BOOSTING YOUR CURB APPEAL TO SELL YOUR HOME

By Jeff  Posted April 3, 2017  In Blog

Spring is here and that means you will be seeing for sale signs in the front yard of many houses. Curb appeal is that undefinable something that draws you to a home at a glance and can really enhance the ability of the property to sell quickly. An attractive entryway or appealing landscaping can make or break a sale.

In a survey conducted by Zillow, real estate agents named curb appeal one of the five most important factors in selling a home. It also found that homes with strong curb appeal fetch prices about 10% higher.

A small budget goes a long way in boosting curb appeal, especially if you do some of the job yourself.

Freshen the Entry

Clean the front door and give it a couple of coats of paint. Repair, replace or remove damaged screen doors and storm doors. Remove everything, including furniture and pots, from the porch, deck or entry and give the entire area a thorough cleaning. Repaint or touch up where needed. Lastly, think about a new custom front door to give the home a well tended look.

Add Front-Door Color

A bright note of contrasting color can bring a home’s front door to life. The trick is to choose colors that complement your home’s exterior landscaping and colors.

Add Living Space Outdoors

If your porch, deck or garden allows, install furnishings that expand the home’s living space into the outdoors. Outdoor rooms are a trendy attraction for homebuyers. Suggestions include adding an inexpensive indoor-outdoor rug, a porch swing, deck furniture, mood lighting, dining or barbecuing areas or an outdoor bar.

Repaint the Exterior

Repainting the outside of your home isn’t a low-budget option. But if the home is ready for a paint job and you can swing it, a new coat of paint increase curb appeal.

Replace Entry Fixtures

Old fixtures often seem dated and unappealing to buyers. By contrast, new exterior light fixtures can quickly give a home an updated look. While you’re at it, replace the house numbers, the entry-door lock set and front-door mailbox. Brushed nickel gives a contemporary look, while an oiled bronze finish works well in traditional homes.

Power Wash

It’s a good idea to rent a power washer if you don’t own one and clean decks and pavement. If you can’t repaint, use a power washer carefully to clean and brighten the home’s siding.