Then again, they might be driving by, see these flaws and drive right past. Don't underestimate how much first impressions count. And don't underestimate the importance of curb appeal.
"Curb appeal" is the impact a property makes when seen from a car or the sidewalk. If the exterior of a property and the yard are tidy and well-maintained, buyers walk in with a feeling that the
interior will be the same way. If the lawn is shaggy and unkempt, and the windows are dirty and broken, they may not be inclined to go inside and will never see all the work done there.
Here are some do's and don'ts for increasing a property's curb appeal:
Don'ts
Don't let vegetation and bushes grow into a jungle. Remove dead trees and leaves, prune overgrown shrubs, edge beds and plant seasonal flowers. Plant, fertilize and water the grass, too.
Don't let chipped, peeling or deteriorating paint go unaddressed. If cleaning doesn't revive your property, you can always transform it with a fresh, new coat of paint.
Don't let burned out outdoor lighting leave the property in a bad light. To make it look safe and attractive, add some lighting to the front of the home. Just don't over do it.
Don't leave broken outdoor furniture or random items on the front porch. If prospective buyers are greeted by dirty or broken chairs, a sea of children's toys or dead flowers, they may not even want to set foot inside. You want to encourage the
owners to keep the property clean and tidy.
Don't procrastinate with repairs. If the property owner doesn't have the time or skills to do the fix-ups, encourage them to hire a handyman, gardener or pool service to do the work. Visit the property again before any showings to make sure the work has been finished.
Dos
Do take a tour of the exterior. Long before showing the property, take a walk around the exterior and note any problem areas. It's important that there aren't surprises when showing the property to prospective buyers.
Do relocate any trash bins to the back and sweep the leaves in the yard. A well-kept property draws more interest. It's one of the least expensive yet more significant things you can do to improve the look of a property.
Do make the windows sparkle. Use a garden hose to wet the outside windows before washing. It helps to loosen dirt. Second- or third-story windows may require professional help or a power-washer rented from a local store.
Do focus on details. Remembering the small things can make a big difference. Your mailbox, house numbers, front light and colorful and healthy potted plants on the porch all present inexpensive, but great opportunities to project style
and elegance.
Do splash on a fresh coat of paint where needed. Using striking colors can not only highlight a property's character, but it can from an eyesore into an eye-catcher. If painting the property is beyond your seller's budget, consider painting just the trim.
Do make certain the property is properly lit and remove any overgrown trees. Overgrown trees can cast unwanted shadows, making a property seem dark and gloomy. Add a few lights in or on trees for a special glow. This can improve the exterior's overall appearance.
If the owner balks at making improvements, tell them to think of their property's appearance as a form of advertising. The money they invest can add value to the home, increasing its curb appeal and generating more showings, a quicker sale and - possibly - a better price.