Curb appeal refers to the impression you get when you first see a property. Bang! It hits you. When you drive up to a house, you either like it or you don’t. As a seller, you must pay attention to attractive curb appeal, if you want top dollar of your property.

The simple fact is that most local buyers will drive by your home, before even bothering to set up a time to see it with a realtor. If the realtor is setting up all the appointments, then likewise, they will not embarrass themselves by taking a buyer to a home that will likely be rejected upon first sight. Further complicating this concept is the internet. You or your realtor will take one or more pictures of your home, including an outside photograph. With more and more buyers browsing for homes online, a home in visible disrepair will be crossed off the list even before the buyer drives up to see it.

So what areas do you look at? Here are the key things you need to pay attention to:

• Landscaping
  When you come home from work, check out your neighbor’s landscaping. How does yours look in comparison to theirs? At the least, you want it up to par with the standard in your neighborhood.
  
  
• Paint
  Make sure your house has a fresh coat of paint on it, and that the borders and trim are in good shape.
  
  
• Roof and Gutters
  A house inspection will flag a leaking or damaged roof, so you might as well get to that right away. Make the easy fixes by putting fresh paint on the gutters, and repairing any bent or damaged gutters.
  
  
• Front Door, Porches
  Prospective buyers will enter through your doors and porches. Make them look clean, uncluttered, and inviting.

Curb appeal is a critical part of your effort to market your home for sale. For more information about how to make your home as attractive as possible, simply fill out the form below and click the “Submit” button, and we’ll send you a FREE information package.