In a competitive housing market, how do you ensure your home gets seen by the most prospective purchasers? We have two words for you: curb appeal.
The exterior sometimes is an afterthought, which is a mistake. Think about it: you only have one chance to make a first impression. Within seconds of seeing your home, buyers will have formed their opinion. They either like what they see and want to see more, or they won’t give your listing a second thought as they continue to the next, neater, nicer house for sale down the street.
If you want to sell your home, you’ve got to start thinking like a buyer. Most people will start their search by scouring online listings. If your photos survive the first round of cuts, homebuyers will do a drive-by or schedule a showing to see the home for themselves.
Here are five easy and low-cost updates to boost your home’s curb appeal – in photos and in person.
1) A Fresh Coat - Paint your front door, shutters and trim. This will freshen up the overall exterior and give your home that special something that buyers will remember. Consider vibrant colour that complements your home's style.
2) By The Numbers - Replace your old and dingy house numbers, doorknobs and mailbox. Whether you realize it or not, everyone will come up close with these fixtures – and they will judge your home based on these not-so-minor details.
3) Light 'Er Up! - A popular open-house tip is to turn on all the lights to give your home a sense of warmth and "liveability." This also applies to your home's exterior, helping to highlight the entrance to your home and welcoming buyers in!
4) Landscaped Loved - A well-tended garden alludes to a well-maintained home – something most homebuyers would consider a plus. This is also a cost-effective and low-effort way to add non-committal colour to the exterior. Just don't forget to water them!
5) Raise The Roof! - While this isn't exactly a "cheap" fix, but it could be well worth the price in the grand scheme of things. A home with missing or curled shingles screams "keep walking!" to potential homebuyers.
It can be tough to judge a home that you’ve lived in for a long time. Here’s where it can help to ask your real estate agent to offer some constructive criticism to help bring your home up to par. After all, their mission is the same as yours – the sell your home for the right price and in quick time frame.
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