Realty World -Blue Property Group

How important is curb appeal?

Ask any buyer today, and they will tell you curb appeal may determine if they even want to see inside.  You may think with all of the foreclosures and short sales on the market today in pretty bad shape, why would it matter what the curb appeal of your home is?

Today’s buyer is pretty savvy ~They are searching for homes online, driving through neighborhoods and are making a point to educate themselves to the buying process.

Expectation ~ Since more buyers are doing more homework, their expectations are very high. They understand with a distressed property comes work. The property has been neglected or the owner is not in a position to maintain the property. However, when it comes to a regular sale, they expect the property to be taken care of.

Perception ~ The perception of the buyer is they may be getting a better deal on a distressed sale, even though you may have priced your home in line with what is in the neighborhood. So when looking at a traditional sale, if the property doesn’t have the curb appeal, the perception is the property has not been maintained. Perception could kill you if you don’t do something to alter that perception!

• Landscaping ~ Landscaping says a lot about a home. By maintaining a well manicured yard it represents the care that carries through to the home. Keep the grass manicured, trees and bushes trimmed, put down some mulch in the planting beds. Native plants and flowers to your area will help add color and will require less maintenance for the new homeowner.
• Home Appearance ~ A fresh coat of paint or a good power washing to make it sparkle will add years to the appearance!
• Fencing ~ Don’t forget about the fences surrounding the property. Even with beautiful landscaping and a sharp looking appearance, a fence in poor condition is $$ in the buyers mind.
• Inviting Entry ~ The entry to any home is what represents “Welcome”. Even on a limited budget, an entry way that is inviting sets the mood for the rest of the home.
• Driveway ~ A driveway full of oil spills or cracks is something that buyers will notice. Take the time to prepare the driveway for sale, just as you are the landscaping!
• Lighting ~ The proper lighting for evening viewing/visitors is important. If the light does not guide you home, it won’t guide the potential buyers either! It may be as simple as changing the fixture on the front porch to as much as landscape lighting for larger yards.

If you are considering selling your home, it is worth the time and few extra dollars to make it pop! You may be pleasantly surprised to know how much curb appeal will add to the value of your home!  Curb Appeal ~ Who Cares? Buyers Do!

For more information please on how to bring more appeal to your curb, contact Shantell Owens @ 925-594-0321