Clean windows, new paint, clean out cabinet and closets, freshly cleaned carpets, and shiny new faucets all make the inside of your home sparkle as potential buyers look around. But you aren’t finished there. Before the buyer steps into the home, they will need to see the outside first. Your prospective buyer’s first impression of your home will from the window of their car as they pull up. So let’s make it a nice one. Walk across the street from your home and take a good look at your house. Check out your neighbors homes to see how they compare. If yours already looks nicer, then that puts you ahead.
Landscape - Is the landscape around you home comparable for the neighborhood? If not, buy a few bushes and plant them. Try to find an area for flowers. Purchase some mature colorful flowers and plant them. Flowers add a very nice touch to any home. They add a splash of vibrancy and color, creating a favorable first impression. You should mow your lawn weekly, making sure that it is evenly cut. Freshly edge around your lawn and water regularly. Try to get rid of any brown spots. If there are any problems with the lawn, take care of them before working on the inside of your home. This will give it a chance to grow if you need to re-sod any areas. Plus, you might want to give fertilizer enough time to be effective. Don’t forget to rake up any loose leaves and grass cuttings.
Exterior – Your biggest decision for the exterior of your home is whether you want to paint or not. When you looked at your home from across the street, did it look tired and faded? If you thought it did, a paint job may be in order. It's a very good investment that really spruces up the appearance. This will add to the value of your home, hopefully helping you to pull in a larger offer. Decide on a color that will fit in well in your neighborhood. The color you choose also depends on the style of your home. Certain shades of yellow bring out the best response from buyers, whether the trim or the whole home. For your roof, if you know it is old and leaks, replace it. If you don’t repair it, you are required to disclose it to the buyer, and they buyer will want a new roof. Or you can wait and see what a home inspector says. You don’t want to spend unnecessary money.
Back Yard – Your back yard should be neat and in order. If you have a pool or spa, keep it freshly maintained and clean. If you own a dog make sure to clean up after it.
Front Door & Entryway – You’ll want to make sure your door is especially beautiful, since it is the entryway into the house. Make the door fixture shiny by polishing it. Refinish or repaint the door if it needs it. Remove all of your personal things, such as plaques, doormats, name plates, etc. You want the potential buyer to visualize the home as his. Double check that the lock works easily and the key fits properly. When a homebuyer comes to visit your home, the agent uses the key from the lock box to unlock the door. A difficult lock can cause a bad impression.
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