Homeowners looking to sell may be unwittingly reducing their property's value by thousands of pounds, according to property expert Danny Johnson from Danny Buys Houses. Having bought and sold hundreds of houses, Johnson has identified several factors that can significantly decrease a home's market price.
Outdated windows are a major culprit, potentially cutting value by five to ten per cent. Buyers expect double glazing as standard, and poor-quality windows suggest future replacement costs. Similarly, older properties from the 1960s and 1970s often feature 'horrible brick colours' that can put off buyers and reduce value by as much as ten per cent.
The biggest hit comes from botched DIY projects. Johnson warned that 'bad additions' such as shoddy workmanship, poor paintwork and unauthorised modifications can send buyers 'running for the hills' and devalue a home by up to 20 per cent. He advises investing in professional decorators and builders to boost property value.
Outdated carpet is another turnoff, reducing value by five per cent or more depending on coverage, as modern buyers prefer hardwood flooring. Additionally, bedrooms that can only be accessed by passing through other bedrooms are a significant deterrent, effectively counting as one less bedroom in the eyes of potential purchasers.
