The Importance of Curb Appeal

As we all know, we are still in the middle of a buyer’s market.  But what most seller’s don’t realize, is that when inventory is high buyers aren’t looking for reasons to buy a particular house, they are looking for reasons not to.  And as soon as they have found enough reasons, they will move on to the next house.  The unfortunate truth is that if buyers don’t find the outside of your house appealing, they will never take the time to see what’s on the inside. So a seller’s goal should be to impress buyers right at the outset.

Here are some smart, inexpensive things home sellers can do to boost their curb appeal and get buyers to take a closer look.

1. The most basic thing you MUST do is to make sure everything is tidy and clean.  This means flower beds should be kept weeded, the lawn should be mowed and the trimming should be done.  Nothing should look overgrown. Do not leave toys and bikes lying in the yard.  If there are outside lights, make sure they are clean and working.  If the siding needs to be power washed, do it.  Any of these things left undone may leave an impression of neglect.
   
   
2. If you don’t paint anything else, paint the front door, trim, and entry area.  Buyers spend quite a few minutes just standing there while the agent is opening the lock box and getting the front door open.  Dirt, peeling paint, mildew, and cobwebs will jump out at them.  And who says a door has to be boring?  Add a splash of color.  Paint it fire engine red or a sunny yellow. Draw the buyer in. Have them smiling before they even walk into the house.
   
   
3. Accessorize!  Flags, hanging baskets, planters, lights, hardware, kickplates, doorknockers, and interesting house numbers can all give the
   impression that you like calling attention to your home.  Don’t do it all.  Just pick a few things to add some finishing touches.  And you don’t need a big
   old-fashioned porch with rockers and a porch swing to make it work.  Hang a wreath on the door, put a planter on the stoop, or add some window boxes. 

It doesn’t matter what time of year it is.  Spring and Summer may seem easier because everything is green and you can have beautiful flowers blooming
everywhere.  But Autumn and Winter bring with them their own seasonal beauty. 
Take advantage of it.  In today’s market, half the battle is getting the buyers to walk in the front door.