Curb Appeals Impact

      The summer's scorching heat wave has wreaked havoc on a number of levels.  All across North Carolina, drought conditions have seen little improvement forcing local officials to enact water restrictions.  Normally well-manicured lush green lawns have browned in the dry heat.  Yes amazingly, now in October, some communities still face restrictions.  Even so, when facing the toughest of circumstances, it still is important to maintain the outer appearance of your home when trying to sell.  After all, a buyer sees the outside first, and that first impression, known as curb appeal, can make or break a deal.

      By all means, follow whatever guidelines your local leadership has chosen to enact in an effort to conserve water, but take a few other steps to ensure that your home presents the best impression possible.  Water the lawn when allowed and keep grass cut.  If you have a flowerbed, make sure that it has been cared as well.  Different flowers do well at different times in the season.  Check with your local home and garden supply store to find out what vegetation thrives given the season and local weather conditions.  Keep flowerbeds free of weeds.  Trim and prune hedges and bushes.  Inspect fences and decks.  Do you need to paint shutters again?  Is the siding still in good shape?  What about the shingles and the gutters?  Check every aspect of the outer appearance of your home to make the best first impression.