5 Surprising Factors That Can Lower Your Home’s Value

Your home is a major investment, and protecting its value is key whether you’re selling soon or planning to stay. While renovations and curb appeal are important, some unexpected factors can quietly hurt your property’s worth. Here’s a quick look at five surprising culprits and how to address them.

1. Excessive Personalization

Unique features like bold paint colors or custom room conversions (e.g., a garage turned gym) may not appeal to buyers.
Fix it: Use neutral colors, choose reversible customizations, and offer to undo major changes before listing.

2. Poorly Maintained Landscaping

A neglected yard with overgrown lawns or dead plants signals potential issues to buyers.
Fix it: Mow regularly, remove weeds, and plant low-maintenance greenery for lasting curb appeal.

3. Unpleasant Odors

Lingering smells from pets, smoke, or cooking can turn buyers away.
Fix it: Deep clean carpets and upholstery, use air purifiers, and improve ventilation by opening windows.

4. Shoddy DIY Renovations

Poorly done DIY projects, like uneven flooring or outdated fixtures, can make your home look unprofessional.
Fix it: Stick to simple projects, hire pros for complex tasks, and redo subpar work before selling.

5. Nearby Foreclosures or Neglected Homes

A rundown neighborhood with foreclosures or vacant properties can drag down your home’s value.
Fix it: Stay active in your community, report neglected properties, and keep your own home’s exterior pristine.

Conclusion

Small details matter when it comes to your home’s value. By tackling these issues—personalization, landscaping, odors, DIY mistakes, and neighborhood upkeep—you can protect your investment and make your home more appealing to buyers. Have you faced any surprising factors affecting your home’s value? Share your thoughts below!