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Homebuyers turned off by garish Christmas lights

Friday, 30 November 2007 12:00 AM

Homeowners should avoid adorning the outside of their property with garish Christmas lights if they are looking to make a sale, according to research from PropertyFinder.co.uk.

The organisation has identified several negative attributes which turn buyers off a property when they are viewing it.

Property markets usually slow towards Christmas making buyers a rare breed.

This year also sees the new home information packs (Hips) introduced for all properties on December 14th - a move that may slow things further.

But many sellers are ruining their chances of securing a deal by adorning their house with over-the-top Christmas decorations.

As many as 76 per cent of Brits would be deterred by homes overenthusiastically decked with Christmas decorations - with 36 per cent saying they would be put off if a nearby property was decorated in a similar fashion.

Only broken down vehicles and old furniture littering the garden prove to be a bigger turn off.

"Buying a home is an emotive process so first impressions are everything - an unappealing exterior definitely puts off buyers," said Warren Bright, chief executive of PropertyFinder.

"At this time of year overenthusiastic adornment of properties is a real problem so home sellers should beware. Outdoor Christmas lights are perceived as tacky, and can cause prospective buyers to be put off the property, or even the whole area."

Buyers were also deterred by rubbish in the front garden, caravans, peeling paintwork, national sporting flags and gnomes.

"Competition among sellers is going to be rife over the next couple of months and my top tip is to avoid bold statements both inside and out - prospective buyers like to see a neutral décor on which they could stamp their own identity.

"Christmas is no exception to this rule and decking your home with colourful, flashing lights and tinsel is a big no. Nevertheless, people do like homes to look and feel welcoming, so sellers must find the right balance of tasteful decoration that is in keeping with the tone of the property," concluded Mr Bright.

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