May 19, 2009

Getting Ready to Sell Your Home

Curb Appeal

This is the first impression, period. In all the times I've looked for homes to buy, there have been several that I've just kept on driving when I didn't like what I saw outside the home. I'm sure other buyers are like this too. If the outisde of your home is messy, full of clutter, dirty, and weeds everywhere, people will assume the inside of the home is just as bad.

By making the first impression a positive one, the buyer will seek other positive aspects of the home to reinforce their initial impression.

Clearing The Clutter:

  • Keep grass mowed and edges trimmed regularly (weekly).
  • Pick up garden equipment, kids toys and empty clay pots.
  • Hide trash cans out of view.
  • Trees should be trimmed so that the bottom six feet is visible.
  • Clear away bushes and trees to let some light in the house.
  • Power wash the walkway and driveway.
  • Neatly store children's toys in bins in the garage or side of the house.

Consider doing the following things to add more appeal:

  • Add a large pot of bright flowers, and new doormat.
  • Consider updating lighting or adding walk up lights.
  • Plant, plant, plant! Flowers work miracles in the front yard.
  • If you have a larger porch, consider a bench or rockers.
  • Fresh mulch should be added to beds for a clean, manicured look.
  • Consider hanging flower pots and colorful pots on steps and around the deck/patio.

Within 15 seconds a buyer will develop an attitude toward your house -- either positive or negative -- that they will be looking to reinforce throughout the rest of the home tour. Make the best of their first 15 seconds!!

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