Why First Impressions Can Make or Break Your Home Sale

When it comes to buying a home in Canada, many deals are lost before a potential buyer even steps inside.

A recent Leger survey commissioned by Re/Max Canada revealed that over half of Canadians (51%) would walk away from a home if the neighbouring properties were in poor condition — with 18% calling it their top dealbreaker.

It’s not just the house for sale that matters. The surrounding properties and streetscape set the stage for a buyer’s first impression. And in real estate, first impressions aren’t just important — they’re everything.

The Neighbour Effect: Why Surroundings Matter

As Don Kottick, president of Re/Max Canada, puts it:

“While the home is the ultimate goal for buyers, the neighbouring properties and surrounding community often say a lot about what life might be like there for you, as a resident.”

Not all buyers can look past a peeling fence, unkempt lawn, or cluttered driveway next door. For many, it’s a red flag about the neighbourhood’s upkeep — and it’s enough to send them searching elsewhere.

The survey found lack of curb appeal to be nearly as detrimental, with 41% of respondents citing it as a dealbreaker.

Other Common Dealbreakers for Buyers

While curb appeal and neighbourhood aesthetics lead the list, they aren’t the only factors pushing buyers away. The survey also identified:

     - Misleading photos: 40% were turned off by rooms smaller than they appeared online.
     - Too much competition: 36% disliked bidding wars.
     - Proximity to nightlife or busy retail: 28% said “too close” is a turnoff.
     - Messy showings: 27% walked away from cluttered or untidy homes.
     - Difficult agents: 18% were deterred by unhelpful real estate representatives.
     - Sellers present during showings: 11% found it uncomfortable.

With more inventory available in many markets, buyers today have the luxury of being selective — and they’re using it.

What Sellers Can Do to Stand Out

In a shifting market, sellers need to focus on every detail — even those beyond their property line. While you can’t control your neighbours, you can minimize their impact and maximize your own home’s appeal:

     - Perfect your curb appeal – Fresh landscaping, clean walkways, and a tidy driveway go a long way.
     - Add fresh paint – A quick coat on doors, trim, or siding can make the home look cared for.
     - Use outdoor lighting – Evening showings benefit from a well-lit, inviting exterior.
     - Block unsightly views – Plant hedges or install screens for privacy and visual appeal.
     - Lend a hand to neighbours – In some cases, mowing or watering their lawn before a showing can improve the street’s overall                  look.

The Bottom Line

In today’s market, buyers aren’t just buying a home — they’re buying into a neighbourhood. As a seller, you only get one shot at a first impression, so it’s worth making it count.

That means paying attention to every detail, from your own front porch to the property across the street. When you combine a well-prepared home with a thoughtful selling strategy, you give buyers every reason to walk in… and stay.