Maximize Your Home's Curb Appeal

There's an old saying that goes: "You never get a second chance to make a good first impression."

This is especially true with real estate - the first impression buyers get when they drive up to your house.

If they like what they see on the outside, it sets the stage for a positive showing experience.

But, if your lawn needs cutting or the trim needs paint, you create the impression that your property isn't well maintained, even before potential buyers step through the door.

There's even a possibility they'll reject your house based on that front view alone, and simply drive away. They won't get the chance to appreciate the interior of your home, however appealing it may be.

First impressions - good and bad - start at the front of the house.

It's the first and possibly only view they'll see when they first review potential listings to view with their sales representative.
Your listing photo is your invitation to visit your home, but a picture of windows overgrown with shrubs or a line of garbage bins by the garage will do little to project an inviting exterior.

Understanding curb appeal can help you make it work to your best advantage.

If you're a seller, here's something to consider...

The usual sequence in which a buyer assesses a property is: First, the front view; next, the interior showing, and then ... if there's serious buyer interest ... a look at the yard, the rest of your home's exterior and the garage.

It's a good sign when buyers walk around the entire house. It indicates that everything so far has met with their approval. At this stage, buyers have often already decided to make an offer, and are now just looking out for glaring problems. So, if your exterior needs work, but time or finances are a problem, it makes sense to concentrate your efforts on the front.

If you don't want to paint the entire house, consider just the front door and the windows facing the street.
With good front yard landscaping, money can grow on trees!

If you have pots and baskets of flowers at the rear of your house, move them out front where they can be seen. Make sure your exterior lighting at the front of the house is turned on every evening, and ensure you're using the highest wattage bulbs your fixtures can accommodate. Place an attractive wreath on the front door to help your house stand out from the rest.

Sometimes even a little elbow grease is the only price you have to pay to earn positive curb appeal.

Make sure your lawn is cut, and your bushes are neatly trimmed. Wash the doors and windows on the street side at the first floor level.

Most importantly, ask your real estate agent for their expert advice on how to maximize the curb appeal of your home. They've seen the reactions of countless buyers, and they know what works!