Of the buyers surveyed many were put off by dead people’s ashes in the house, stuffed animals, animal skulls in the garden and shrunken heads or china dolls.
Also mentioned were bottled specimens on shelves in a cellar, a vintage barber’s shop chair in the bedroom, a skeleton hung outside a bedroom window and animals such as snakes and tarantulas.
Robin King, Director at Move with Us, said: "As the dark nights draw in and the winter weather arrives, potential homebuyers might be put off properties they view during dark winter nights or in extreme weather conditions.
“This feeling can be heightened if there are spooky items in the house and they fail to get that warm and cosy feeling.
“But viewers should remain open minded and try not be put off by minor cosmetic details that could stand between them and their dream home.
“If they find the right property, they should remember that by the time they get their belongings in and change the decor to suit their individual taste it will quickly feel like home.”
People are also often superstitious about moving on Friday the 13th and to the house number ‘13’.
Other concerns include not wanting to live next to a graveyard, black cats being seen during viewings or questions about ghosts in the property.
King added: “Sellers should bear in mind that extreme and creepy decorating choices can scare potential buyers off.
“It’s much easier to sell a property when it’s de-personalised and neutral so try to hide any more ‘unusual’ objects away.
“At this time of year, switching the fire on and making sure that the property is warm and welcoming can really sell the property, show it at its best and help you to achieve the best price.
“Creating a blank canvas will help viewers to imagine themselves living in the house and make the sale easier.”
