Blog > Don’t Do These Things to Your Home If You Plan on Selling Within Five Years

Don’t Do These Things to Your Home If You Plan on Selling Within Five Years

by Tammy Holdren

Thinking about selling your home in the next five years? 🏡 It’s exciting to imagine your next chapter, but before you start swinging a hammer or buying gallons of neon paint, it’s worth pausing. Some changes that seem fun or “unique” now can actually make it harder to sell your home—or even cost you money down the road.

1. Overly Personalized Renovations

It’s tempting to create your dream home, but ultra-specific styles—like a bright red kitchen or a medieval-themed bathroom—can scare off future buyers. Most people want a blank canvas, not a conversation piece. Stick to neutral colors and classic finishes that appeal to a wider audience.

2. Removing Bedrooms or Bathrooms

Turning a small bedroom into a walk-in closet sounds glamorous, but it could lower your home’s value. Buyers often search by number of bedrooms and bathrooms, so keep those spaces intact. If you need extra storage, look for solutions that don’t involve losing a key room.

3. DIY Projects Without Permits

Unpermitted work—like finishing a basement or adding a deck—might save money now, but it can create big headaches later. Buyers (and their inspectors) will want to see proper paperwork. Without it, you may face costly repairs or delays at closing.

4. High-Maintenance Landscaping

That koi pond or elaborate topiary garden might be your pride and joy, but not everyone has a green thumb. Complex landscaping can intimidate buyers who want an easy-care yard. Opt for tidy, low-maintenance plants and simple outdoor spaces.

5. Skipping Regular Maintenance

It’s easy to put off cleaning gutters or servicing the HVAC, but neglect can add up. Small issues turn into big repairs, which can scare off buyers or lower your asking price. Keep up with routine care—it pays off when it’s time to sell.