If you’re planning to list your house on the market, you have several tasks to complete to get it ready for sale. Improve curb appeal and you’ll be on the right track. Curb appeal affects the property’s value and the buyer’s first impression. If the exterior is attractive and inviting, a potential buyer is more likely to want to tour the home.
Make an Assessment Before Working to Improve Curb Appeal
Take a look at your property from the perspective of a possible buyer. What is your first impression when looking at the front yard and house? What would you consider to be the worst feature of the exterior? What is the best feature?
To get a good perspective, park on the street as if you’re the buyer approaching the home for the first time. Take notes as you walk to the front door. What needs to be improved?
Does Your Home Need a New Paint Job?
One of the things your assessment may have identified is that the exterior needs improvement. A fresh coat of paint goes a long way in making the home look newer.
Before painting, pressure wash the exterior of the house. Removing the dirt and grime that has accumulated over the years does wonders to improve curb appeal.
Freshen Your Front Door to Improve Curb Appeal
The front door is one of the first things the eye sees when looking at a house. Make your front door stand out with a new coat of paint. Select a vibrant color the complements the exterior of your home. New hardware on the front door is a quick and simple way to gain the attention of a potential buyer.
Fix the Gutters and Roof
Does the roof need to be cleaned? Does it look faded? Are shingles missing? Replace missing tiles or shingles. Remove any tree branches or leaves. Repair dented or damaged gutters to keep water flowing freely away from the house.
Improve Curb Appeal by Improving Landscaping
Make the yard look attractive and well cared for.
- Trim the hedges.
- Mow the lawn.
- Get rid of weeds.
- Prune the trees.
- Remove any trash.
Add borders to the flower beds. Create attractive pathways in the front and back yards. Plant colorful blooms. Edge the driveway. Put away clutter like children’s toys, sporting goods, and lawn equipment.
Plant Flowers Around the Exterior
Adding flowers is an easy way to beautify your home. Add hanging baskets to the front porch. Place potted plants on the deck. Flowers create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your home.
Curb Appeal at Night
Interested buyers may drive by the house in the evening after work. When improving curb appeal, consider how the home looks in the dark. Here are some tips:
- Add a decorative light fixture on the porch.
- Make sure that lights visible through the windows enhance the appearance.
- Use string lights to decorate the deck.
- Add solar stake lights along the path.
The above tips will improve curb appeal and attract buyers to your home. A few simple steps help your home gain attention, increase property value, and help the sale of your home move forward with ease.
Buyer’s Edge offers home inspection services, including pre-listing inspections, in Western North Carolina. If you’re selling your home, contact us to request an appointment.