Most developers put a huge amount of time, effort, and investment into new-builds and renovations, but there are some common mistakes that instantly put buyers off. If you’re looking to maximise ROI and create homes that buyers want to live in, avoid these ten pitfalls…
1. Cheap Fixtures That Feel, Well… Cheap
Buyers can tell when fixtures have been chosen on price rather than quality. Thin doors, flimsy handles, small hinges, plastic light switches—these details scream “budget build” and make even a high-end property feel low-end. Spend a little more on the things people touch every day.
2. Bad Lighting Design
A single ceiling light in every room isn’t enough. Poorly lit homes feel cold, flat, and uninviting. Buyers expect layered lighting. Downlights for function, pendants for style, and wall lights for warmth. Get this right, and a home instantly feels more high-end. Colour temperature is also crucial to get right, ignore the electricians who tell you kitchens and bathrooms should be <3000Kelvin, go for 2700K throughout for a uniform and welcoming look.
3. Tiny, Awkward Bedrooms
Developers often squeeze in an extra bedroom for resale value, but a “bedroom” that barely fits a single bed is a waste of space. Buyers would rather have three well-proportioned rooms than four tiny, impractical ones.
4. Open-Plan Overload
Open-plan spaces look great in marketing brochures, but buyers still want a bit of separation, especially post-pandemic. Thoughtfully designed layouts with some division (glass or slatted partitions, half-walls) feel more liveable.
5. Lack of Storage
If there’s no built-in storage, buyers start mentally adding up extra costs. Smart storage solutions (think hidden cupboards, built-in wardrobes) make a home feel bigger and more functional.
6. Ignoring Acoustics
Thin walls and poor insulation turn homes into echo chambers. Nobody wants to hear every conversation from the next room. Soundproofing between floors and rooms makes a property feel higher quality.
7. Poorly Planned Kitchens
A beautiful kitchen is useless if it’s badly designed. No prep space, awkwardly placed cupboards, or a fridge miles from the sink? Instant buyer turn-off. Practicality is just as important as aesthetics.
8. Forgetting About Outdoor Space
Even a small garden, terrace, or balcony adds huge value. Buyers are looking for well-thought-out outdoor areas that feel like an extension of the living space.
9. Overcomplicated Smart Tech
Smart homes can be great, but only when they’re user-friendly. Systems that require an instruction manual just to turn on the lights? Buyers won’t bother. Keep it simple and intuitive.
10. Ignoring Energy Efficiency
Buyers are more eco-conscious than ever. Poor insulation, cheap windows, and energy-hungry heating systems are major turn-offs. A-rated appliances, underfloor heating, and solar options make a property far more attractive. I’m not a fan of electric cars but many people are and that trend continues to grow, so make sure you at least put a feed in for a charging point.
Probably the most important and final point is don’t misjudge your demographic. It’s a total waste of money and resources building the wrong type of home in the wrong location. If you’re throwing up starter homes in a place that’s difficult to commute to and the population is mainly wealthy retirees, you’ve missed your mark. Spend more time than you think you should researching your area and build homes to suit your target market.
New-builds and renovations need to be more than just “nice-looking”, they need to be liveable and enhance the buyers lifestyle. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll create homes that buyers love and that sell faster, for a higher price.
Developers, what’s the biggest challenge you face when designing homes? Let me know in the comments!
You can find Studio JQ on socials @thestudiojq and if you’re looking for help with a project, schedule a free consultation on our website www.studiojq.co.uk
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