House buying - What is your deal killer?

[KCUnited]

Could be your realitor has seen other comparibles around you and knows what your house may need to compete with other homes on the market in your price range.

[alnorth]

This is the sort of thing that does not lend itself to message board polls. I'd also say "no, I don't think I'd care", but I don't know that because it would be a subconscious response.

A lot of people see 5 or 6 houses that, objectively speaking, they should like equally because all the details of condition, location, layout, etc are very similar, but they will zero in on one because of a vague feeling.

Maybe the realtor is right, or maybe they don't know what they are talking about, but you'd almost need to conduct an experiment with houses that have blue carpet on stairs vs those that have white carpet on stairs to see if there's a noticeable difference in number of people willing to make an offer.

[SenselessChiefsFan]

I have been in real estate 13 years. I am an agent, but the majority of my experience comes from appraising and flipping houses.

#1) Color of carpet does not affect value in an appraisal.

#2) Color of carpet will absolutely make a difference in selling your house.

We can all say that it doesn't matter.... and this and that.... but the reality is that there are two types of homebuyers. The kind that are looking to do some stuff themselves and get sweat equity. And, the kind that just want to move in.

You want the kind wanting to move right in.

This is also different in this housing market as opposed to previous housing markets.

There are tons and tons of foreclosures. And, if a couple is turned off by the color of your carpet, whats to keep them from buying the one down the street that needs new carpet and paint, since it will probably be priced well under yours.

Don't forget to calculate carrying costs when you figure these things. Selling it 30 days sooner will likely get you a return on your investment.