First impressions are rarely accurate. They are, however, often relied on — never more so than in real estate.
The notion of selling a home has individuals forever redefining their interiors, trying to make each corner appealing; but too often do they ignore their exteriors, abandoning their curbs for more accessible walls. And this… is a mistake.
Buyers demand perfection and this extends even to the outside of homes. What all sellers — including you — must remember is that the yard must match the living room:
One: Street Views. There’s far more to your house than the interior. The street beyond instead must be claimed. Understand that potential buyers will view your property with concern if the pavement that greets them is unkempt. Remove all trash, limbs and leaves from the immediate area. Be certain to wash away any oil traces or other unsightly stains. Ask neighbors to park their cars away from your drive, freeing it from any obstruction. And trim all grass along sidewalks or curb, making sure to leave no weeds or unwanted grass.
Two: Patching Problems. Your home isn’t a tribute to perfection. This is a truth you must admit. There are little cracks along the walls, the weak slides of siding. Foundations have settled again and again; and the result is a collection of small worries. These can no longer be ignored. They must instead be repaired — fix all shingles and loose planks; straighten that crooked mailbox; replace broken porch lights; and free gutters from the soggy remains of leaves to ensure they still function.
Three: Color Relief. Paint isn’t permanent — it must endure storms and snow, the unrelenting heat. The elements slam against it constantly, eventually wear the colors down. It’s vital therefore to reenergize them when it’s time to sale. Consider panting the entire exterior of the house (use professional aid if you’re inexperienced with this). If that proves to be too expensive, choose instead to redo the door, window trims and any other decorative elements.
Curb appeal can’t be denied. Choose to reshape your home from the inside out.