Most homebuyers decide whether or not to look inside a house based on its curb appeal…. the view they see when they drive by or arrive for a showing. You can help make sure they come inside your home by spending some time to freshen up its exterior appearance. In today’s market, it is especially important to have a well-maintained home to obtain top dollar.
The first thing you should do is detach yourself from your home or have friends help you look at your home objectively. The next time you come home, stop across the street or far enough down the driveway to get a good view of the house and its surroundings. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What is your first impression of the house and yard?
- What are the best exterior features of the house? How can you enhance them?
- What are the worst exterior features of the house or lot? How can you minimize or improve them?
- Take photos of the home’s exterior. Sometimes, it is easier to see problems in grayscale than color.
Curb Appeal Starters
- Lighting: String low voltage lighting along the driveway and sidewalks. Add a decorative light to front porch.
- Stow away unnecessary garden implements and tools.
- Clean the windows and gutters.
- Pressure wash the home and decks.
- Trim, weed and enhance the landscaping.
If you brainstorm, you’ll find a solution to most curb appeal issues… one that stays within your budget. Remember that you are doing this work to increase the chances that a buyers will make an offer within the time you’d like to sell your home.
