How Neighbours Can Negatively Impact Your Home Sale in the UK

When it comes to selling your home, many factors can influence the final sale price, from the state of the property market to the condition of your home. However, one often overlooked factor is the impact of your neighbours. The surrounding properties and the behaviour of those living next to you can significantly affect potential buyers’ perceptions and, consequently, the value of your home.

ABC Finance expert Gary Hemming explains how neighbours can negatively impact your home sale in the UK and by how much they can potentially devalue your property.

Poor Home Maintenance

Unkempt Yards and Exterior Damage:

One of the most visible ways neighbours can affect your home sale is through poor maintenance of their properties. Overgrown lawns, untrimmed bushes, peeling paint, and broken windows create a negative first impression. Potential buyers may worry about the overall upkeep of the neighbourhood, leading them to reconsider or offer a lower price for your home.

Impact on Value

Homes adjacent to poorly maintained properties can see a decrease in value by 5-10%. For instance, if your home is valued at £300,000, the presence of a poorly maintained neighbouring property could reduce your home’s value by £15,000 to £30,000.

Noise Levels

Loud Neighbours

Excessive noise from neighbours, whether from loud music, frequent parties, or noisy pets, can be a significant deterrent for potential buyers. Noise pollution is a common complaint and can seriously impact the perceived tranquillity and livability of a home.

Impact on Value

Persistent noise issues can reduce property values by 5-10%. If your property is worth £300,000, you could see a reduction of £15,000 to £30,000 due to noise disturbances.

Anti-Social Behaviour

Disruptive Behaviour

Neighbours who engage in antisocial behaviour, such as frequent arguments, illegal activities, or vandalism, can significantly tarnish the appeal of your neighbourhood. Buyers are likely to be deterred by the prospect of living next to problematic neighbours.

Impact on Value

The presence of anti-social neighbours can lead to a reduction in property value by up to 20%. For a £300,000 home, this means a potential devaluation of up to £60,000.

Unpleasant Odours

Offensive Smells

Unpleasant smells from neighbouring properties, whether due to improper waste disposal, pets, or other sources, can be off-putting to buyers. Odours are not only uncomfortable but can also indicate poor hygiene or neglect.

Impact on Value

Offensive odours can reduce property values by approximately 5%. In monetary terms, this could mean a reduction of £15,000 for a home valued at £300,000.

Property Usage and Legal Issues

Rental Properties and Legal Disputes

If neighbouring homes are used as rental properties, particularly if they are not well-managed, this can lead to a transient and potentially disruptive population. Additionally, ongoing legal disputes between neighbours can be a red flag for potential buyers.

Impact on Value

These factors can reduce property values by up to 10%. For a £300,000 home, this equates to a potential loss of £30,000.

Gary Hemming from ABC Finance says:

While you cannot control your neighbours, being aware of how they can impact your home sale is crucial. Addressing these issues where possible, such as discussing maintenance concerns with neighbours or working to resolve disputes amicably, can help mitigate their negative effects. Ultimately, ensuring that your home is as appealing as possible and highlighting the positives of the neighbourhood will be key to achieving the best possible sale price