The Importance Of Curb Appeal
Curb appeal tends to be something sellers either don’t put enough weight on in general or it’s something that is only thought of during the springtime. Curb appeal can be accomplished year round. Fall is a wonderful time of year that provides a beautiful backdrop for your home. No matter what season we’re in curb appeal should be on the list for items that need attention prior to listing your home.
Roof – if your roof looks rundown and has loose or missing shingles give it the attention it needs prior to going on the market. Buyers and their agents are undoubtedly going to look at the roof as they walk up or leave. Give them the right impression by making sure there aren’t any shingles missing and if there are any loose have them secured.
Gutters – do the gutters need to be tightened or maybe even replaced? Walk around your house and inspect them to see if they’re loose or hanging off. Also look to see if they’re bent. Having clean gutters is a must, vegetation growing out of gutters is a sure sign of deferred maintenance and not what buyers want to see.
Windows – clean the windows inside and out. While this might seem simple (it is) it’s often overlooked and it makes a big difference in how your home shows inside and out. Check the exterior trim and if the paint is peeling scrape it off and repaint. If any of it appears to be rotten have it replaced prior to going on the market.
Driveway – in addition to power washing the driveway make sure you don’t leave the car parked there. It can send off a signal to buyers that the house doesn’t have ample storage in addition to being a distraction as they walk up to the house to see it for the first time.
Front Door – inspect your front door to make sure paint isn’t peeling and that the hardware is in good shape. If you think it might need replacing consult with your agent to see if they recommend getting a new door installed. If they think it needs replacing, do just that. If it needs a good cleaning add that to the list. The front door is the first place buyers are going to enter your home, have it prepared to make the right first impression.
Landscaping – avoid the "dead zone" by removing any bushes, shrubs, or plants that have bit the dust. Trim bushes and trees, pull all the weeds, add new mulch to flower beds, and make sure the grass isn’t overgrown. Add a potted seasonal plant by the front door for an extra pop of color. During the fall a Mum is perfect or you could have a couple small pumpkins or gourds to greet potential buyers.
Whatever you do don’t underestimate the perceived value buyers walk away with as a direct result of curb appeal – regardless of what time of year it is. Making the right first impression with buyers is imperative and a home with great curb appeal leaves buyers feeling it’s been well maintained vs. seeing a home with gutters hanging off the house and a front door that’s hard to open leaving them feeling like it’s going to be a money pit.
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