When selling a property in Dubai, every detail matters, and decoration can play a crucial role. Poor choices can distract potential buyers and even reduce the overall appeal of the property. What are the key mistakes to avoid to maximize your chances of closing a deal ?
Excessive decoration
Too much furniture or accessories can make a space feel suffocating and give the impression of a lack of space. In fact, an overly cluttered interior prevents buyers from visualizing the potential of the space. Rooms often appear smaller and less functional. Therefore, it is essential to declutter, keeping only the essentials and opting for furniture that enhances the space. Use shelves, storage solutions, or small tables instead of bulky furniture to maximize the feeling of space.
Too bold or mismatched colors
Vivid colors like red, yellow, or orange can be too intrusive and off-putting for a wide audience. Personalized or overly bold colors, such as walls painted in unconventional shades, may make the space less attractive. Potential buyers often have difficulty imagining the interior with their own tastes in an environment that is too distinctive. It is therefore recommended to choose neutral and calming colors (white, light gray, beige) that help highlight the space and appeal to a larger audience.
Poor lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in the perception of an interior. Insufficient or poorly directed lighting can make rooms dark and uninviting, especially in spaces without windows or rooms facing north. The goal is to install light sources that create a warm atmosphere and highlight the home’s assets. Opt for dimmable lamps, recessed spots, or well-placed fixtures to properly illuminate each room. Natural light is also a major asset, so avoid blocking windows with overly thick curtains.
Old or damaged furniture
Worn or damaged furniture can give the impression that the entire property is neglected or poorly maintained. Even though some buyers may consider updating the furniture, it can create a psychological barrier and a negative perception of the property. It is best to renovate or replace degraded furniture with modern and well-maintained pieces, or at least rearrange those that can still serve. Investing in a few neutral and elegant furniture pieces can greatly improve the attractiveness of the space.
Too personal decoration
Overly personal decorations, such as family photos, vacation souvenirs, or unique objects, can make the space difficult for a buyer to assess. The buyer may struggle to imagine themselves in the home if there are too many identifiable elements from the current owners’ lives. It’s important to depersonalize the space so that buyers can envision the interior as their own. Removing overly personal items and favoring neutral decor, such as abstract paintings, plants, or discreet accessories, can make the space more universal and welcoming.
Poor furniture arrangement
The arrangement of furniture is a key aspect of showcasing a property. Poor layout can create a feeling of chaos and reduce the flow of movement between rooms. An impractical setup, such as couches too close to doors or furniture blocking passageways, can make it seem like the space is poorly optimized. It is recommended to rearrange furniture in a way that highlights the available space, emphasizing the property’s features, such as views or open areas. Keep pathways clear and create distinct zones in rooms to maximize the feeling of space.
Poorly chosen rugs or curtains
Eye-catching, mismatched, or worn rugs can detract from the overall look of the room. Heavy curtains or those that don’t fit the windows properly can also block natural light or give an outdated look. It is advised to choose lightweight, modern fabrics in neutral colors for curtains and rugs to avoid overshadowing other decorative elements. Additionally, a well-placed rug can help structure the space, but ensure it is appropriately sized and well-maintained to avoid taking up too much space or creating visual clutter.
Unpleasant odors
Smell plays a very important role in the visitor experience. Bad odors (mold, cooking smells, pets) can instantly drive buyers away. It’s crucial to frequently air out rooms and clean areas that may generate odors. If an unpleasant smell persists, it may be necessary to call in professional cleaning or decontamination services. However, be careful not to mask bad odors with overly strong or artificial fragrances, which can also be off-putting. Opt for subtle, natural solutions instead.
Too much seasonal decoration
Seasonal decorations, such as Christmas or Halloween decor, or overly festive objects, can seem out of place and give a sense of temporality. They can distract buyers from the essential features of the property. It is better to maintain a more neutral and timeless decoration so that buyers can focus on the space itself, rather than on items that may seem seasonal or circumstantial.
Neglecting the exterior
If the property has a garden, terrace, or balcony, it is essential not to neglect these areas. A poorly maintained exterior, overrun with vegetation, dirty, or uninviting, can quickly give an impression of general neglect. Potential buyers might even be discouraged from visiting the interior if the exterior seems in poor condition. Take care to mow the lawn, trim the hedges, clean the floors, and add some plants or outdoor furniture to make the space more attractive and inviting. A well-maintained exterior greatly enhances the value of a property, especially for homes with gardens.
