Creating Curb Appeal
One of the most important factors in selling your home for maximum dollars is what’s known as “curb appeal,” that impression the home makes on first-time viewers, visitors and neighbors.
Taking into consideration upcoming move expenses, most sellers need to allocate their cash for curb appeal upgrades carefully. Improvements should appeal to the widest range of buyers possible to maximize your listing dollars. And keep in mind the good news that giving your home’s exterior that extra WOW factor does not need to cost a lot of money! Below are the four essential areas you should pay attention to when improving your curb appeal:
Focus on Your Front Entrance
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to increase curb appeal is to focus on the front entrance. Give your front door a fresh coat of paint, in a pleasing color that coordinates with your home’s color. Try hanging a pretty wreath on the door, and maybe some flowering plants in colorful pots on either side of the entrance. A new welcome mat in a coordinating color will further enhance the effect you’re going for.
Freshen up Your Landscaping
Another “must do” on your curb appeal list is to make sure your landscaping is in tip-top shape. That means keeping your lawn freshly mowed. Trim the sides of your lawn, remove the weeds and make sure to seed any bare spots. Also, keep your flower beds neatly trimmed and weed-free, and trim any bushes. Mulch can do wonders for a yard! If you live in a condo, make sure your outdoor areas are inviting and include containers with fresh flowers.
Set the Stage for Relaxation
Even in winter, highlight your exterior living spaces. Make a front porch or firepit cozy and inviting with some all-weather chairs or benches. Add throw pillows and small blankets in coordinating colors. For a finishing touch, add some pretty lighting fixtures—hurricane lanterns, battery-powered candles, fairy lights—to give your potential buyers visions of the relaxing evenings they could be enjoying when your home is their home!
Not as Glamorous but Just as Necessary
Make sure your driveway and walkways are clear and clean. Touch up any spots on your house that need a little extra paint or caulking. Wash the decks. Pressure-wash if necessary, to remove any mossy build-up. Remove any moss or dirt from the siding. Wash all the windows and check all the screens for holes.