Preparing to Sell a Home: Tips & Tricks to Boost Curb Appeal

So, you’re ready to sell your home? Before you do, you should consider taking a few steps to boost your curb appeal. By doing so, your home could potentially sell faster and for more money.

What is curb appeal and why is it important?

Curb appeal refers to the visual appeal of your home and its surroundings when viewed from the street. Think flower baskets and landscaping, exterior lighting, and home finishings like siding and gutters. These things are often overlooked by sellers that assume that buyers are most interested in what the inside of the home looks like. While that may hold some degree of truth, curb appeal is important because it can often impact the perceived value, condition, and desirability of the home to buyers. Oftentimes, your home’s curb appeal is a potential buyer’s first impression of your home – and as we all know, first impressions are important.

What are the core aspects of curb appeal?

Visual appeal:

• Landscaping: Green, well-manicured lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs. Flower beds, rock, mulch, and decorations can help enhance the look of your property.

• Exterior Cleanliness: It’s important to ensure your siding, windows, gutters, and walkways are clean and clear of debris. Power Washing these services can make a big difference.

• Paint and Finish: A well-maintained facade is important. Consider a fresh coat of paint or stain on decks, doors, and trim.

Functional Elements:

• Roof and gutters: Ensure your roof and gutters are clean, intact, and clear of debris.

• Driveways and Walkways: Given the significant costs associated with the repair or replacement of driveways and walkways, it’s important they are clean, crack-free, and overall in good condition before you sell your home.

• Lighting: Having a well-lit exterior is important for both aesthetic and safety purposes and is often well-received by buyers.

Decorative Touches:

• Front Door: A stylish, well-painted front door can serve as a focal point and is often the last thing potential buyers see before entering your home. In fact, according to a recent study, front door color can affect how long it takes a home to sell and the price it sells for. Adding a decorative wreath or doormat can help as well.

• Hardware: Often overlooked, simple things like hardware, door handles, house numbers, and even mailboxes can impact your home’s curb appeal.

• Outdoor furniture and Decor: Buyers love to see livable, inviting spaces. A well-decorated and nicely furnished deck or patio offers the perfect spot for hosting backyard barbecues or enjoying a morning cup of coffee.

Maintenance and Repairs:

• Repairs: Any visible damage or signs of wear and tear should be addressed before selling your home. Damaged siding and peeling paint can set the wrong impression with buyers and impact the offers or lack thereof that you receive.

• Maintenance: Make sure you’re up-to-date on regular maintenance tasks like mowing, edging, trimming, and cleaning gutters. Like when you get a fresh haircut, these things can help keep your property looking its best.

Your home’s curb appeal can impact potential buyers’ first impressions, impacting the perceived value of both your home and the neighborhood in which it resides. Even if you’re not selling, having an attractive home exterior can provide a sense of personal satisfaction and pride. Even on a tight budget or short time frame, simple things like landscaping or painting your front door can help provide potential buyers with a positive, lasting impression of your home.