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Smokers are cutting down the proportion of people that would buy their homes by nearly a third according to a new survey. In addition they are likely to receive 10% less for the property from almost 60% of the remaining viewers.
The survey, carried out for the Woolwich by an ICM poll, also investigated what other turn-off items we don’t like when viewing potential new homes.
The study found that the single biggest turn-off for house buyers is nicotine-stained paintwork and the smell of stale cigarette smoke (28 per cent would find this a turn-off), other turn-offs included swirly seventies style carpets and avocado bathroom suites.
The findings of the research reveal that homebuyers would consider offering a lower asking price for a nicotine stained interior with six out of 10 respondents (59 per cent) stating they would offer anything up to 10 per cent less than the asking price. On an average home in the UK, smokers could forfeit around £16,000 off the asking price if they don’t carry out some basic DIY before selling.
Commenting on the research, Woolwich head of mortgages Andy Gray said: “The total amount that sellers in the UK may be losing out on is as much as £3 billion, money which could be gained if the seller carried out some basic DIY, to ensure the shrewd homebuyer isn’t turned off by their home.”
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Biggest turn-offs for house buyers |
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1. |
Nicotine-stained décor and stale smoke smells |
28% |
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2. |
Animal smells and fur on furnishings |
20% |
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3. |
Stone cladding |
11% |
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4. |
Dirty fridge or oven |
10% |
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5. |
Seventies-style Artex ceiling or ceiling tiles |
7% |
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6. |
Avocado bathroom suite |
5% |
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7. |
Swirly Seventies-style carpets |
4% |
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8.= |
Garden gnome or other ugly garden features |
3% |
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8.= |
Dated or unstylish fireplace |
3% |
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10. |
Chintzy décor |
2% |
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