by Kerry Michael Wood

Created on: April 17, 2009   Last Updated: June 22, 2009

The first impression a potential home buyer gets when visiting a property is what realtors speak of as "curb appeal." Sellers who want to get the best price for their home would do well to invest some time, elbow grease and a little money to do for a house's exterior what staging professionals do for the interior.

The first and most obvious way to enhance curb appeal is to get rid of dirt, grime and grease. No, we're not talking about scrubbing and power washing. Let's keep it simple.

Controlling moisture

Trim shrubs near the house and be sure that mulch and vegetation are not in contact with exterior walls. Trim any branches or tree limbs so that they are not in contact with the painted surface. Clean out gutters and clear drains of any leaves or debris that prevent them from doing the job they are intended to do. If there is a sprinkler system, adjust and redirect sprayers so they don't hit the walls. Take whatever steps are necessary to ensure that rainwater or self-directed water does not pool, particularly near foundations.

Cleaning exterior walls and other surfaces

Use a cleanser with an APA-registered mildewcide. There are products that kill mold and mildew, loosen dirt and stains, and they don't require heavy brush scrubbing or power wshers. Check labels to assure that they do not damage wood, aluminum siding, or other surfaces. Be sure to protect ground plants and grass unless the product label says it would not be harmful to plant life.

For streaks, mildew, and dirt staining asphalt shingled roofs, buy a roof cleaner product. Several brands promise to kill mold and mildew on tile, slate, metal, and other non-porous materials.

Outdoor furniture

The same mildew remover can renew patio tables, garden chairs and other outdoor furniture and accessories. Grubby patio furniture and barbecue areas will make your backyard areas unappealing.

Concrete and pavers

If your concrete looks old, stained, or weathered, you can freshen it with semi-transparent concrete stain kits. They are simple to apply and can brighten outdoor areas with colors like terra cotta, sandstone, or Tuscan rock. Paving stones that were beautiful when first installed have probably been stained by grease, tire marks, paint and the general wear and tear of ordinary use. Their original beauty can be restored with a three-step process: cleanng , sealant application, and sealer protection. Well-kept pavers and attractive concrete will add value to your home.

Take a little time, effort, and the money to purchase modern products for exterior cleaning and preservation, and you may be able to realize a sale price far beyond what you might have expected. Curb appeal sells houses.

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