Blake D. Scroggins - GAIN MORE FREEDOM BY DOWNSIZING YOUR HOME

Let’s start with the doorknob. If it’s old or worn out, it should be replaced. Consider the $50 investment of a heavy-duty deadbolt and lock combination. It’s visually impressive and helps potential buyers feel that sense of security. Next, take a look at the whole door. Does it need a paint job? Replacement? If you’re going to repaint it, choose an eye-catching but neutral color that blends in well with the rest of your home’s exterior. Replacing a wooden door with a steel entry door is worth the cost, with an average 91% Return on Investment (ROI). And don’t forget about your back door. If you have a sliding screen door to your backyard, check to see if it needs adjustment or a new screen. Front lawn: Your walkway and front door might look appealing, but what if your lawn doesn’t? Prospective buyers will be turned off and might not even bother with the rest of your home. The trick with an appealing front lawn is to ensure it’s neat, well-kept, and well-manicured, yet doesn’t give off the impression that it’s too high-maintenance. For example, having the grass trimmed is a basic but much- needed consideration. Don’t forget to attack those weeds. Add fertilizer and seed if needed. Also, a simple garden with bright flowers, and a healthy dose of mulch, add a nice touch. But if there’s too much going on, it might give off the wrong “high- maintenance” impression. Backyard. By the time a buyer gets to the backyard, their decision could already be made, but that doesn’t mean you can skimp on backyard “curb” appeal. When potential buyers reach the backyard, they’ll likely be picturing themselves there — relaxing, playing with children or pets, having company over, etc. Your job is to make that vision work for them.

What I said about your front lawn applies to your backyard. Keep

74

Powered by