When most people think about wealth, they picture investments, income, and savings accounts. But there’s a hidden factor that can cost you tens—or even hundreds—of thousands: the condition of your home and the environment you live in every day.
A Harvard Business Review study found that homes that are cluttered or poorly maintained sell for 5–15% less. On a million-dollar property, that’s a staggering $50,000–$150,000 gone. Deferred maintenance, like ignoring a curling roof shingle or delaying a vent upgrade, may feel like “saving money today,” but it often accelerates costly repairs tomorrow.
But the price isn’t just financial. A cluttered environment clutters the mind. When your surroundings are messy, you’re more likely to delay decisions, make hasty choices, or overlook important details. That’s why one buyer we worked with couldn’t bring themselves to purchase a home they actually loved—because the clutter overwhelmed their vision. The sellers ended up losing $40,000 simply because the space wasn’t presented well.
Your personal vitality also matters. Studies show that even mild sleep deprivation makes you 20–30% more likely to make a risky decision. In the early days of our real estate careers, we saw clients pressured into midnight negotiations they later regretted. Today, we guide our clients differently—ensuring they make major choices rested, alert, and confident.
Finally, boundaries at home set the stage for peace, clarity, and better decision-making. Research from the University of Michigan shows that homes without clear space boundaries experience 60% more conflict and 35% lower satisfaction with decisions. Whether it’s setting a tech-free bedroom, naming a rejuvenation suite, or adopting playful rules like “last one out makes the bed,” boundaries protect your energy and your wealth.
At the Dekker Team, we believe building wealth wisely starts at home. Maintenance preserves value. Clutter-free spaces sharpen the mind. Clear boundaries protect relationships and decisions. Together, they shape both your financial outcomes and your quality of life.
👉 Curious how your environment could be costing—or growing—your wealth? Join us at the next Building Wealth Wisely Workshop on October 8th. Reserve your spot at dekkerteam.com.
Because when your home environment supports you, you don’t just make smarter choices—you build a stronger future.