When touring homes, it’s easy to get distracted by surface-level flaws or personal design choices—but savvy buyers know how to look past the noise and focus on what really matters.

Here are 5 things you should ignore on a home tour so you can see the full potential of your future dream home.

1. Paint Colors and Wallpaper

A bold red dining room or outdated floral wallpaper might not be your style—but don’t let that stop you. Paint is one of the cheapest and easiest things to change in a home.

Why You Should Ignore It:

• Paint and wallpaper are cosmetic fixes

• Repainting a room takes little time and budget

• Focus on the structure and layout, not the palette

You’re buying the space, not the color choices.

2. Furniture and Decor

Sellers stage homes to show how a space could be used—but their taste might not align with yours. Don’t let furniture placement or dated decor cloud your judgment.

What Really Matters:

• Room size and flow

• Natural light

• Ceiling height and storage options

Try to visualize the home with your own style and belongings.

3. Clutter or Messiness

Some homes are still occupied, and not everyone keeps their space magazine-ready. Messy rooms or cluttered counters can make a place feel cramped—but don’t let it distract you.

Tip:

• Look past the mess to evaluate the actual square footage

• Focus on layout, condition, and renovation potential

You’re not buying someone else’s lifestyle—you’re buying the bones of the home.

4. Outdated Fixtures and Finishes

Old light fixtures, dated cabinetry, or retro tiles can feel off-putting—but these are usually affordable to update after purchase.

Instead of Dismissing:

• Factor in renovation costs

• Consider how a few small updates could modernize the space

Think of outdated features as an opportunity to personalize the home to your taste.

5. Minor Repairs or Wear and Tear

Scuffed floors, squeaky doors, or chipped paint? These are small imperfections that are common in any resale home—and they shouldn’t scare you off.

Focus On:

• Structural integrity (roof, foundation, windows)

• Major systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)

• Location and neighborhood value

Always differentiate between cosmetic flaws and red flags that require major investment.

When touring a home, it’s essential to separate the superficial flaws from the critical features that matter long-term—like location, layout, and structure.

By ignoring these 5 minor distractions, you’ll be more likely to spot hidden gems and get a better deal in a competitive market.

Thinking about buying a home?
Let’s tour some great options together—and I’ll help you focus on what really counts.

Matt Witte strives to be the best realtor in Andover MA.

Any questions about real estate, reach out to Matt Witte Andover Realtor MA