If you watch HGTV, curb appeal comes up a lot! When you’re
selling your home, its curbside appeal gives potential buyers their first impression of your property before they step inside. The way your home looks from outside gives buyers an idea of what they can expect inside. Curb appeal is a useful marketing tool because it can help encourage buyers to continue looking inside your home. Help your house make a lasting first impression with these creative curb appeal tips.
Curb Appeal Actually Starts on the Internet
According to the National Association of Realtors, 90% of homebuyers search online as
part of their home buying process. This means that eye-catching pictures that highlight the curb appeal of your home are an absolute requirement for reaching potential buyers. Take multiple pictures of your home at different times of day and in different light conditions. Pay close attention to the background of your photos to avoid any excess clutter like cars, toys, etc. You want to be sure your home looks clean and at its best.
Add Value to Your Home with Modern Curb Appeal
Improved curb appeal will
increase your property’s value and help it sell faster. Most home appraisals are based on a home’s interior condition and features, which makes it difficult to calculate exactly how much the house curb appeal adds to your property value. But on average, homes with well-kept lawns, professional landscaping, and curbside appeal sell for 7% more than similar homes without those exterior features.
Here’s a Few Curb Appeal Ideas to Improve Your Home
You don’t have to spend a fortune to improve your house’s curb appeal. There are many modern curb appeal improvements you can accomplish on a limited budget. Here are a few simple tips for improving the curb appeal of your home:
Curb Appeal Landscaping Can Be Very Pleasing to the Eye
The first thing potential buyers will see is your front yard curb appeal. Make sure the grass, landscaping, and any other foliage near the front of your home is healthy and neat. Burnt or dirt patches in the yard will make your property feel old and neglected. Water your lawn, plant some grass seed, or consider sod or artificial grass if needed. Trim your bushes or hedges and remove any that are overgrown or dying. Consider adding a fresh layer of mulch around trees or in plant beds. And finally, don’t overlook your driveway. Pull any weeds or use weed spray in the cracks. A tidy, attractive front yard will make potential buyers want to come inside and see more!
Increase Front Porch Curb Appeal with Furniture, Swings, and more
Next, take a look at your front porch or patio area. Adding a swing, chairs, or other furniture will make buyers want to sit down and enjoy the view! Does your front door look welcoming, or does it need a fresh coat of paint or even a new door? According to Remodeling magazine, a new entry door has an average return on investment of 75%, so a new door is a great investment that pays for itself. Another thing that many homeowners don’t think about is the house numbers. If your house numbers are fading or broken, replacing them is an inexpensive fix that really improves your house curb appeal.
Improve Your Home’s Exterior: Roof, Siding, Windows, etc.
There are also larger projects that will improve curb appeal, like your roof, siding, and windows. Take an objective look at your property’s physical condition—potential buyers definitely will! Many buyers will shy away from a home with obvious maintenance needs like the roof, windows, or gutters. Make the investment and repair or replace them if needed; it will really impact your ability to sell your home for top dollar. Then make sure your home’s siding is clean; power washing your siding or deck is an inexpensive task that can have a big impact.
Make Sure Your Home Has Plenty of Outdoor Lighting
Curb appeal doesn’t just happen during the daytime. You’ll also want to be sure your home is visible and looks attractive at night. Outdoor lighting is an element of modern curb appeal that many people forget. Add low-voltage lighting along your driveway, sidewalks, and near important landscaping elements. A decorative light fixture on front porch can make your entrance look warm and welcoming. There are many budget-friendly lighting options that will add curb appeal after dark.
Need More Helpful Tips for Selling Your Home? Check Out Our Blog!
Now that you understand the importance or curb appeal, take some of these simple steps to get your home ready to sell! For more helpful tips, check out the Landmark Realty
blog. And contact the experts at
Landmark Realty—we’ll help you sell your home fast!
