Curb Appeal - First Impressions Really Do Count

With the number of decorating and home renovation programs on television these days, the words curb apeal have become common decorating jargon.   For anyone considering listing their home for sale this spring, preparing the outside is just as crucial as preparing the inside.


HGTV.CA  has some great before and after curb appeal slide presentations. Curb appeal in real estate terms refers to the exterior look of a property from the street curb. Curb appeal is a pleasing look upon drive-up.

In order to sell your home you have to get buyers in the door. It's very important for a seller to see the front of their property with "buyer's eyes". What is the first thing you notice when you drive up? How does it compare to other homes in the neighbourhood? Are you attracted enough to want to see inside the home? Here are some tips for some "exterior staging".

1. Take a good look at the property from the street. Look at it from 3 different angles. Can you see the house? Trees and shrubs should be trimmed if not.

2.Is the paint on the home or window frames in good shape? Is the colour neutral? The same goes for eaves and soffits. How about the front door and garage door? If the garage door can't take another coat of paint, replace it with a modern door in a neutral colour. A new front door can make all the difference also.

3. Zero in on the front of the house. Simple items such as a new mailbox and new house numbers and exterior lights can add a huge return for little investment.

4. Look at the driveway and walkway. Are there oil stains or cracks? Is the walkway clear of weeds or overgrown branches. Are the tiles or cement cracked?  Make sure garbage cans, basketball nets, woodpiles, etc. are moved elsewhere.

5. Is there a fence, deck or front porch in need of repair? Call a professional in if you don't have time to tackle these items.

  6. How do the gardens look? The lawn? Are they healthy and green and free of weeds? Add more plants to the garden or in containers or pots. Add some solar lighting for ambiance in the evening.

7. Is the front door well defined? Is there a porch or deck? Make a cosy outdoor sitting area. A couple of welcoming chairs. And don't forget the welcome mat.

8. Make sure the doorbell works and there are no broken window panes. Don't forget you don't have a second chance to make a first impression.

 Curb apeal is all about first impressions. If you follow these steps and make your property inviting to buyers you are well on your way to a SALE. Does Your Home Have Curb Appeal? Here is a fun  quiz from Style At Home Magazine for you to take to see how your curb appeal is. 

http://www.styleathome.com/homes/exteriors/quiz-does-your-home-have-curb-appeal/q/26/