If you\u2019re planning on selling your home, one of the first things you can do to attract potential buyers is improve your home’s curb appeal. The first impression that potential buyers have of your home can make or break a sale. How your home and landscaping present themselves from the first moment someone approaches can either be warm and inviting, or messy, unappealing and off-putting.<\/p>\n
According to the National Association of Realtors, 88% of homebuyers begin their process of looking for a home online, and 63% of homeowners will be motivated to visit a home in person if they like what they see online. Websites often prominently feature photos of the home\u2019s exterior, including the front entry, driveway, yard and even sidewalk area, which set the mood and serve as a snapshot of what\u2019s to come.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re selling your home, or just ready to make a few improvements to how it looks, we\u2019ve gathered a few easy and budget-friendly ideas here to help improve your home’s curb appeal, and boost your home\u2019s first impression factor.<\/p>\n
Be the buyer<\/strong>: First thing you should do is take some time to walk around the exterior of you house and look at it from the perspective of someone visiting for the first time. Does anything need repair? Paint chipped or peeling? Gutters loose? Frisbee on the roof? If you really want to get the homebuyers\u2019 perspective, get in your car and slowly approach your home from both directions, being careful to note first impression details that can be improved. Make a list and tackle it yourself or hire a handyman.<\/p>\n Dress up your door<\/strong>: Your home\u2019s front door is the centerpiece of its curb appeal. Make it stand out by giving it a fresh coat of paint in a fun pop of color. Replace old worn-out doors with customer wood ones. And whenever your home is being shown, be sure to keep the door reasonably clean and wipe the hardware free of fingerprints and smudges. You can also go the extra step by framing your front door with matching potted plants or other outdoor d\u00e9cor. And a stylish or seasonal wreath never hurts either.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t forget the windows: <\/strong>Wash your windows, inside and out. Clean all the shutters and curtains. Then go outside and take a look at how your window treatments look from the sidewalk. A clean, bright and uniform look is best, so if you have windows on opposite sides of your front entry, try to make them match for a balanced, pleasing effect.<\/p>\n