This interiors trend could put buyers off, according to a realtor

Bold tiles can deter buyers, warns Juliette Hohnen

white subway tiles in kitchen with fresh herbs and chopping board
(Image credit: Porcelain Superstore)

Spring is a busy time in the world of real estate – the holidays are out of the way and many parents are looking to move to a different school district for the year ahead. Selling your home this season or have plans to in the future?

Your choice of bathroom or kitchen tile could in fact sway it if you're trying to sell your house faster. Juliette Hohnen of Douglas Elliman is one of Hollywood's top real estate agents and was named by the Wall Street Journal as one of the top 250 realtors in the country.

When we spoke to Juliette about potential 'turn-offs' she commented that bold tiles should be avoided if you want to shift your house quickly.

white tiles in kitchen with open shelves and gold tap

Opting for whites and neutrals is the way to go

(Image credit: Ca' Pietra)

The bold tile trend could put buyers off

'I’ve seen houses with loud wall or tile colors sell for less than those with clean white walls,' says Juliette Hohnen from Douglas Elliman. When thinking about kitchen or bathroom tile ideas in anything other than your 'forever home', it pays to opt for something inoffensive.

Fresh white tiles are like a blank canvas for buyers, helping them to imagine themselves living in your home. As much as we may love bold patterned tiles for making a statement, when appealing to the highest number of people, it's better to go for something more subtle. 

Blank walls will also help buyers imagine how their belongings would look in your home, making them more likely to make an offer.

white tiles in kitchen

(Image credit: Original Style)

It's definitely wise to keep things white or a neutral. If you want to add some visual interest and personality, you could DIY your tiles with vinyl cut-out shapes. These can easily be removed before you have viewings. 

It's definitely worth updating old tiles rather than leaving them be, though. Juliette Hohnen says that dated bathrooms and kitchens will put buyers off unless they're looking for a project or fixer-upper specifically. 

'Almost no one likes dark rooms,' she adds. White is sounding more and more appealing.

white tiles in bathroom with terracotta octagonal tiles on the floor

(Image credit: Hyperion Tiles)

Painting tiles white or cream could be a quick fix to wipe the slate clean, read our guide to learn how to get a professional finish.

Millie joined Real Homes in early 2021 as a homes news writer. When she isn't writing about trends, makeovers and houseplant care, she spends her free time making tweaks to her rented flat in North London. Her next project is a very basic armchair reupholstering job to help create a cosy reading nook in her living room. She loves browsing antique centres, tending to her small front garden, and is never without some fresh flowers at home.


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