Curb Appeal for Sellers on a Budget!
Improving a home's curb appeal can significantly boost its value and attractiveness. When clients are ready to sell and wish to enhance their home's appeal for prospective buyers, they don't have to invest heavily to make a noticeable difference to their home’s curb appeal. This guide will offer practical and cost-effective strategies to enhance the exterior beauty of their home without overspending.
Freshen Up The Front Door
One of the simplest yet most effective improvements you can make to a home is giving the front door a fresh coat of paint.
Before committing to a front door color, consider the location, style and overall climate where the home is located. Benjamin Moore provides some inspiration with “17 Front Door Colors to Elevate Your Home’s Curb Appeal”. They suggest that you “ensure cohesion by taking the entire palette of your exterior into consideration. Your front door should act as the perfect accent to your home, including siding, landscaping, and decor.” Even if your clients decide to stick with classic white, they need to be sure it’s looking crisp and bright, inside and out!
Home Depot’s post on “Front Door Ideas and Styles”, not only focuses on color but delves into the various styles available as well as material choices for door construction. So not only will homeowners get tips on paint color, they’ll gain some front door knowledge too.
Consider upgrading the hardware too. A modern doorknob or handle can enhance the overall look, and an electronic door lock adds convenience. To elevate the entryway, think about adding potted plants, seasonal decorations, or a welcome mat. Simple touches like these can create a warm atmosphere that invites potential buyers inside.
Landscape Wisely
Improving the landscape can transform the look of a home without hiring a professional. Start by clearing out flower beds, trimming overgrown bushes, and removing weeds. Next, introduce a few colorful, easy-to-care-for plants such as petunias or marigolds that can survive various weather conditions. Using mulch can give your garden a polished look, while also helping retain moisture and suppress weeds.
In an article from Real Simple, Aaron Hendon, a best-selling real estate author, says that sellers should “Look for plants that thrive in the local environment. They will look healthier and require less maintenance,” he says. And in a buyer’s mind, maintenance equals upkeep and costs. “In today’s world of climate change, drought resistant, low maintenance plants are more and more popular,” he adds.”
Add Exterior Lighting
Incorporating exterior lighting can dramatically enhance a home's atmosphere during the evening. Solar-powered lights are a popular choice, offering eco-friendly options for illuminating walkways and gardens.
Installing wall-mounted lights on either side of the front door adds both safety and charm. Aim for lights that emit a warm glow to create an inviting entrance.
Keep It Clean and Tidy
A clean exterior can significantly boost a home's appeal. Power washing the driveway, sidewalks, and the outer walls can freshen up the space tremendously. A clean home can make it look newer and well-cared-for.
Additionally, keeping gutters clear and in good repair is crucial. A tidy environment, including a regularly mowed lawn and trimmed hedges, communicates that this home is loved and maintained.
Impressive from the Outside In!
Transforming a home's curb appeal on a budget is possible and can be quite enjoyable for your clients. Focus on practical updates like painting the front door, refreshing the landscaping, adding lighting, and maintaining cleanliness to achieve an inviting exterior.
The curb appeal of a home, or lack thereof, could make or break a showing experience for potential buyers. They start assessing the value and desirability of a house from the moment they get to the property, so ensuring that your client's home shows at its best is invaluable to both the buyer and the seller, and doesn't have to be expensive.
Here’s to closing deals and opening doors!
