Property Turnoffs and How They Can Affect Your Property's Value

10 August 2022

If you are wondering what your home is worth, new research suggests there could be a list of turn offs decreasing your home’s value. Here are some to consider…

1. Evidence of animals

Pets can cause damage to property in many ways whether it be from scratching doors to leaving bad odours and hair everywhere – all of which, turns off potential buyers. Evidence of pet damage could impact your property’s overall price by an estimated 4% and decrease the value by over £10,000.

2. Woodworm

Woodworm, the wood-eating larva of many species of beetle, can cause damage to timber that can seriously compromise its structural integrity. If your property shows evidence of woodworm, it’s value could drop by over £1000.

3. Overgrown gardens and poor upkeep

Even though poor upkeep and an overgrown garden are easily resolvable issues compared to some on this list, many buyers will take one look at an overgrown lawn and a clogged gutter and decide this house is a no-go. These factors can not only affect a buyer’s perspective but could also decrease your property’s value.

4. Subsidence 

Subsidence is the term given for ground beneath the property gradually or suddenly starting to sink or settle, affecting the foundations. Signs of subsidence could be 3mm cracks in the walls or ceilings, with the crack wider at the top than bottom. Crinkled wallpaper and doors not shutting correctly due to misshapen frames could also suggest subsidence. This is a serious fault within a property and is a big red flag to potential buyers. 

5. Messy and dirty homes

First impressions are everything when it comes to house viewings, if your house leaves a bad one due to clutter and mess it could cost you 11% of your home’s potential market value. Think of it this way, you wouldn’t show up to an interview with bed hair and unbrushed teeth would you?