Hidden Pitfalls Decreasing Your Home’s Value – top tips from Upstix CEO
Upstix sees asking prices drop hundreds of pounds every week a property is on the market – the Hidden Pitfalls That Could Be Decreasing Your Home’s Value – And What Sellers Need to Know
Selling a home is one of life’s biggest financial decisions, but even the most desirable properties can fall short of their potential if key issues are overlooked. Fast selling property company Upstix has found that every week a property lingers on the market unsold costs the owner 0.0025% of their asking price on average – about £750 a week on a £300,000 home*. Upstix is warning homeowners to be aware of a number of factors, some fixable, some beyond their control, that can significantly affect the value and appeal of their property.
1. General state of disrepair – Including an overgrown garden
A neglected home signals red flags to potential buyers. From peeling paint to unkempt gardens, visible signs of disrepair can imply deeper, hidden problems. Beyond the immediate cost and effort to put things right, the overall perception is one of a home that hasn’t been cared for—making it harder for buyers to imagine themselves living there.
2. Overpricing your property
In today’s digital-savvy market, buyers know exactly what similar homes on the street are worth. Setting an unrealistic asking price not only deters interest but can cause your property to languish unsold. As time drags on, the listing may gain a negative stigma, and estate agents may deprioritise marketing efforts. Ironically, this often leads to lower offers than if the home had been priced correctly from the start.
3. Unfinished or costly repairs
Big-ticket fixes—like an old, unused swimming pool, dilapidated kitchens, or bathroom overhauls—can be deal-breakers. Prospective buyers may be unwilling to take on the extra stress and financial burden right after moving in, and are likely to offer significantly below asking to account for the work needed. Homes that require major investment often come with a “fixer-upper” label—great for some, but a turn-off for the majority.
4. Neighbouring property neglect
While you can’t control your neighbours, their upkeep (or lack thereof) can impact your sale. A poorly maintained adjacent property can raise concerns about the area’s desirability, hinting at possible antisocial behaviour or general neglect. This can affect kerb appeal and make buyers think twice before making an offer.
5. Unsightly or worrying infrastructure nearby
Pylons, mobile phone towers, powerlines, and even wind turbines can be a sticking point. Whether it’s due to aesthetic concerns, noise, or perceived health risks, these structures can emotionally and visually impact a buyer’s willingness to proceed—and the price they’re willing to pay.
6. Water damage or flood risk
Flood zones are becoming an increasing concern, particularly in light of changing weather patterns. Beyond potential property damage, high insurance premiums, difficulty securing a mortgage, and the risk of future disruptions make these homes a harder sell. Many buyers will simply walk away rather than take on the risk.
Fred Jones, CEO at Upstix, said: “Buyers don’t just purchase bricks and mortar—they buy into a lifestyle and a future. Creating a welcoming, well-maintained environment that feels move-in ready is key to securing a timely and profitable sale.”
Before listing your property, consider a thorough assessment of not just your home, but its surroundings. Fix what you can, price wisely, and prepare to be honest and strategic about what you can’t change”.
Upstix offers homeowners a fast and straightforward route to sell their property, making instant cash offers and completing transactions in as little as seven days. For homeowners seeking certainty and speed, Upstix provides a reliable alternative to traditional home selling.
For homeowners looking to quickly and transparently start the process of selling a home, Upstix’s Instant Cash Offer portal allows sellers to receive an instant property valuation and cash offer range for their property. It uses AI to analyse available data about a property and neighbourhood to provide an estimated price range.
You May Also Enjoy
Mould and damp – what you need to know ahead of winter
Rental price and average salary tracker – September 2025
The cities where buying beats renting – with just a 5% deposit
Rightmove’s Weekly Mortgage Rates Tracker
Data and commentary from Rightmove on stamp duty reforms
