We're Painting the Roses......Yellow?

Whether you decide to hide out in your truck at the end of the cul de sac or head out to enjoy a coffee, having a showing at your home is an exciting event…fingers crossed that this is “the one” who will fall in love with your home in the same way you did.

We all know that first impressions are critical, and your home is no different.  What’s known as curb appeal is an extremely important factor in selling your home, especially in a market with a lot of choices for buyers.  You need to stand out.  So what can you do?  Here are some key pointers for curb appeal success:

• Market research shows that the color yellow actually inspires people to spend money.  In the summer months potted plants out front adding color are a fantastic way to improve the look of your home, but try adding some yellow flowers such as begonias if your front steps are well shaded or marigolds and pansies where the sun shines.
• Make sure your lawn in freshly mowed and watered and try keep on top of any dandelions and any weeds poking thru gardens.  Trim hedges and trees where necessary.  This may be the season you go with a lawn care company.  Showing pride in your yard gives the message that this home is well taken care of.
• Clean outside windows.  Use a long handled squeegee outside to reduce streaks.
• Ensure siding is clean…borrow the neighbors new pressure washer.
• Sand and paint any trim around windows or on railings that is peeling.
• Is the mailbox out front battered and in need of replacing?  A simple fix that can go a long way in curb appeal.
• If you live in an older home and your budget allows, replace the front door with something attractive.  Or consider at least changing the hardware.  Believe it or not, a lot of people are “door people”.
• Know that your roof/shingles need replacing is a major red flag for a buyer.  This is an expensive project.  Same with a sinking driveway, having it jacked before listing may be worth the money for curb appeal as well as safety.
• If your garage door is on the front of your home, take a close look at it.  Does it need repainting or replacing?

When checking out the curb appeal of your home, try and switch roles and view your home from the buyers point of view.  A helpful tip can be to take digital photos of your home and view them both in color and black and white…..when color is removed it can make it easier to spot areas that need improvement.  Pride of ownership will show as potential buyers pull up to your home.  A warm, inviting, well cared for home has an exponentially higher chance of going from For Sale to Sold!