Sell a Home: Design & Feature Trends: What to Avoid and Improvements That Add Value

A homeowner gives their home a fresh look before selling.

When it comes to home design, not all trends stand the test of time. While some features can add value and attract buyers, others can make a home feel outdated or unappealing. Whether you're preparing to sell your home or simply looking to make strategic updates, here’s a breakdown of features to avoid and improvements that can boost your home's value.

Sell a Home: Features to Avoid

Inconsistent Architecture

Mixing architectural styles can be jarring to potential buyers. A ranch-style home with Greek columns or a modern home with rustic barn doors can feel disjointed. Stick to a cohesive style that enhances your home’s original charm.

Oversized Kitchens

Huge kitchens may seem luxurious, but they can feel excessive to buyers who don’t cook often. Instead of focusing on sheer size, create a functional, inviting space with smart storage and cozy dining areas.

Faux “Old World” Design

Trying to recreate European elegance in an American home can feel forced, especially if the materials aren’t authentic. Instead, embrace timeless, natural finishes that complement your home's region and architecture.

White Appliances

White appliances can quickly show stains and age, often turning yellow over time. Stainless steel or black appliances are modern, sleek, and easier to maintain.

Wallpaper

While some wallpaper can add character, it often deters buyers due to its outdated look and the difficulty of removal. Opt for a fresh coat of neutral paint instead.

Carpeted Bathrooms

Carpet in the bathroom is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Stick with tile or luxury vinyl flooring, and use a cozy bath mat for comfort.

Gaudy Gold Fixtures

Shiny gold hardware can make a home look dated. Swap it out for more contemporary finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, or warm brass.

Tiled Countertops

While tiled countertops were trendy in past decades, they require high maintenance and have a cheap appearance compared to granite, quartz, or butcher block alternatives.

Cheap Wood Paneling

Unless your home features high-quality, decorative wainscoting, outdated wood paneling can make a home look dark and old-fashioned. Painting over it or replacing it with drywall can modernize the space.

Taxidermy Displays

Animal mounts can be polarizing. While they may appeal to some buyers in rural areas, others might see them as a turnoff. If selling your home, remove them to create a neutral atmosphere.

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum often looks cheap and outdated. Hardwood, laminate, or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring are better long-term investments that appeal to buyers.

Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings instantly date a home and can be difficult to remove. If you're selling, consider having them smoothed out for a cleaner, modern look.

Glass Mosaic Backsplashes

While once trendy, glass mosaic backsplashes now feel overdone. Consider neutral subway tile or natural stone for a timeless, elegant look.

Bold Paint Colors

Bright and bold colors can make a home feel personalized, but they might not align with a buyer’s tastes. Stick with neutral shades that provide a blank canvas.

Converted Spaces

Turning a garage into a gym or a bedroom into an office might suit your lifestyle, but buyers often prefer traditional layouts. Restore rooms to their original purpose before listing your home.

Carpeting Throughout the Home

Most buyers prefer hardwood or laminate flooring over wall-to-wall carpet, which can trap odors and allergens. If you have carpet, consider replacing it or professionally cleaning it before selling.

Overly High-Maintenance Landscaping

Elaborate gardens, shaped hedges, and koi ponds may look beautiful but can overwhelm buyers who want a low-maintenance yard. Keep landscaping simple and tidy.

Pools & Hot Tubs

While pools may be desirable in warmer climates, many buyers see them as costly and high-maintenance. Above-ground pools and old hot tubs, in particular, can be deal-breakers.

Whirlpool Bathtubs

Large jetted tubs take up valuable bathroom space, use excessive water, and can be tough to clean. Many modern buyers prefer a spacious walk-in shower.

Minimalist Design

Ultra-minimalist designs can make a home feel cold and unwelcoming. Balance clean lines with warm, inviting decor to appeal to more buyers.

Improvements That Add Value

Neutral Colors

Neutral tones help buyers visualize themselves in the home. Consider these popular choices:

• Gray – A sophisticated, modern choice that complements most decor styles.

• Beige & Warm Taupe – A cozy, welcoming option that pairs well with wood tones.

• Soft White – Brightens up a space while allowing for flexibility with decor.

• Light Blue or Green – Calming colors that work well in bedrooms and bathrooms.

Modern Flooring

Replace outdated linoleum or worn carpet with hardwood, laminate, or LVP flooring for an instant upgrade.

Updated Lighting

Swapping out old light fixtures for modern pendants, recessed lighting, or smart lighting systems can enhance a home’s ambiance.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Buyers appreciate homes with energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, and smart thermostats that help reduce utility costs.

Open Floor Plans

If possible, removing non-load-bearing walls to create an open-concept living space can make a home feel larger and more inviting.

Curb Appeal Enhancements

A fresh coat of exterior paint, new house numbers, a modern front door, and well-maintained landscaping can create a great first impression.

Functional Outdoor Spaces

A simple patio, deck, or fire pit area can add value without requiring extensive maintenance.

Updated Kitchen & Bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. Consider minor upgrades like painted cabinets, updated hardware, new backsplashes, and modern faucets to refresh these spaces affordably.

Final Thoughts

When preparing to sell a home, it's important to think like a buyer. Avoiding outdated trends and making strategic improvements can make your property more appealing, helping you sell faster and for a higher price. By keeping things neutral, functional, and timeless, you can ensure that your home remains desirable in any market.

Thinking of selling soon? Start with these simple updates to maximize your home’s value!

📩 Contact me at miguel@zoldly.com or schedule a call today.

— Miguel Dominguez, RCS-D, Real Estate Broker | Creator of Zoldly | US Navy Veteran | 29 Years of Experience