Getting your home ready to sell? Here’s how to increase curb appeal the easy and affordable way.
Trim the grass
Landscaping also plays a major role in curb appeal. The Economic Benefits of Landscape by the Landscape Contractors of America states that landscaping can increase resale value by as much as 14% and help it sell six weeks faster. That’s why it’s worth investing in lawn care and garden maintenance.
So trim the grass, weed the garden, and replace broken siders or cracked stepping stones. If you have a pool, pond, or fountain, make sure that these water features are clean and presentable before showing your home.
If you don’t have time or energy to attend to your lawn, consider investing in professional landscaping services. A professional can make recommendations and provide the labor necessary to keep your lawn in great shape.
Repaint or replace the front door
Your front door is one of the first things people see upon arriving at the property. That’s why real estate agents and professional stagers typically recommend cleaning and repainting the front door before listing the home.
Keep in mind that your front door gets a lot of wear and tear from the outside elements, whether it’s the California sun or the sweltering heat, and it will show.
Cleaning your front door and giving it a fresh coat paint can update the look and feel of the property. You can paint it a bold color to add some oomph to the home and instantly grab prospective buyers’ attention.
Make sure that the hardware, including the knob, knocker, locks, and hinges are working properly. The same goes for the video doorbell, digital lock, or intercom, if you have smart features.
If your door has a lot of wear and tear, consider replacing it with a new one. You can upgrade to a steel door, which gives the home a modern feel and can make buyers feel more secure about staying in the home.
Clean and repaint the exterior walls
Real estate and staging experts also recommend power washing the exterior walls, sidings, and windows. Professional power washing services typically cost $100 to $600 depending on the size and condition of your home. It is generally advisable to power wash the exterior walls before repainting them. This can help ensure a better paint job.
Clean the driveway
A clean and clutter-free driveway can make a positive first impression on prospective buyers. Agents and stagers recommend power washing the driveway and sidewalk before listing your home. Keep your driveway clear in time for photoshoots and home viewings. Park your car elsewhere and remove any debris or clutter.
If your driveway is in bad shape, with stained or cracked pavers and asphalt, consider getting it fixed. According to HouseLogic, homeowners typically spend $1450 on average to have their driveways repaired.
Revamp the porch
If you want to step it up a notch, consider adding tasteful décor on the porch and front steps of your home. Seasonal decor like Christmas wreaths can help give your home a lived-in feel. You can also place potted plants, flowers or succulents on the porch for an added burst of color. Remember to update the house numbers on the front door and upgrade exterior lighting fixtures to update your porch.
Looking for tips to increase home value? Contact me, Kathy Seuylemezian of Imuragent at 818.949.5205 and kathy(at)imuragent(dotted)com for more information. I add a personal touch to real estate services to give all my clients a pleasant and memorable experience.