When it comes time to sell your home, there is more to getting it ready than sprucing up the interior. In order to attract potential buyers, the exterior and landscaping need to be front and center. After all, this is the first impression one has of your property. This is what is referred to as curb appeal.
What Exactly in Curb Appeal?
The term “curb appeal” refers to the attractive and inviting qualities of your home and property as viewed from the curb or street. It often allows a potential buyer to see what he or she can expect once inside the house. A house with great curb appeal generally indicates that the homeowner or seller has thoughtfully maintained the interior as well as the exterior. There are several things you can do to improve curb appeal to maximize your return on investment.
Add Plantings Around Your Property
A property can be greatly enhanced by planting greenery and flowers. Bushes along the yard perimeter will soften boundary edges and offer privacy from neighbors. Greenery also adds color and helps to keep the immediate environment cleaner. Avoid planting too close to the home to block the view or to reduce air circulation.
A better idea for plantings near the house would be flower beds. These are particularly attractive when in bloom in warmer weather. Mix and match colors. Be sure to keep them watered and pruned.
Maintain Your Yard
It is very important that you maintain your property, no matter the size. Keeping grass lawns mowed and gardens free of weeds shows that you care. In cooler weather, be sure to have your yard raked and cleared of dead branches.
If you have a very small yard without a lawn, it is recommended that you routinely sweep or hose debris off of your hardscapes, such as patios, decks, and driveways. Also, clean out your gutters.
Power-Wash, Make Repairs, and Paint
Freshening up the house exterior brings brightness and a welcoming vibe to your property. Start by making necessary repairs to the siding and trim. Repair leaking gutters. If the siding is in good condition, have it power-washed to remove any dirt and mold growth. If needed, paint your siding and trim to clean it up. Painting your front door a fun color can be eye-popping.
Replace Windows
Replacement windows will not only add a clean look on the exterior, it will completely transform the interior space with more light and better climate control. New windows can greatly increase the value of your home. If this project isn’t within your budget or isn’t necessary, have the glass of the windows cleaned inside and out.
Update and Add Lighting
Many potential buyers will want to see what the neighborhood and the property are like when it is dark outside. They will want to feel safe and secure. One of the best ways to offer security is to strategically light both the property and the house. Ground-level walkway lighting is subtle and practical. New LED entrance, porch, and garage lights offer both safety and highlighting of the best features of the structures.
Benefits of Curb Appeal
The extra effort that you put into the appearance of the exterior of your house and property will have nothing less than positive benefits for the sale of your home. A neat yard and well-kept house exterior make a good first impression on potential buyers. It will also ensure that the place stands out from the market competition. The best benefit of curb appeal is that it increases the value of your property.