Seven Signs Your Home is Outdated
We all get comfortable in our homes over time – so much so that we might not notice when the place is starting to look out of date. Make no mistake about it, though, people who walk into your home are noticing. Here are a few telltale signs that it’s time to think about redecorating or renovating.
Old Wallpaper
Wallpaper is actually back in fashion, but that doesn’t justify your 30-year-old wallpaper. Styles have changed. If you’re still rocking psychedelic sunflowers or an 80s-era explosion of pastels, it’s time for a change. Fading is another good indication that your wallpaper is outdated.
Popcorn Ceilings
These are out, out, out. Popcorn ceilings make a home feel dated and most modern buyers detest them. Fortunately, you can hire a professional to remove them. The work is labor intensive and, thus, not cheap. But it makes an amazing difference in the look and feel of your home.
An Unpleasant Odor
This is a sensitive subject because no one wants to believe their house smells. But older houses often have a musty smell that can be a major turn-off to anyone who walks through the door. Some people can’t detect a scent in their own home because they’re used to it, so pay attention to other people’s reactions when they walk in.
A musty smell could be an indication of a mold or mildew problem, so hire a professional testing service to be sure. Otherwise, the problem can usually be solved by washing or painting walls and having carpets and furniture cleaned or replaced.
Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Most homeowners today prefer hardwood floors in the living spaces and hardwood or ceramic tile in the kitchen. Wall-to-wall carpeting is undesirable these days, although many buyers still prefer carpet for bedrooms.
Oak Cabinets
Oak used to be just about everyone’s first choice for cabinets, just as most homebuyers today insist on granite counters. But the trend is long over. Cherry, pine and maple are far more popular these days.
Linoleum Floors
Ah, linoleum. It screams that a house is outdated. Not only is linoleum considered tacky by most people, it’s harder to clean than hardwoods or tile. New linoleum looks significantly better than the 70s- or 80s-era stuff, but it is still not the most desirable of materials.
Poor Lighting
For some reason, older houses tend to have fewer windows and less lighting. And dark spaces are more apt to look outdated. Modernize your home by adding light fixtures or, if you can afford it, cutting new windows.
