In the world of real estate, "curb appeal" refers to the impression that a potential buyer will get of your home from the view parked at the curb. This is often as far as a buyer gets, especially if the appeal is less than appealing. You may know that the inside of your home is well-kept and immaculate, but those on the market to purchase a home won't ever find out if they don't make it past the curb. In their minds, your home is probably much like your yard, whether that is good or bad.
When you want to sell, or need to sell as many do today, the goal is to get the potential buyer inside so that they may fall in love with your home, write an offer, and close the deal. So, what are the things that you can do to increase the chances of that happening? It starts with stepping back and taking a fresh look. Often, we get so accustomed to seeing the same old thing that we miss things that others will notice immediately. Cross the street and look at your home's exterior and landscaping through the eyes of someone who is seeing it for the first time and take notes on what you see. From there, you can begin to make an improvement list. The following are some of the things that you should look for.
*Edging-Your yard should be nicely edged with clean lines. When the grass is growing out onto the curb and into other areas that it shouldn't be, it gives your yard an overgrown and messy look.
*Flowerbeds/Garden Areas-Flowerbeds and vegetable garden areas should be weeded and well-kept. Remove dead flowers and plant some new bright ones in their places if there are empty spots left.
*Barkdust/Ground Cover-You would be amazed at the difference fresh barkdust makes to your curb appeal. If at all possible, order a load and spread it prior to listing your home for sale. If you can't do that, at least go through and make sure that there are no small pieces of trash littering yours and rake it smooth, bringing up some of the barkdust that has been at the bottom. This will look fresher as it hasn't been discolored by the elements yet.
*Lighting-How is your exterior lighting? Are all the bulbs working? Are the covers filled with bugs and cobwebs or are they sparkling clean? Remove the covers and run them through your dishwasher or wash by hand to ensure that they are clean. If they are outdated, consider replacing them with something more modern.
*Driveways/Walkways-Driveways and walkways should be free of debris, swept daily while the home is on the market. You should also be sure that there are no weeds growing through the cracks and that the lawn is edged around them.
*Lawn-Lawn areas should be mowed and as weed free as possible. Throw down some fresh seed on any bare or sparse spots. Water to keep green if there is some browning.
*Paint-If your paint is outdated or just rather dingy looking and it is financially feasible for you, have your home repainted. At the least, pressure wash the exterior and paint the trim so that it pops!
*Porch/Patio-Porches and patios should be swept and free of clutter. Consider adding a potted plant, a small table and chair set, or some other decor that will look inviting and warm.
*Front Door-Be sure that your front door is clean and if there is a window, that it is washed and sparkly. If the door handle is out of date, replace it with something more modern.
*Windows-Wash windows well and make sure that there are no cracks in any of them. Look to be sure that there are no broken blinds or curtains that are hanging unevenly.
Once you have taken a look at your home from a distance, you will see what potential buyers pulling up to the curb will see. This is your "curb appeal". If there are improvements to be done, get a list going and then get to work. Making sure that your home gives a good first impression is the first step you can take toward getting that offer...signed, sealed, delivered.