There are moments in real estate that stick with you. Walking into a historic home, appreciating the original hardwoods, the ornate trim, the craftsmanship, and then locking eyes (sort of) with Michelangelo’s David, right there on the light switch.
Let’s just say the placement of the switch was… strategic. And every time you reached to flip the light? You were also, well… flipping David’s most prized feature.
Look, I’m all for personality in a home. I love it when people embrace their quirks. After all, it’s your space. I have no doubt this was a gag gift that gave someone a great laugh. But here’s the catch: what you live with comfortably might make buyers feel a little… exposed.
This is why I gently remind my sellers: living in your home isn’t the same thing as marketing your home.
When buyers tour your house, they’re trying to imagine their lives there. What shouldn’t they be imagining? Whether the master of Renaissance sculpture might blush over your choice of switch covers.
So what’s the fix?
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Dial it back (but not to boring). Remove anything too cheeky, too personal, or too suggestive even if it’s art history.
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Aim for “inviting” not “confusing.” Buyers should notice your home’s charm, not get sidetracked by unexpected anatomy lessons in the foyer.
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Think about touchpoints literally. Anything buyers have to physically interact with (like light switches) should feel clean, neutral, and… non-awkward.
At the end of the day, selling a house is about helping buyers fall for your space, not making them giggle nervously in the hallway.
So yes, keep David safe. But maybe let him sit this one out until after closing.
Need help prepping your home (and your switchplates) for sale? Call me. I’ll help you find where tasteful ends and too much begins.