Home Décor Mistakes That Can Decrease Your Property Value

When it comes to decorating your home, your personal style should shine. But if you're thinking about selling — now or even a few years down the line — some choices can actually hurt your home's value. As real estate pros, we've seen some common décor missteps that can make potential buyers hesitate or lower their offers.

Here are a few home décor mistakes that could cost you when it’s time to sell:

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1. Overly bold paint colors

   A lime green living room or a deep red dining room might speak to your personality — but they may scream “project” to a buyer. Loud or overly personal color choices often make homes feel less move-in ready. Stick to soft neutrals that let the space shine and appeal to a broader audience.

2. Too Much Wallpaper

   Wallpaper can be stylish when done right, but it's also very taste-specific — and tough to remove. An entire room wrapped in floral or geometric patterns may make a space feel busy and turn buyers off before they even think about the layout.

3. Heavy Window Treatments

   Dated or overly ornate curtains can make a space feel darker and smaller. Natural light is a huge selling point, so skip the heavy drapes and opt for clean, simple window coverings that brighten and open up the room.

4. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting (Especially in High-Traffic Areas)

   Buyers today want hardwood floors or luxury vinyl. Old carpet — even if it’s clean — gives the impression that the home hasn’t been updated. Worse, if it’s a bold color or pattern, it can instantly date your space.

5. Too Much Customization

   Built-in fish tanks, quirky murals, themed rooms (like a jungle-themed bathroom or sports bar basement) may be fun, but they limit the appeal. Buyers often can’t “unsee” a space, and too much customization means more time and money for them to change it.

6. Cluttered or Over-Personalized Spaces

   Décor that feels too “lived in” — family photos on every wall, knick-knacks on every shelf, and crowded furniture — can make a home feel smaller and harder for buyers to visualize as their own.

7. Cheap or Mismatched Fixtures

   Inconsistent lighting, mismatched hardware, or builder-grade fixtures can cheapen the feel of your home. Swapping in modern, cohesive finishes is an easy way to elevate your space without a full renovation.

Final Thoughts:

Home décor is an extension of you — but if resale is on your mind, a few small tweaks can protect (and even boost) your home’s value. If you ever want a second opinion or need help figuring out what’s worth updating before you sell, we’re happy to come take a look.

At Roman Balandin Realty, we’re here not just to sell homes — but to help you protect your biggest asset.