If you're planning to sell your home in 2024, you want to make sure that it's appealing to potential buyers. Home design trends change over time, and what was once considered stylish can quickly become outdated. To help you get your home ready for the market, we’ve compiled a list of eight home trends that you should ditch before selling. Let’s dive in!
1. Over-the-Top Accent Walls
Once heralded as a bold design choice, the over-the-top accent wall has lost its charm for many buyers. While a well-placed accent wall can add character, the trend has shifted toward more subtle room designs. Bright colors and dramatic patterns can feel overwhelming and don’t appeal to everyone's taste.
Instead, consider opting for a balanced approach. Freshen up your walls with a coat of neutral paint in soft grays or calming pastels. If you still want a hint of color or character, a tasteful gallery wall showcasing a curated selection of art or framed photographs can serve as a beautiful focal point without the intimidation of a bold accent wall. This approach allows potential buyers to better visualize their belongings in the space, making it more inviting.
2. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
In the past, wall-to-wall carpeting was considered a luxury flooring option, but this trend has waned. Many buyers today seek homes that feature hard surface flooring like hardwood, laminate, or tile. These materials not only offer a modern aesthetic but also provide practical benefits, such as ease of cleaning and maintenance.
According to real estate experts, homes with hardwood floors can sell for higher prices and spend less time on the market compared to those with carpets. If your home features carpeting, consider replacing it with hardwood or engineered wood flooring, or even high-quality laminate. If the layout allows, area rugs can provide comfort and warmth without compromising style. This upgrade can drastically improve the overall feel of your home and enhance its marketability.
3. Excessive Open Shelving
Open shelving has been a popular trend in kitchens and living spaces, promoting a sense of openness and accessibility. However, many buyers have grown tired of the clutter that often accompanies this style. While some open shelves can create visual interest, excessive open shelving can make a room feel chaotic and unpolished.
Instead of overwhelming potential buyers with stacks of dishes and kitchen gadgets, consider integrating a mix of open shelving and closed cabinetry. This hybrid approach allows for decorative displays while maintaining a clean appearance. Utilize closed cabinets for items that don’t need to be showcased, reserving open shelves for a few select pieces that can brighten the space. The goal here is to create a sense of curated style without the pressure of constant upkeep.
4. Dark and Heavy Furniture
While dark wood and oversized furniture once dominated living spaces, trends have shifted toward lighter, more minimalistic designs. Large, heavy furniture can make a room feel cramped, while lighter pieces can create a sense of airiness that many buyers crave.
To update your home’s aesthetic, consider replacing heavy furniture with lighter or more streamlined options. Sofas and chairs in light fabrics or neutral colors can open up a room and make it feel more inviting. Similarly, glass-top tables, light wood finishes, and multifunctional furniture can enhance space and create visual flow. Such updates also allow for greater flexibility in interior design, appealing to a wider array of tastes.
5. DIY Renovations Gone Wrong
The popularity of DIY projects has surged in recent years, but sometimes these endeavors can result in less-than-perfect outcomes. Whether it's a half-finished renovation, uneven tile work, or mismatched fixtures, poorly executed DIY projects can give potential buyers pause.
To remedy this, assess any DIY projects within your home carefully. If you’ve made attempts at renovation that need a professional’s touch, or if certain repairs are necessary, it’s worth investing in skilled craftsmanship. Buyers may be deterred if they see too many quick fixes or questionable aesthetics. Hiring professionals to complete or redo projects ensures a polished look and reassures buyers that they won’t have to tackle extensive repairs after purchase.
6. Neon Colors and Bold Patterns
Bright neon colors and busy patterns can make a lasting impression, but not always a good one. While unique styles can be fun, they often alienate potential buyers who may not share your personal aesthetic. Many buyers are looking for homes that provide a blank canvas for them to personalize.
Instead of loud colors or patterns, transition your space into more universally appealing tones. Neutral palettes, such as soft grays, subtle beiges, and pastel colors can create warmth and approachability. If you have a particularly dramatic room, neutralize it with fresh paint and stylish decor that supports your new color scheme. Soft textiles, tasteful artwork, and well-placed decor can still denote character without overwhelming prospective buyers.
7. Outdated Fixtures and Hardware
Old fixtures and hardware can make a home feel dated and neglected. Buyers often take note of these details, and outdated finishes can give the impression that a home hasn’t been maintained properly.
Updating items like drawer knobs, cabinet handles, door hardware, and light fixtures can be a relatively inexpensive way to enhance your home’s appeal. Consider using modern designs in brushed nickel, matte black, or even polished brass as trendy accents that elevate the overall aesthetic. Additionally, replacing outmoded light fixtures with contemporary designs or energy-efficient options can also improve the ambiance of your rooms while appealing to modern sensibilities.
8. Overly Themed Rooms
Themed rooms can be fun for families, but they often limit the appeal of a home to a select group of buyers. Overly themed spaces, such as a dedicated sports room or an elaborate pirate-themed nursery, can be off-putting for many who may not share your enthusiasm for specific topics.
Instead, aim for flexibility and neutrality in the design of your spaces. Room layouts that are adaptable can help buyers envision how they would use the space. For example, if you have a themed room that heavily features specific decor, consider reimagining it as a blank canvas with minimal decor that invites new ideas. This encourages prospective buyers to picture themselves living in the home rather than feeling restricted by your choices.
Conclusion
Selling your home in 2024 requires an understanding of both current market dynamics and buyer preferences. By ditching these eight outdated home trends, you’ll create an inviting space that appeals to a broad audience. Instead of lingering in the past, embrace contemporary aesthetics that create a welcoming atmosphere. Remember, the goal is to make your home feel like a blank canvas where buyers can imagine their own stories and styles.
With a little effort and strategic updates, you can position your home for a swift and successful sale. Happy selling!
Contact me today with any questions:
Kelly Thompson-Milner, REALTOR
303.587.3846
[email protected]
Kelly’s Additional Credentials:
Residential Construction Certified
New Build Specialist Designation
