"10 Design Blunders That Can Keep Your Home from Selling"

DECORATING your home can be enjoyable – until it deters potential buyers.

An expert has pointed out some “tacky” choices you may be making that could hinder your home from selling or receiving the best offer.

Home expert Liv Conlon revealed the top 10 decor mistakes you may be making that can deter buyersCredit: Supplied via Liv Conlon

Liv Conlon, 27, CEO of ThePropertyStagers.co.uk , shared the decor choices you should avoid in your home, even if they tempt you.

From hobby rooms to film or TV themes, consider these decisions carefully in your home…

1. Using one colour throughout the home

While it may be appealing to create a uniform color scheme in your home, the expert suggests avoiding a single color for the entire space.

This can result in a feeling of “smaller and monotonous,” with rooms merging into each other and lacking character.

Liv commented: “I’ve seen homes painted the same color on every wall and carpet. Even neutral tones can feel cold and uninspiring if overused. Bold colors like purple risk making a home feel like it’s sponsored by Cadbury, while red or green can feel overly festive.”

She emphasized that while colors are “wonderful,” it’s essential to incorporate contrasting shades or accents to give each room its unique feel.

2. Film or TV themes

If you are a huge fan of a film or TV series, it may be tempting to decorate your home with themed items.

However, Liv points out that there is a fine line between displaying a small piece of memorabilia and going overboard.

She advises that while it’s normal to showcase your fandom, a “full-scale Tardis” can “overwhelm” a room and make it difficult for potential buyers to envision themselves living there.

3. Hobby rooms

Having a spare room can be a great opportunity to indulge in your hobbies or passions.

Liv cautioned that while this is common, overly eccentric hobbies can be “off-putting.”

She recounted instances of people transforming spare spaces into skate parks or man caves “overflowing with beer bottles.”

Instead, she recommends presenting the room as a guest room or additional bedroom to enhance the home’s appeal—at least during viewings.

4. Garden kitsch

Garden gnomes should be removed to boost curb appealCredit: Getty

Many people have been told that “curb appeal” is crucial and can increase your home’s value.

To present your house effectively, the property expert recommends removing “garish” ornaments like garden gnomes, maintaining a mowed lawn, and eliminating weeds.

She insists that since the front garden is the first thing a buyer sees, it should be “tidy” and “welcoming.”

5. Designer overload

You may love all things Prada or Fendi – but not everyone shares that sentiment.

Liv stated that the idea of “too much of a good thing” applies to surrounding yourself with designer items.

What might be appealing to some can appear overwhelming and “tacky” to others, according to the professional.

The interior of your home should have a broad appeal, according to LivCredit: Getty

6. Horror film homes

Even if you adore all things gothic or macabre, these themes are a “no-no” when selling your home, as not everyone will appreciate them.

Liv suggested that if your decor includes black walls, skulls on shelves, or eerie lighting, you may find potential buyers quickly leaving the property.

She recommends appealing to a broader audience by enhancing natural light and keeping colors light and inviting.

7. Novelty furniture

While unique furniture