Curb appeal is important because it sets the tone for what the buyer is going to see inside. If the buyer likes the exterior, he or she will be predisposed to also like the interior and you’re that much closer to selling your home. The first thing you need to do to find ways to create curb appeal is to go outside and view your home from the front.
Walkways Matter
The first place to start is with any walkways in the front of your home. You will want pristine walkways during any time of year. Make sure walkways are clear of snow, weeds, or debris. The seasons aren’t the only enemy of curb appeal though.
You will also want to make sure the cement, stone, or whatever you have for walkways are in perfect condition. Repair or replace cracked steps or pavers. Don’t forget about the driveway, which can be considered a walkway as well. Driveways should also be clear of vehicles, toys, and debris. Park cars in the garage.
Landscaping
Landscaping is the next big deal as it pertains to ways to create curb appeal. California has been dealing with droughts year over year which means you don’t need to be too hard on yourself here. However, you will want to take care of what you do have, especially if it is a natural lawn.
Keep your lawn cut, edged, and watered to the best of your ability. Don’t forget any trees or bushes that need to be kept up. Prune dead branches and plants. Gardens help make curb appeal even better so take care of those as well. Weed flower beds and replace leggy, thin landscaping with fresh plants and flowers.
Take Another Look
You found many ways to create curb appeal for your home. In fact, you have completed many of them already. It is time for a second look. However, pay more attention to the house itself this time. Replace loose or damaged roof shingles, clean the gutters, and paint and caulk window trim and doors.
Many people forget about the entry way to a home as well, more on that later. But you can get started by taking care of the biggest issues. Repaint the front door an eye-catching color that complements the rest of the exterior. Replace broken windows.
Enhance the Entry
The entry way is often the first thing people see, even before they notice the garden or the rooftop. Luckily, the entryway doesn’t always require a complete update. Power wash siding, brick, windows, and porches. You may find that this is all that needs to be done to make things look like new.
Unfortunately, you may also find that power washing and cleaning was not enough. Paint or replace furniture such as rocking chairs or porch swings. Seems like something unimportant to replace patio furniture. But this helps others picture themselves sitting on that porch and enjoying their time outdoors.
Finally, you will want to work on the smaller things. Replace mailboxes, light fixtures, doorknobs, or any other fixture that looks less than fresh. Put out a welcoming new floor mat. Together, these things will increase the curb appeal of your home perfectly.
Some parts of your home may require more work than others, but it’s well worth it to get buyers eager to see what’s inside.
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