It’s true that home design trends come and go, so it may feel like your choice in decor shouldn’t matter all that much. But unfortunately, a lot of choices can do more harm than good when it comes to your property value. Even if something looked stylish a decade ago, it could now leave potential buyers unimpressed or hesitant.
If you’re planning to renovate or stage your home, here are the design choices you should reconsider to make the most of your property’s appeal.
Overly Formal Dining Rooms
Back in the good old days, people loved a dedicated formal dining room. But today, they seem to be rapidly falling out of favor, especially with open-concept living gaining popularity. These separate spaces can feel outdated to modern buyers who typically value more multifunctional areas.
All-White Kitchens
White is a color associated with cleanliness and purity, so you’d think that would make it an ideal option for your kitchen space. But in 2025, all-white kitchens are starting to feel sterile and overdone. A lot of modern buyers are now drawn to warmer tones, natural materials, and kitchens with a bit of personality.
To update your kitchen, consider introducing subtle color or texture through cabinets, backsplashes, or countertops.
Tuscan-Style Décor
In the early 2000s, ornate Tuscan-inspired interiors were all the rage, but they now seem overly dramatic to many buyers. Think dark wood, wrought iron, and warm earth tones. A good solution is to swap these features out for a lighter, more streamlined aesthetic with neutral tones and modern finishes.
Carpeted Bathrooms
Not so long ago, carpeted bathrooms were a pretty common sight. But today, wall-to-wall carpeting in bathrooms not only feels dated but also raises hygiene concerns for most buyers. This old-fashioned trend has been replaced by easy-to-clean tiles or waterproof luxury vinyl flooring.
Popcorn Ceilings
You probably know that popcorn ceilings have been on the “out” list for years now, so if they’re still lurking in your home, it’s time to say goodbye. These textured ceilings make a home feel older and can turn off potential buyers who prefer sleek finishes. Even worse, many buyers are concerned that textured ceilings like these could contain harmful asbestos.
Statement Granite Countertops
Back in the day, granite was the ultimate kitchen upgrade, but now, bold statement countertops with loud patterns now feel overwhelming and dated for many. Instead, most buyers prefer subtle quartz or concrete finishes, which offer a more contemporary and versatile look.
Oversized Whirlpool Tubs
You’d think that a well-sized whirlpool tub would still feel spacious and appealing in 2025. But in reality, a lot of people think that these bulky tubs just take up valuable space and will probably go unused.
Instead, many homeowners are trading them in for spacious walk-in showers with modern fixtures.
Shiny Brass Fixtures
Gone are the days when polished brass hardware was a symbol of nobility and sophistication. The consensus today is that it’s considered clunky and passé. If you have the resources, swapping brass for matte black, brushed nickel, or gold-tone finishes can instantly modernize your space.
Dark-Colored Walls
Nobody likes a room that feels overly dark and dreary, and dramatic wall colors can have exactly that effect. This can also make the room feel smaller and less inviting, which isn’t ideal for attracting buyers. Instead, lighter and neutral tones are preferred for their ability to make spaces feel open and airy.
Barn Doors in Every Room
For quite some time, barn doors were seen as a popular design feature in farmhouse-style homes, but they’re now being called overdone. Buyers appreciate functional and understated design elements, making traditional doors or pocket doors a better choice in many cases.
Faux Finishes on Walls
You may remember when faux finishes, like sponge painting or Venetian plaster, were thought of as creative. But sadly, today, they’re more likely to feel outdated or tacky. Smooth, clean walls with simple paint colors or wallpaper are a better way to achieve a polished look that appeals to modern tastes.
Built-In Media Niches
A few decades ago, those recessed wall spaces were perfect for large tube TVs. However, in 2025, they’re no longer practical, as sleek flat screens have taken over. These niches often look awkward and waste valuable wall space. It’s best to remove or repurpose them if you want to make living areas feel more current.
Too Much Shiplap
Shiplap had its moment in the spotlight thanks to the farmhouse trend, but now, too much of it can feel overly themed and off-putting. The good news is that you can still get away with using it sparingly as an accent rather than covering entire walls. This helps maintain a timeless look without overdoing the trend.
Open Shelving Overload
There’s no denying that open shelving can look stylish when curated carefully, but too much of it can feel impractical and cluttered. For the most part, prospective buyers prefer a balance of open and closed storage to keep their options open and spaces both functional and visually appealing.
Overly-Themed Rooms
As we mentioned earlier, people don’t seem to like spaces that feel overly thematic anymore. So rooms dedicated entirely to one theme, like “beach house” or “rustic cabin,” can quickly turn off buyers. Instead of committing to a single aesthetic, it’s better to focus on neutral, transitional décor that will appeal to the masses.
Artificial Landscaping Features
In 2025, people will continue to appreciate natural elements, which is one of the reasons why fake grass, plastic plants, and artificial rock formations in yards are starting to lose their appeal. You’re better off swapping these pieces out for natural landscaping with low-maintenance plants and eco-friendly features.