Many people selling their homes already know to make improvements to their home so that it will sell better. Here, though, are ten “improvements” that actually turn buyers off. 1. Showing off a garage that has been turned into a different type of room may seem like a benefit, but it has turned away more buyers than not. Most people want to use their garage for safe, covered parking. And garages also act as necessary spaces for storage that you may be depriving your potential buyers of. 2. A bedroom that has also been turned into another-function room can be a turn-off for potential buyers. The number of bedrooms in a house is one of the first things buyers look for, second only to the location of the home. If you converted your bedroom with permanent changes like built-in bookcases, you’re less likely to sell the home. 3. Today, hardwood floors are in trend. Covering up hardwood floors with carpet is a no-no for potential buyers. For a cleaner look with a more design-laced edge, showcase those hardwood floors, don’t hide them. 4. Fancy fixtures like chandeliers may look nice with your furnishings, but for buyers who are looking for something more simple, this can be a definite turn-off. Replace your fancy fixings with something more neutral when you’re looking to sell. 5. Theme-ing your kids’ rooms may be great for your family, but it narrows down the use of a room for a buyer. It will require more work for them to change into something that better fits their home vision. The more of an amusement park a room looks like, the harder it will be for your buyer to see past, and the more turned away they will be. 6. Looking to the backyard, putting in accessories like an above-ground pool may seem like a cool idea, but think again. Potential buyers could see this addition as tacky and it can also damage the grass. Look carefully at the things you have placed around the outside of the house, because they will form your potential buyers’ first impressions. 7. Speaking of pools, even in-ground pools can prove to be difficult for potential buyers. They come with high maintenance needs and can also act as liabilities. Especially if you live in an area where pools aren’t common, double think your building choice. 8. Improvements that may be necessary in the home include appliance updates in the kitchen. As the heart of the home, a kitchen needs to be clean and simple. Rusting appliances can turn buyers away quickly. Fresh countertops and steel appliances make a home more welcoming and approachable. 9. Remember that old home-selling stereotype: making cookies to make the home smell more appealing? It’s actually a helpful tip. Homes that sport unappealing smells like cigarette smoke are much less likely to be bought. Freshen up your home as best as you can; and removing smoke smells can be a big job, so be prepared to take certain steps. 10. Not everyone loves pets, nor will they necessarily be moving with any. As best as you can, try to keep pet toys and accessories out of sight and out of mind, to help persuade your potential buyers to purchase your home.  Working with your local real estate agent ahead of time can help you avoid these 10 turn-offs for selling your home.