Christmas homebuyers are a ‘rare breed’

Permalink: Christmas homebuyers are a ‘rare breed’
by Kay Murchie

As the festive season approaches, many are put off by selling their home and usually leave it until the New Year. However, those looking to sell their home at this time of year should avoid tacky Christmas lights, according to research from PropertyFinder.co.uk.

The company has discovered many items which deter buyers when viewing a property. 76% would be put off by garish Christmas decorations and sellers could be ruining their chances of selling by decorating their house with over-the-top decorations.

Furthermore, buyers were put off by old furniture, broken down cars, shabby paintwork, gnomes and other junk littered outside a home.

Warren Bright of PropertyFinder said buying a home is an emotional process so first impressions are everything, a shabby exterior can certainly deter buyers. Mr Bright added over-enthusiastic decorations at this time of year can be a real issue so those selling their home should be aware of this.

Mr Bright continued that over the next few months, competition among sellers is going to be rife. He suggests avoiding bold statements both inside and out, potential buyers like to see neutral colours. However, homes should be welcoming so sellers must find the right balance of tasteful decoration that is in keeping with the tone of the property concluded Mr Bright.

December 14 sees the launch of Home Information Packs for all properties, a move which is expected to slow things further.