The outside appearance of a property needs to be an invitation to come inside. Potential home buyers are drawn to welcoming entries and uncluttered yards. They are unlikely to be attracted to a home with dead shrubbery and a weather-worn exterior. It is no stretch to think a buyer will believe the home is neglected on the inside as well. Look at your home as a prospect would. Drive up to the curb and take inventory of everything that needs attention. Simple improvements like weeding, trimming, and window washing can improve the appearance of a home with little to no expense. Repair and repainting are costlier, but often tell in time-to-sale or sale price. Low-cost investments like power washing the house and concrete, repainting trim, and adding landscaping also give your house more curb appeal. The goal here is to get more money for your home. Home buyers generally aren’t interested in a home that needs work unless you want to sell below market value.
Look around your yard and make a written list of everything that could be improved:
• • Shrubs trimmed, flower gardens tended, and walkways tidy; beds weeded • • No trash, trash cans, lawn clippings, branches, or general mess in the yard • • All outside fixtures and components working and in good repair (door and yard lights, garage door, porch rails); functioning properly and looking their best
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