New research has found that household factors, including pets, smoking, and poor maintenance, are deterring potential homebuyers before they even view properties in person.
A survey of 500 UK adults commissioned by David Wilson Homes found that online property listings can be make-or-break for sellers.
Evidence of smoking, poor maintenance, and signs of pets living at the residence were all considered irreconcilable to prospective buyers.
The findings come as 27 per cent of Britons are considering selling their homes, with 47 per cent of those looking to upsize and 29 per cent aiming to downsize.
David Wilson Homes' research aimed to identify what turns buyers off before viewing properties.
The study discovered that 63 per cent of buyers are put off by signs of smoking in property photos, making it the biggest visual dealbreaker.
Signs include ashtrays, yellow stains on walls and curtains, so homeowners may want to address these before listing.
For those dealing with smoking damage, deep cleaning carpets, repainting affected walls, and airing out spaces before listing are essential steps.
63 per cent of buyers are put off by signs of smoking in property photos
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It's worth noting, though, that ahead of your in-person viewing, cigarette smoke tends to linger, even after attempts have been made to conceal it.
Evidence of poor maintenance, such as peeling plaster or mould, also proved problematic for prospective buyers, with 54 per cent citing it as a "dealbreaker".
Meanwhile, 36 per cent of respondents said they would be deterred by signs of pets living at the property.
According to the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), 51 per cent of Britons now own pets, making this a significant concern for sellers.
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51% of us have them, but signs of pets could be deterring buyers before they step through the door
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With prospective buyers concerned about lingering odours and potential allergens, homeowners are advised to remove all pet-related items when preparing properties for photographs.
Thorough cleaning of surfaces and soft furnishings is essential to address potential odours and allergens.
Beyond pets, the study identified other image mistakes that deter buyers. A cluttered kitchen with dishes left on the side is enough to put 25 per cent of respondents off viewing a property in person, according to findings.
An unmade or messy bed proved problematic for a similar 21 per cent of potential buyers viewing online listings.
First impressions are crucial when house hunting, and a tidy bed can "help create a sense that a home has been well looked after".
Overly personal decorations deter 20 per cent of homebuyers, the research found.
Excessive family photos, children's drawings on walls or murals may make youfeel at home.
However, they can make it difficult for buyers to envision themselves in the space.
In light of this, David Wilson Homes recommends that sellers opt for neutral décor and remove overly personal items before taking listing photos.
For Britons looking to put their homes on the market, it's also important to avoid a key furnishing mistake that "puts people off".
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