Overhyped Home Design Trends Sellers Should Avoid in 2025

By Diane Cardano-Casacio

I'm an expert in real estate marketing and negotiation. With innovative strategies and sharp negotiation skills, I help home sellers sell quickly, creatively, and for top dollar while saving them money.

If your home has been sitting on the market with little interest, the issue may not be the price but the photos. Buyers scroll through listings in seconds, and if your home looks outdated, they skip it. First impressions matter, and today’s buyers expect homes to look fresh, clean, and move-in ready. Outdated finishes and old trends can hurt your chances of getting showings and offers. Here’s what you need to know to stay competitive in today’s market:

Outdated trends that turn buyers off. The farmhouse style is no longer in demand. Barn doors and distressed wood once felt cozy and charming, but now they feel dated. Unless your home is actually on a farm, skip this look because black hardware on white cabinets had its moment. Today’s buyers prefer warmer, softer finishes. Shiny gold or brass fixtures also feel out of place unless your home is in the luxury market. Instead, use brushed nickel or stainless steel because they are safer, more timeless options.

Open shelving in kitchens looks great in magazines but not in real life. Buyers want storage. They need places to stash mismatched cups, containers, and everyday clutter. Closed cabinets are a better choice.

Shaker cabinets aren’t out, but design preferences are shifting toward sleeker, more modern options. If you are remodeling, consider cleaner lines for a more updated look. In terms of painting, use warm tones, soft neutrals, and earthy colors. Buyers want homes that feel inviting and lived-in—not cold or sterile.

What do buyers want now? Buyers are drawn to natural materials, warm wood tones, and cozy textures. Granite countertops are making a comeback because they are durable, easy to maintain, and full of character. Quartz is still popular, but some buyers feel it looks too uniform. Avoid butcher block countertops because they stain easily, require constant care, and are not sanitary. If you like the style, consider using wood only on a kitchen island. Paint can completely transform a space. I recommend using Benjamin Moore’s Baby Fawn and Accessible Beige because they are warm, neutral tones that photograph well and appeal to a broad range of buyers.

Window treatments that work. Heavy window coverings block light and make rooms feel smaller. Plantation shutters, while elegant, often make spaces look dark in photos. Instead, go with Roman or roller shades. For added height and brightness, hang floor-to-ceiling curtains several inches above the window frame.

Simple staging tips. Declutter thoroughly and remove personal items, pack away extras, and pare down furniture. Then, use neutral, timeless pieces to make your home look trendy. Keep furniture away from windows and fireplaces to highlight natural light and focal points.

If your home isn’t attracting buyers, don’t assume it’s the market because it could be how your home looks online. Outdated styles push buyers away and modern updates pull them in. Focus on what matters most, like clean design, warm tones, and a move-in ready feel.

If you have any questions, feel free to call or text me at (215) 669-6285 or email me at dianeandteam@cardanohomeservice.com. I will help you ensure your home can attract the right buyers that will give you top dollar offers.