10 Things That Could Kill Your Home Sale (and Cost You Thousands)

Thinking About Selling Your Home?

If you're planning to put your home on the market, there are 10 things you need to avoid—because they could not only turn off potential buyers but also cost you thousands of dollars. Something as simple as a strong odor or excessive clutter can make buyers walk away without even considering an offer. In this guide, we’re breaking down the top 10 home-selling mistakes and how to fix them before listing your property.

1. Visible Signs of Neglect or Distress

Buyers are naturally skeptical. When they see peeling paint, unfinished projects, or broken fixtures, they start wondering what else might be wrong with the house. Even small cosmetic issues can raise red flags.

How to Fix It:

• Walk through your home with a critical eye, looking for visible signs of wear and tear.
• Fix minor cosmetic issues such as chipped paint, cracked tiles, and loose doorknobs.
• Consider hiring a handyman to take care of any lingering maintenance projects.
• Power wash the exterior, clean the windows, and maintain the landscaping to boost curb appeal.

2. Clutter and Personal Items Everywhere

Too much furniture can make rooms feel cramped, and excessive decor can distract buyers from seeing the home’s true potential. Buyers struggle to visualize themselves in a space that feels overly personalized.

How to Fix It:

• Declutter every room, removing unnecessary furniture and decorations.
• Store personal items such as family photos, diplomas, and collectibles.
• Use neutral decor and simple staging techniques to create a welcoming atmosphere.
• If necessary, rent a storage unit to keep excess furniture and belongings out of sight.

3. Overwhelming Presence of Pets

We love our pets, but not all buyers do. Some are allergic, while others are simply put off by pet-related odors, fur, or litter boxes.

How to Fix It:

• Deep clean carpets, rugs, and furniture to remove pet odors and hair.
• Keep pet toys, beds, and food bowls out of sight during showings.
• If possible, arrange for pets to stay with a friend or at a pet daycare during open houses.
• Address any damage caused by pets, such as scratched doors or chewed baseboards.

4. Strong Odors or Artificial Scents

Whether it’s from cooking, smoking, or pets, strong odors can drive buyers away. Overpowering air fresheners or scented candles don’t fix the issue—they make it worse.

How to Fix It:

• Identify the source of odors and clean thoroughly (e.g., deep clean carpets, scrub walls, and wash fabrics).
• Avoid cooking strong-smelling foods before a showing.
• Use natural, mild scents like fresh flowers or a lightly scented candle.
• Open windows to allow fresh air to circulate before showings.

5. Bright or Unusual Wall Colors

Buyers prefer neutral tones. While you might love your bold accent wall, potential buyers might not.

How to Fix It:

• Repaint brightly colored walls with neutral shades such as beige, light gray, or off-white.
• Choose a consistent, cohesive color palette throughout the house.
• If repainting isn’t an option, use neutral decor and lighting to tone down bold colors.

6. Poor Lighting

Dark rooms feel small and unwelcoming.

How to Fix It:

• Replace outdated or dim light fixtures with modern, bright alternatives.
• Use LED bulbs for a brighter, more energy-efficient lighting solution.
• Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light.
• Add mirrors to reflect light and make rooms feel larger.

7. Firearms and Prescription Medications Left Out

Leaving valuables, firearms, or medications in open view is not only a security risk but also makes buyers feel uneasy.

How to Fix It:

• Store firearms in a locked safe and keep keys out of reach.
• Secure prescription medications in a locked cabinet.
• Avoid leaving personal documents or bills in plain sight.

8. Too Many Security Cameras Inside

While exterior security cameras are generally fine, having cameras in every room can make buyers uncomfortable.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off or remove indoor security cameras during showings.
• Use a Ring doorbell or a single security camera in a common area if necessary.

9. Too Many Personal Photos and Memorabilia

Buyers want to picture themselves living in the home. If your walls are covered in personal photos, awards, and memorabilia, it can make that difficult.

How to Fix It:

• Remove excessive personal photos and family portraits.
• Replace them with neutral artwork or decorative mirrors.
• Keep shelves and tables free of overly personal items like trophies or religious artifacts.

10. The Seller Being Present During Showings

Buyers feel uncomfortable when the seller is present, and they won’t spend as much time in the home or ask the questions they need to.

How to Fix It:

• Leave the house during showings and let your real estate agent handle interactions.
• If you must be home, stay out of the way and avoid engaging with buyers.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Home Buyer-Ready

Selling a home is all about creating the best first impression. By avoiding these 10 mistakes, you’ll not only attract more buyers but also increase the likelihood of receiving strong offers. If you’re unsure about what needs fixing or updating, consult a trusted real estate professional who can guide you through the process.

Did we miss anything? Drop a comment below with what YOU think sellers should avoid having in their homes during showings!

Watch the full video on YouTube for more expert insights!