Curb appeal is the primary influence on a potential homebuyer’s first in-person impression. They may already know they like the neighborhood, that the house has the right number of bedrooms, and fits their budget, but if peeling paint or a messy yard are the first things they notice, they will immediately begin to wonder what else might be wrong, and eliminate your property from their search prematurely. In other words, the beautiful hardwood floors you refinished, or the high-end light fixtures installed throughout the home don’t matter if your customer never makes it through the front door.
Here are a few essential details not to be overlooked if you want to maximize your property’s curb appeal.
1. A new coat of paint, a seasonal wreath, and a new mat at the front door create a welcoming entry point, and signal hospitality on the behalf of the seller. Try painting the exterior of your front door an eye catching accent color.
2. Upgrade your outdoor lighting. Potential buyers may be driving by in the evening on their way home from work, or after dark to check out the neighborhood activity. Lit walkways, or spotlights accenting distinct features and eliminating shadowy corners can make your home the standout in a neighborhood of similar boxes.
3. Keep a spotless yard. Clean lines between grass and mulch areas – even in the winter- give a home polish. Clean up oil stains in driveways and keep toys, trash and debris off of the front lawn. Make sure the landscaping is trimmed neat and tidy. You do not have to go nuts landscaping the yard, but whatever is there should be well maintained.
4. Pay attention to seemingly minor “deal-breaker” details. While an effective window latch may not be a selling point – or even noticed by a potential buyer – a broken or not properly sealed window can be a deal breaker.
5, Replace your mailbox. An unsightly mailbox on, or in front of, even the most lovingly rehabbed home is an unnecessary blemish. You want potential buyers to sense that every detail has been attended to.
6. Remember, a show stopping renovation with all the bells and whistles is a waste of time and resources if lack of curb appeal deters motivated buyers. Make sure your investment is as appetizing to your target market as possible.
-Michael Moreno
Recent Comments