First Impressions Count – Improve Your Curb Appeal

First Impressions Count – top tips for improving your curb appeal!

When selling your home you want to make sure everything looks the best it possibly can in order to attract buyers. While you may be fortunate enough to have a house with few to no repairs each home could use a few improvements to spruce up the curb appeal. Curb appeal is the first impression buyers get of your home. With more than 80% of buyers looking online at pictures before visiting a home in person it is important to make your property stand out in appearance. Also, poor curb appeal can turn away potential buyers due to the apparent lack of maintenance – even if your interior is outstanding.  Just a few changes to your homes exterior can make a huge difference. Here are a few tips if you are thinking about improving your curb appeal.

Change the front door.
Not just the paint color. While the color of the front door can make a drastic change, buyers are also looking for a certain type of door. The newest trend in front doors are steel entry doors which are both safe and energy efficient (what most buyers are looking for in today’s market) but also have a low cost, ranging from $99 to $500. While this is the best option for median priced homes, if you are in a luxury market or neighborhood make sure your entry matches the formality of the home.

Change the garage door.
Just like changing the front door, changing the garage door can have a major impact on the curb appeal of your home. An unimpressive garage door that is dirty, faded or barely hanging on needs replacing. A new door can draw the attention of passing traffic which can lead to an increase of potential buyers wanting to buy your house.

Get a new roof.
While this sounds like a large chunk of change coming out of your wallet it can be even worse if that old roof starts to leak or worse. When looking at a house buyers always ask how old the roof is because they do not want to be left to pay for your lack of repairs. Its better to do it on your own before being told by an inspector which will typically loose you buyers.

Get new windows. 
Another large expense that will have a big payoff in the end. This change can instantly enhance the curb appeal of your house. If you do not have to budget to replace all windows, just switch out those facing the curb. Buyers are looking to be more energy efficient so when searching for the right replacements keep that in mind.

Clean the windows. 
If you do not need new windows you will need to clean your current ones. You might not notice the difference between a dirty window and a clean window while it is dirty you can certainly see the difference once it is clean. Having clean windows throughout your house shows buyers that you take care of your home. This can be an easy fix if you do it yourself or if you hire a professional.

Clean up the landscaping. 
Cut the grass, plant some flowers, trim the hedges. Simple tasks like this have a drastic impact on the curb appeal. A yard that hasn’t been maintained tells buyers the house is in the same condition.

If you’re thinking of selling and have questions on the market or if you’re wondering what steps you should take to prep your home for sale, contact Wilson Realty Group at (919)378-1974! Our expert Listing Specialists are here for you!