EXTERIORS AND LANDSCAPING

 Here is some information on getting your house ready to sell regarding exteriors and landscaping.

ENHANCE CURB APPEAL

 First impressions are lasting impressions. A large percentage of home buyers decide whether or not to look inside a house based on its curb appeal--the view they see when they drive by or arrive for a showing.  An inviting exterior entices prospective buyers to step inside with a "this could be ours" attitude.  You can help make sure they come inside your home by spending some time to freshen up its exterior appearance.

PAINTING PAYS OFF

A new coat of paint can do wonders to restore a home's appeal.  Is your exterior paint cracking, peeling or chipping? If your budget can stand it, a top-quality job of scraping, filling holes, priming and a fresh coat of paint will increase your home'ss market value.  Choose neutral colors appropriate for the style of your home and that blend in well in your neighborhood. And consider the color of your roof when choosing paint color.

ROOF REPAIR

Leaking roofs and damaged downspouts and gutters signal that the home hasn't been well-cared for.  So now is the time to repair these problems! Once the roof is repaired, patch and paint the ceiling inside so buyers won't worry about roof problems.

MAKE A GRAND ENTRANCE

A neat, cheerful front entry extends a friendly invitation into your home.  Paint the door, trim and polish or add a new hardware and a decorative knocker.  Consider adding a more stylish front door that complements the architectural elements and decorative details of your entryway, inside and out.

Let your home shine, even at night, by installing a decorative light post or accent lighting.  Be sure the lighting illuminates your entrances, walkways and drive.

Make sure that your interior and exterior windows are spotless and that your screens and storm windows are in good condition.

BASIC OUTDOOR MAINTENANCE COUNTS

A well-manicured lawn and attractive landscape plantings enhance your home's curb appeal. Mow, water and fertilize the lawn regularly. Keep crisp edging lines between your lawn, drive and walkways and be sure to pull grass from between the cracks.

Your walkway and drive also affect prospective buyers' perceptions of your home.  Sweep them clean of all debris. Repair broken asphalt or cement.  If you have a fence, repair, repaint or stain as necessary.

LANDSCAPE FOR A LUXURIOUS LOOK

Landscape can have a powerful impact on potential buyers and how they view the "total package" of your home. Simple, inexpensive planting projects are often all it takes to perk up a landscape.  Colorful flowers in your front yard also enhance your home's curb appeal.  In addition, a window box full of flowers is an inexpensive way to add an accent of color to your home's exterior.