10 things that can devalue a house and how to address them

When it comes to selling your home, most of us want to get the best price possible.

But did you know there are certain factors that can significantly devalue your property?

Some of these issues are within your control, while others might require a little extra effort to mitigate.

Knowing what these factors are can help you make informed decisions and take proactive steps to protect your investment. 

In this article, we’ll explore the key things that can devalue your home and provide tips on how to address them.

1. Neglecting regular maintenance 

Homes that show signs of neglect, such as peeling paint, broken fixtures, or overgrown gardens, can turn buyers off.

Poor maintenance gives the impression that the property hasn’t been cared for, which can lead buyers to wonder about hidden issues. 

How to address it: 

• Perform regular maintenance checks, including plumbing, roofing, and electrical systems.
• Repaint and repair visible damage to maintain kerb appeal.
• Keep the garden tidy and inviting. 

2. Damp and mould 

Damp and mould are major red flags for buyers.

Not only do they affect the aesthetics of your home, but they can also indicate underlying structural or ventilation issues. 

How to address it: 

• Fix any leaks and ensure proper drainage around your home. 
• Install or upgrade ventilation systems, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Use anti-mould paint and dehumidifiers to keep dampness at bay. 

According to Property Saviour, untreated damp can reduce your home's value by 53%. 

3. Unapproved renovations 

Making improvements to your home can increase its value, but not if they’ve been done without proper approvals.

Extensions, loft conversions, or other major alterations that lack planning permission or fail to meet building regulations can scare buyers away. 

How to address it: 

• Always consult with local planning authorities before starting a renovation.
• Ensure any work is completed by qualified professionals and complies with UK building regulations. 

• If you’ve inherited unapproved changes, consider getting retrospective planning permission. 

4. Outdated décor 

Your personal taste might not match that of potential buyers.

While quirky wallpaper or bold colours might appeal to you, they can limit a buyer’s ability to visualise the space as their own. 

How to address it: 

• Stick to neutral colours and simple designs when preparing your home for sale. 
• Remove overly personal touches, such as family photos, to create a blank canvas for buyers.
• Declutter to make rooms feel larger and more versatile.

5. Energy inefficiency 

With rising energy costs, buyers are increasingly prioritising energy efficiency when searching for a home. A poor Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating can devalue your property. 

How to address it: 

• Install energy-efficient windows and doors.
• Upgrade your boiler or heating system.
• Add insulation to your walls and loft. 

6. Pest problems 

No one wants to buy a home with a pest problem. Whether it’s rodents, termites, or insects, signs of an infestation can send buyers running. 

How to address it: 

• Call a professional exterminator to handle infestations.
• Seal up cracks and entry points to prevent pests from getting in.
• Keep food stored securely and maintain cleanliness to deter pests. 

7. Noisy neighbours or location 

Noise pollution from nearby roads, railways, or neighbours can significantly affect your home’s appeal.

Buyers might be deterred if they can’t imagine enjoying peace and quiet in their new home. 

How to address it: 

• Invest in double glazing to reduce external noise.
• Consider landscaping options like hedges to act as a sound barrier.
• Work with your neighbours to resolve ongoing noise issues amicably. 

8. Unkempt kerb appeal 

First impressions count. An overgrown garden, dirty windows, or a poorly maintained exterior can put buyers off before they even step inside. 

How to address it: 

• Keep the lawn trimmed and the garden tidy.
• Clean windows, doors, and exterior walls.
• Add simple touches like potted plants or a freshly painted front door to boost kerb appeal. 

9. Boundary issues 

Disputes or unclear property boundaries can lead to legal complications and scare off potential buyers.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of your property’s limits. 

How to address it: 

• Ensure your property’s boundaries are clearly marked and legally defined.
• Resolve disputes with neighbours before putting your home on the market.
• Provide accurate documentation to potential buyers. 

10. Poorly executed DIY projects 

DIY improvements can save money, but if they’re not done properly, they can devalue your home.

Buyers will likely see shoddy workmanship as a sign they’ll need to spend money fixing it. 

How to address it: 

• Stick to simple DIY projects within your skill level.
• For complex work, hire professionals to ensure quality and compliance.
• Fix any existing DIY mishaps before listing your property. 

Final thoughts 

Understanding what can devalue your home is the first step in protecting its worth.

Whether it’s maintaining your property, making smart renovations, or addressing energy efficiency, small changes can have a big impact.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you can ensure your home remains an attractive and valuable asset. 

If you're planning to sell your home and want to understand how these factors might impact your finances, try using a mortgage calculator to estimate how changes to your property value could affect your next steps.

Get connected with a professional financial adviser or mortgage broker via Unbiased to navigate every step of your property journey successfully.