Underestimating the importance of curb appeal to the perceived value of a home is a big mistake that many homeowners make. Remember, curb appeal or lack thereof, is the first thing potential buyers notice about your home.
Curb Appeals Do’s
Roof and Chimney
Shingles should be intact with none missing and mortar between the bricks should be secure. Although expensive to replace, a roof or chimney in disrepairs often discourages potential homebuyers.
In fact, any financing buyers will not be able to get financing if the roof is in need of repair. It’s inevitable, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Gutters
Be sure to repair and clean gutters. Nothing says “poor maintenance” like a garden growing in your gutter. Alarming potential buyers about maintenance will often make them start looking extra hard for problems to be found.
Even if you aren’t planning to sell, clean gutters are essential! Clogged and backed up gutters can cause leaks and roof problems.
Pool
If you have a pool, make sure you continue to maintain it, even if it’s not swimming season. A sparkling pool or a green lagoon have drastically different impacts on potential buyers. Not to mention that potential buyers may have problems getting financing without the pool working properly.
Invest in Cool House Numbers
Switch out those old, tired, and faded house numbers to give your address a makeover. The idea is to make sure your home is easily found by potential buyers.
This also makes it easier for any and all delivery drivers.
Windows & Trim
If the paint on the trim or windows is peeling, scrape it and repaint. Replace any broken or cracked glass and clean the windows and sills, inside and out.
Peeling paint is also a red flag for inspectors and some financing types.
Wash Your House’s Face
Pressure washing your home and driveway can add instant curb appeal and increase the value of your home.
Landscaping
A well-landscaped yard can instantly improve your curb appeal. Plant fresh flowers/plants in bare places and replace dead or dying plants as needed. Be sure to keep your lawn cut, edged, and green!
Upgrade the Front Door
Upgrading or freshening up your front door greatly increases resale value. Whether you need to upgrade your front door or simply freshen it up with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware can make a tremendous difference.
Upgrade the Mailbox
Is your mailbox dented, wobbly, or just plain ugly? Replacing your mailbox and stand is an affordable great way to add personality.
Quick Gardening Tips
For FREE, You Can…
- -Clean up existing plant beds by removing weeds and overgrown and/or dead plants.
- -Prune shrubs and trim tree branches
For $100, You Can…
- -Create a welcoming entrance with one or two big pots filled with fresh colorful plants or flowers.
- -Use grass seed or replace sod in bare/brown areas of your lawn. Spread wildflower seeds in empty flowerbeds.
For $500, You Can…
- -Invest in a couple of great architectural pots that make a statement at your entrance. Add rounded boxwoods or a seasonal planting of ornamental grasses and colorful flowers.
- -Add a bench or garden ornaments, such as a trellis or birdbath, to a key spot or add some fresh flowers at the base of your new mailbox.
- -Spruce up your foundation plantings with a border of long-blooming perennials.
- -Pay a professional to do the dirty work for you.
Curb Appeal Mistakes Don’ts
Improper Paint Colors
Opt for neutral colors – gray, black, white, and beige – rather than colors that are too personal or extreme, pink, purple, or bright yellow.
Cluttered Driveway
A car parked in the driveway tells potential buyers that the house isn’t large enough to store everything. It’s also distracting in online pictures.
Dead on Arrival
Gardens may not look great out of season, but you can spruce them up by getting rid of dead leaves, branches, and plants.
Personal Possessions
Religious décor, lawn ornaments, kids’ toys scattered and/or piled up is a no-no. Put away as much as you possibly can without inconveniencing yourself and your day-to-day activities.
