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It’s What’s On The Outside That Counts...

By
Real Estate Agent with Harvest Realty 678-617-0715

 

 In a recent article from Realtor Magazine, it was confirmed again that exterior upgrades and general "curb appeal" was the one of the most important factors in selling your home.

Home Sales

Simple updates and maintenance to landscaping is the least expensive, but all important place to start.  Those online photos will shine with a great looking lawn (trust me!).   Potential buyers look at online homes to decide where they'll stop, make sure your home makes the list.

Investing in your home's exterior cosmetics is great and can speed up the listing time, in addition many buyers are impressed by home energy upgrades.   These days, there tons great home improvements that are not only great long lasting options, but also fall into the "green" category.

Insulated Vinyl Siding can increase a home's insulation envelope by 20%.  Buyers will also like the fact that insulated siding drastically reduces the amount of outside noise.

Dual Paned Windows are standard in most newer homes these days, but if your home is older, you may want to consider upgrading.  Checking windows for the ENERGY STAR label is your best bet when choosing which windows to purchase.

Roofing options have grown over the years and there are plenty of attractive materials that are also energy friendly.  Metal Roofing is reflective and energy efficient as well as a great investment.  Metal Roofs are long lasting and stand up great to severe weather.  Clay and concrete tiles also reduce energy loss and many have an additional coatings to maximize energy conservation.  

Well made doors are built to last and worth the investment.  Investing in exterior doors is a great way to add value and charm to any home - making for a great front photo!

 

Barbara Altieri
Better Homes and Gardens RE Shore and Country Properties - Shelton, CT
REALTOR-Fairfield County CT Homes/Condos For Sale

You got it right, Jennifer.  I trust you on the great looking lawn!  It definitely makes the pictures more appealing and promotes the click-throughs and hopefully interest in seeing the house.  A shabby or dull exterior give the impression that the interior is the same (which it may not be) and is detrimental to the marketing.  Curb appeal rocks!

Jan 04, 2011 07:17 AM
Renee Marrs Caperton
Marrs & Associates - Corsicana, TX
Realtor - Corsicana Texas Real Estate

Great advice-especially this time of year.  A little color on the front door, neat lawn, rake leaves...it all enhances drive-up curb appeal.

Jan 04, 2011 01:40 PM
Peggy Chirico
Prudential CT Realty - Manchester, CT
REALTOR® 860-748-8900, Hartford & Tolland County Real Estate

Good advice, Jennifer.  I wish metal roofs were more accepted here in Connecticut because they make so much sense, but people tend to prefer their architectural-looking roofs.

Jan 09, 2011 03:32 AM
Kathy Sheehan
Bay Equity, LLC 770-634-4021 - Atlanta, GA
Senior Loan Officer

It's all about that first impression. 

Great suggestions!

Jan 13, 2011 12:50 AM