the cheapest things to fix. Almost always I say to stay away from bright colors, which include multiple-colored living spaces, dated colors, and metallic colors. To get the most from your home sale, paint in grey, beige, soft white, and gray hues. Most important? Keep the paint color consistent throughout the home.
Wall-to-wall carpeting
Lush carpeting can feel like a dream underfoot and can be easier to maintain than other flooring options, many buyers see it as a downside (even if it’s high-quality carpet). Everyone wants to see hardwood floors. They’re always in style, and work with any decor scheme.
Shiny Hardware
One of the major trends now is all about chrome, metallic, and shiny finishes. Coco Chanel said it best: ‘Before you walk out the door, check in the mirror and take one accessory off.’ Too many bright fixtures look gaudy. Although you’ll see kitchens with plenty of brass, copper, and polished nickel on Pinterest, it’s worth it to go with the classics — like brushed nickel — and use them sparingly. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing, and subtle and understated always stands the test of time.
