You are no doubt already aware of the basic principles of home staging, but do you know that a similar technique exists for the exterior of the house? Let’s take a closer look at curb appeal.
When it comes to selling our property, we all know that it is a good idea to revamp its appearance to make it more appealing to potential buyers. It is indeed important to stand out in a flourishing housing market where there is a proliferation of new builds. Has your house been on the market for a while and hasn’t found a taker?
Try applying the principles of curb appeal! Here are a few ideas … and they are all budget-friendly!
1- Remove Visual Clutter
A bike leaning against the garage, a tired trampoline, garden tools piled in a corner, a forgotten pair of boots… Such clutter is distracting to buyers. Put away what you can to give your yard a streamlined look.
2- Divide the Backyard into Zones
People should be able to imagine themselves taking advantage of the summer weather in their new home; show them how much they could enjoy themselves in your house. You could, for example, create a lounging area with couches or by hanging a hammock beneath a tree. If your budget is limited, a small table prettily set for two might do the trick.
3- Put Your Green Thumb to Work
All trees, bushes and hedges should be at their best during a sale. Make sure they are all well trimmed. Additionally, neglected flower beds and containers are not a good sign for buyers: they will take this is a reflection of the state of the inside of the house. This is why you should carry out a thorough cleaning. And don’t forget that a well maintained and freshly cut lawn is always appealing! If you can, water and treat it so that it stays a vibrant green.
4- Check the Gutters
Gutters are often ignored; we forget they’re there. But buyers might notice them. If they see that the gutters are clogged or damaged, they may not feel like going to the notary. Take out the ladder and clean out the gutters and downspouts. Then, make them shine by wiping them down with a rag.
5- Welcome with Light
If someone is coming to view the house in the evening, set the mood with lighting. From the street, your house will look more welcoming if you add different layers of light: in your flower beds, along the stone walkway, on either side of the front door, at the base of a tall tree, etc.
6- Be Mindful of Curious Onlookers
Have you placed a “For Sale” sign in front of your house? Passers-by may be tempted to have a peek inside your property from the street. It’s even easier to get a glimpse in the evening! Take this into consideration. Draw the curtains in rooms that have not been updated or that are cluttered. And make the most of indoor lighting to create a cozy atmosphere.
7- Make Things More Intimate
Most people don’t like the idea of neighbours having a view into their yard while they are using it. If you have a lounging or eating area, enhance it with privacy screens. This can be wood panels, semitransparent drapes, large pots containing tall plants, etc.
8- Paint the Door and Window Frames
It is important that your home’s front door be eye-catching. Peeling paint and a loose door knob are repellent! The same thing applies to window frames. It may be a quite a long and backbreaking chore, but repairing and repainting may work to your advantage.
9- Make the Shed More Attractive
If you have a shed, make sure it looks smart. Carry out repairs and repaint it if necessary. If it’s in really bad shape, you may want to consider demolishing it.
10- Enliven the Exterior with Decor
Now that your house’s outside space is clean and organized, all that’s left to do is add some decorative items. What’s really on trend this year is the welcome mat: there is a vast array of textures and colours to choose from. Flower containers are, of course, indispensable accessories. Winter or summer, add birch logs for a more contemporary look. You can also add some pretty bird houses, door ornaments or comfortable ottomans in the yard.
These tips and tricks should help you get buyers’ attention! For more ideas on how to make your home more attractive, ask your RE/MAX real estate broker.