First impressions are important. In fact, in the real estate business, first impressions can make or break a sale. In fact, according to a study done by the National Association of Realtors, more than 63 percent of potential homebuyers will visit a home that they see and like online. And what is it that they will see and appeal to them? The exterior. That’s right. That quaint snapshot of a home’s exterior: front entry, sidewalk, yard and driveway, everything that you can quickly and very easily make into invitations to buy your home. What follows are five ways to enhance the curb appeal of your home.
Start online
More than 88 percent of homebuyers begin their house shopping process online. For this reason, you should make sure that the pictures online that represent your home are fabulous. Check to see when the best time of day would be to shoot these pictures, then take advantage of it. For example, you will want to avoid noon-time pictures to avoid harsh overhead light. Instead, try evenings to make lighting softer.
Think like a buyer
If you were a buyer, would you want to buy your home? It’s a simple question, of course, but one that sets people to thinking. For example, would you be interested in buying your home if the paint was old and peeling? Or if there was junk piled in the front yard? These are all things that affect a new buyer’s decision to take a closer look at a home.
The roof can always be improved
Many people don’t give a lot of thought to the roof of their home, but one of the first things new buyers think of is how old the roof is and how long it will be before it needs replacing. Is it missing shingles or is it dingy and streaked? There might be a need for a new roof before you can sell, or it might just need a washing.
Think bright and happy
Are the little extras in good shape and do they add something to your home’s personality? Take the street number and mailbox, for example. If they are shiny, new, and compliment your home’s personality, you can be sure that it will add to the curb appeal of your home.
Get a second opinion
After we live in a home for a period of time, we can often become blind to problems there might be with it. That’s natural. Whether you see problems or not, why not ask an objective third party to take a look at your home? Then take their suggestions seriously. You’ll be glad you did.