3 Things That Scare Homebuyers Away (and How To Fix Them)

By Kevin Yoder

Kevin Yoder launched his real estate career in 2002 and has been performing in the top 1% of agents worldwide for over two decades.

It’s fall in Grand Rapids, and while the spooky season might be perfect for Halloween, the last thing you want is buyers being scared away from your home. Selling a home is all about creating a welcoming first impression, and even minor details can send the wrong signal. The good news is that most of these issues are easy to spot and even easier to fix. Here are three small things that can kill a buyer’s interest and how you can address them before they hurt your sale.

1. Lingering odors leave a lasting impression. When a buyer walks through your front door, their first impression isn’t just visual, it’s often what they smell. Lingering odors from pets, smoke, or even last night’s dinner can be instant deal breakers. Cat urine and cigarette smoke are tough to remove and nearly impossible to ignore. If you suspect your home has any lingering smells, invest in professional cleaning, replace filters, and air out the space completely. Don’t try to mask odors with sprays or candles; deep cleaning is the only way to make a real difference.

2. Deferred maintenance sends the wrong message. Small repairs that get postponed over the years, like chipped paint, cracked windows, worn carpets, or missing lightbulbs. These may seem minor, but together they create a lasting negative impression. Buyers start to wonder what else might be wrong beneath the surface. A quick pre-inspection and weekend of touch-ups can completely change how your home feels. The goal is to have your home’s condition in person match what buyers loved about it online.

3. Dark rooms make homes feel smaller. Lighting plays a huge role in how a buyer perceives space. Dark or dimly lit rooms can feel smaller, colder, and less inviting. Before showings, open all blinds, clean windows, replace bulbs, and use warm, natural light wherever possible. A bright, airy home instantly feels larger and more comfortable, the kind of space buyers want to picture themselves living in.

Selling a home doesn’t have to feel like a guessing game. By addressing these small but powerful details, you can create a space that feels fresh, inviting, and move-in ready. If you’re planning to sell this fall and want expert guidance to get your home ready, reach out to me at 616-741-3582, email kevin@soldbyyoder.com, or visit soldbyyoder.com. Let’s make sure your home shines this season and gives buyers every reason to say yes.