Five Tips to add Curb Appeal to your Home
Adding curb appeal to your home can be easy and inexpensive. Experience has shown that the five changes that add the most value are as follows:
Tip 1: Wash
Before you start painting, first give your house a good outside cleaning. Wash the walls, and paving to reveal your homes true colors. A simple bucket with soapy water and a long bristle (soft) brush accomplishes wonders. Wash the windows inside and outside and get rid of any lurking spiders in the corners. Remember the garage door and any outside buildings.
Tip 2: Paint
Next step is paint: a freshly painted house stands out from the competition but be wary when you pick colors. Rather stick with the neutrals or something that fits with your neighborhood. Bright colors may not appeal to all and can be off-putting for valuators.
Tip 3: Roof
Consider the condition of your roof. Does it need paint? Perhaps there is some missing shingles or curly bits? Check the gutters and chimney for damage while you’re at it. None of these will help with curb appeal. Appraisers will mark you down severely if a roof is not in top condition. Sometimes a simple cleaning will do (do get a professional in for this task) or consider a complete remodeling, which comes in at just under $19,000 according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2014 Cost vs Value report.
Tip 4: Lawn
The importance of a good-looking front yard cannot be over emphasized. It is after all part of the first impression when looking at a property. Mow and water the lawn regularly to create a lush-looking paradise with leafy seasonal plants and flowers to add color and texture to the curb side view of your home. Adding some red-brown mulch around shrubs can add a rich luster to any garden and benefits the soil’s water retention.
Tip 5: Color & Comfort
Last but certainly not least in the curb appeal builder tip list is adding some color. A brightly painted door, or some lovely flowers around the mailbox can put a buyer or appraiser in a better mood and will have an effect (albeit subconscious) on how they approach the house and its value. Adding a lovely couch or three to the porch will show that people enjoy loving here and it looks inviting.
House viewing is often a bit akin to speed dating. Not much time and so much to see. Ensure that your property catches the eye with these tried and tested tips.