Five Ways to Improve Curb Appeal

Prospective buyers searching for that perfect home might drive right by your house because of a very bad first impression. So, what is the first impression? Real estate experts know that "curb appeal" is the first impression that the buyer receives of any house up for sell. Remember, house selling involves more than cleaning up the interior and making it presentable. Curb appeal sets the tone for the entire first impression. The house sellers first goal is to make the exterior of the house very attractive and draw the buyer to the curb and into the house. In fact, the home owner might not sell the house if curb appeal is lacking. Here are a few tips to improve curb appeal and receive the prospective buyers' stamp of approval.

Landscaping - Those searching for a new home will certainly drive by any home on the real estate market that has overgrown hedges, weeds, and trees blocking the view of the home from the street. Buyers want a clear view of the home they are considering purchasing. Hire a professional landscaper to get the lawn and surrounding grounds in tip top shape. Add a few seasonal flowers for a pleasant touch.

Painting - Nothing destroys curb appeal like a home with peeling paint on the exterior. A fresh new coat of paint on the exterior should do wonders to improve the total appeal of the home.

Outside Maintenance - Walk around the house. Look at the house like a potential buyer would. Inspect the windows, doors, and walkways leading to the home. Repair all broken windows or sagging doors, and walkways.

Fencing - That perfect lawn, driveway, and walkway, might draw in buyers, but the broken fence around the house would be pretty distracting. Repair, paint, all fencing that surrounds the house. Or if necessary, replace the fencing around the home.

Front Door - Would you buy a home with a broken window in the front door, a rusty lock, and a loose door knob? It is amazing how many home sellers leave their front door in bad repair. Jazz up that front door. Make it as appealing as possible. Add new locks, new door knobs, repair windows. A fresh coat of paint in an appealing color might place your house higher up on curb appeal list.

Of course, there are many more little touches that the home seller might want to do to improve curb appeal. These are a few of the basic improvements that might just land that sell.