| First
impressions are just as important in real estate as anything
other aspect of life; if not more important. Many prospective
homebuyers will size up a property within just a few seconds
of viewing it! That doesn't even get them in the door.
What this means
to real estate investors is the importance of adding curb
appeal. Sprucing up the exterior of the property to give
it that much desired special touch doesn't have to be expensive
or a lot of hard work-it does mean that you need to know
what buyers are looking for when they first see a property.
Take a look below at a few of the simple and inexpensive
ways you can easily add curb appeal to any property.
1. Make sure
the windows and gutters are clean out. Overflowing gutters
and grimy windows really detract from the appeal of any
property.
2. If the home
has vinyl siding; consider pressure washing it. A pressure
washer can be rented fairly inexpensively at a number of
home improvement stores and equipment rental shops. The
small cost can make a significant difference in the overall
appearance of the property.
3. Pay attention
to the landscaping. This can be one of the most important
aspects of adding curb appeal to your property. If the lawn
isn't attractive, or looks like it would require too much
work to get it into shape, many buyers will keep on driving.
-
To create a great looking lawn, water it regularly and
keep weeds down with a spray.
- Pay
close attention to the walkway and sidewalk, where weeds
tend to creep before you realize it.
- If
the lawn has patchy areas, seriously consider laying down
some sod. While this can be a bit on the expensive side,
it will definitely increase your profit margin when it
comes time to sell.
4. Flowers can
really add maximum curb appeal and they are extremely easy
and cheap and can cinch a sell. Consider placing an attractive
earthenware container of yellow flowers next to the steps
leading up to the house or the front door.
This lends a
welcoming appearance to the home. A few flower beds placed
in front of the house, set with mixed flowers in bright
shades and trimmed with an attractive edging also does wonders
to spruce up a property.
5. Some of the
most important aspects of adding curb appeal are incredibly
inexpensive.
- Paint
or replace the mailbox, if necessary.
- Add
a brass door knocker or attractive wreath to the front
door.
- If
there are not exterior lighting fixtures, install some
to give the home the look of a safe harbor.
Finally,
take the time to stand back from the property and view it
objectively. Think about how a prospective buyer would see
the property. Does the home look welcoming, pleasant and
charming or does it make you want to run in the other direction?
Make notes of what you see and get to work! |