Experts don't emphasize "curb appeal" for no reason. When it comes to purchasing an Austin home, buyers will judge a book by its cover. That's why you shouldn't only concentrate on the interior of your Austin home when you want to sell it. The following are some helpful tips to creating beautiful cover art for your home's story.
Take a Step Back - The very first thing you need to do is to take a moment, walk across the street, turn around and take an honest look at the front of your home. If you were a potential buyer, would you stop to see what's behind the front door or would you continue on to another, more inviting home down the street? Take note of the things that stand out the most (shrubbery, paint, stains, toys, etc). If your house just needs a bit of a tidying up, that just makes it easier. But, it may take a little more than that.
Landscaping - You're busy with your daily life as well as the additional stresses of trying to sell your home. So, sometimes, the lawn gets neglected. Keep it watered properly (but not over-watered) and mowed. When mowing, don't cut the lawn too short or you could hurt it and hinder future growth. Pull up any weeds, trim the bushes and get rid of dead plants. If you have empty flower boxes you always intended to plant flowers in, do it. Otherwise, get rid of them.
Litter - The kids' bikes and outdoor toys need to be put on the side of the home, in the garage or out back in the shed. With trash cans, the "out of sight. out of mind" rule is a good one to follow. Make sure to keep the trash cans away from any windows or doorways, though, so the smell won't waft inside when someone is considering your Austin home for their own.
Entryway - Placing a couple of potted plants, a hanging plant or two and/or your flower boxes (with newly planted flowers) in the front entryway welcomes visitors. A new welcome mat is an inexpensive way to say "come on in" as well. Freshen up the paint on your exterior light fixture or replace it altogether if it's worn out. The same goes for the mailbox, if it is located here.
Driveway and Sidewalks - Stains are unsightly and can put off a potential buyer as well. Your local hardware or home and garden center may have something to get rid of those stubborn oil and rust stains. If the stains are particularly bad, you may want to resurface the driveway completely. This may sound radical, but the money you put into your home now will translate into even more money in the sale of it. Overgrown brush and stains on sidewalks can be a turn off for potential buyers. Keep them clean and clear.
Outdoor Living Spaces - Many of today's buyers are looking for outdoor living space as well as indoor living space because it makes the home feel like there is actually more livable area, even when the outdoor space can only be used seasonally. Clean up the patio furniture. Give the area a good power washing to get rid of any mossy buildup. You may even want to dress up the area as if you're getting ready to have a barbecue with friends to give potential buyers an idea of what they can do with the space.
Pictures - The internet is typically the first place a buyer goes to check out Austin real estate. So, you will need photos to let them know what the home looks like. But, don't just use the interior shots. Make sure to include exteriors of the front and back to give them a complete look at what your home has to offer.
When it comes time to selling your Austin home, buyers will judge a book by its cover. Give your story a happy ending by following the above tips. If you need help selling your home or are looking to purchase one in the Austin area, please feel free to contact me.
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