An estate agent has suggested that decorating a home in neutrals in order to appeal to buyers is unnecessary.

In recent years, the rise of home makeover shows such as Property Ladder has encouraged many sellers to make the most of their home by choosing a plain colour palette to help buyers envisage their own belongings in the space.

However, Andrew Beadnall told the Yorkshire Post newspaper that people should not feel they have to follow the pack, commenting: "In the shows where people are told to keep it simple and go for neutrals, what gets forgotten is that these houses are homes, and it''s perfectly right to stamp your character on your home."

However, he suggested that sellers should bear in mind that while a property does not have to "be painted beige to sell", an inappropriate colour choice may not show a home off to its full potential.

"A north-facing dining room I saw recently in a beautiful house had been painted a revolting mauve… my suggestion was that deep purple would work much better," he explained.

Experts often recommend that sellers clear the clutter from their home and ensure that the function of each room is clearly defined.