8 HGTV decorating tips that could lower your home’s value
We all love the quick fixes and bright ideas HGTV dishes out—pendant lights, statement walls, smart gadgets. But some of those trends can backfire when it comes to resale or everyday livability. Buyers and design experts have raised red flags on choices that look fresh in a demo but feel dated or impractical in real life.
I gathered eight decorating moves you might want to rethink before they cost you more than style points. I’ve got real quotes from pros, solid examples, and a clear look at what to skip if you’re thinking long-term.
Color Drenching in Bold Palettes
Going all in with one bold color might have wowed viewers during a makeover reveal, but in reality it risks alienating buyers. Rooms drenched in deep or loud tones can feel overwhelming and make it hard for people to picture their own belongings in the space. Neutral walls give potential buyers breathing room and flexibility. Designers say that sticking with classic, muted tones is safer and more inviting, especially when selling—or even just living day to day.
Fluted Finishes Everywhere
Fluted panels and reeded textures have been splashed across walls, cabinets, and trim—even though designers are starting to call them mass-produced and overdone. While they might look designer-y in a showroom setting, overuse can date your place fast. Buyers are looking for authenticity—and a trend-heavy finish can feel fussy rather than refined. Better to go with clean, timeless materials that emphasize the building’s character—not the current hype.
Over-the-Top Smart Upgrades
It might sound cool to have app-controlled faucets, color-changing lights, or voice-activated blinds. But tech moves fast, and pricey gadgets can be obsolete or glitchy come resale time. Buyers may balk at maintenance or learning curves, and a system that seems forward-looking today can feel outdated tomorrow. When it comes to home value, classic function usually wins over flashy features.
Statement Tile That Sticks Out
I know—eyecatching tile looks great on screen. But designers warn that bold patterns and colors limit your room’s versatility and risk making it feel dated quickly. When buyers see a backsplash or bathroom with statement tile, they may cringe instead of feeling impressed. Going with classic, low-contrast styles gives your space staying power and broader appeal.
Excessive Open Shelving
Open shelving can feel airy, but between dust, grease, and chaotic dish arrangements, it often becomes more pain than pantry. Real estate experts say when shelving takes over storage space, practicality drops and the kitchen’s perceived value dips. Many sellers regret removing cabinet doors—those hidden shelves do more work (and look tidier) than open, styled displays ever could.
Accent Walls with Trim or Paneling
Accent walls got a boost early this decade, but designers now warn that decorative trim or molding can feel dated or forced. What started as creative detailing can look like an installation waiting to be undone. Some buyers see it and already calculate the cost of removal or refinishing. Cleanly painted walls send a clearer message: respectful of style, not reliant on showy extras.
Fuzzy Accents That Shed
HGTV loves cozy texture, but fuzzy rugs or shag accents have caught designer pushback for literally shedding everywhere. Jasmine Roth calls them a headache—you spend more time vacuuming fibers than enjoying the softness. And shredded décor doesn’t scream designer, it screams high-maintenance—and that hurts resale appeal fast.
Excess Clutter and Uncoordinated Decor
HGTV makes styling look easy. But in real spaces, too much wall décor, mismatched frames, or sentimental chaos can feel cluttered and careless. Designers and real estate pros alike flag overcrowded walls, tacky word art, and dated accessories as off-putting during showings. Buyers want to imagine their story—not shuffle through yours. A curated, purposeful look wins every time.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
