Top 20 property blunders

1. Not dealing with a structural disaster
Subsidence can often be fixed but if nothing is done buyers will flee.

2. Bad extensions
Ugly lean-to and breeze block protrusions often end up being demolished.

3: Smoking
Smell and stains can put off buyers.

4. Outdoor swimming pools
Too big, £600 a year to maintain, families with children will worry about safety.

5. X-rated additions
From "humorous" gnomes to stone cladding - costing up to £2,000 to be removed.

6. Textured finish
The ceiling swirls are difficult to remove - and there's a fear of what lies beneath.

7. UPVC windows
Alright in moderation for modern homes, a big mistake in period properties.

8. Animals
One in 10 people won't see the home due to allergies. the rest will worry about smells.

9. Poor DIY
Poor paint jobs, badly fitted kitchens, shoddy wiring and plumbing must be replaced.

10. Avocado bathroom suite
Simply age the bathroom - many stockists now only supply white.

11. Nightmare neighbours
Buyers take fright at signs such as unkempt gardens and abandoned cars.

12. Toilet in the wrong place
Unattractive and unhygienic if too near kitchen.

13. Pine
Sellers end up paying for removal of the Seventies-style orangey wood.

14. Gigantic sofa
Buyers can't visualise space. Should be no longer than 5ft in a 12ftx10ft room.

15. Overgrown garden
Cost of hiring gardeners will be taken off asking price.
Loss in value: £3,500

16. Fake period features
Cheap beams, ill-suited fireplaces and ornate chandeliers scream "naff".

17. Floral/flock patterns
Often hideous and make rooms seem smaller.

18. Laminate flooring
Never in a period home, always use sparingly.

19. Themed rooms
Moroccan bedrooms, Caesar's Palace lounges - they'll all be ripped out.

20. Carpet in the bathroom
If you like bugs, dead skin, hair and nasty stains.