6 Front Yard Mistakes That Could Be Costing You Buyers

They say buyers decide in seconds whether a house feels right. That judgment starts at the curb. If your front yard looks cluttered, dated, or neglected, it can overshadow everything else your home offers. Here are six common mistakes that work against sellers and how to avoid them.

Too Much Clutter
Using your yard as a storage space—whether it’s for old furniture, unused equipment, or scattered toys—sends the wrong signal to buyers. A clean, open yard creates a sense of order and care. Before listing, remove anything that doesn’t belong and keep the space as tidy as possible.

Neglected Landscaping
Overgrown bushes, trees that block the house, or dead plants can make your home look uninviting. Buyers may assume the inside is just as neglected. Even simple steps—like trimming trees, adding fresh mulch, and planting seasonal flowers—can completely change the impression your home makes.

Unusual or Distracting Decor
Your style may be unique, but not every buyer will share it. Statues, oversized lawn ornaments, or bold yard art can distract from your home’s best features. If you’re preparing to sell, aim for a clean, classic look that appeals to the widest audience.

Out-of-Season Holiday Decorations
Holiday inflatables or string lights that linger well past the season can make buyers think the home hasn’t been maintained. Put decorations away promptly and keep the exterior looking fresh year-round.

Overpowering Additions
Details like large wind chimes or loud statement pieces in the yard can be a turnoff. Buyers want to focus on the home itself, not what’s hanging from the porch. Keep it simple and neutral to make your property more welcoming.

General Lack of Maintenance
Peeling paint, cracked steps, broken lighting, or faded patio furniture all add up to a negative first impression. The good news is that small fixes—like repainting the front door, repairing walkways, and washing outdoor furniture—go a long way.

What This Means for Sellers
Curb appeal isn’t about impressing your neighbors—it’s about helping buyers picture themselves in your home. A clean, well-kept yard suggests the house has been cared for inside too, which can make your property stand out in a competitive market.

Want to make sure your home’s exterior is helping, not hurting, your sale? I can walk you through where to focus your energy before listing.

Thinking about selling? Let’s make sure your home puts its best foot forward. Schedule a time at rob-hurt.com and we’ll build a smart plan together.