Enhance Your Home's Curb Appeal

A home with curb appeal gives buyers a positive first impression and draws them inside to see what else the home has to offer. As we all know, first impressions are impactful, especially on a potential buyer's decision to purchase a home. So, make curb appeal a priority by following these simple suggestions:

• Tidy Up the Front Entry: Make sure the front entry to your home is clean and welcoming. Prune back bushes that may be hanging over the sidewalk or blocking doors or windows. Remove spider webs, insects, or other debris that may have attached itself to your front door or siding. Put a fresh coat of paint or stain on your door and frame. Fix sagging screens and faulty entry door hardware, sweep away dirt, lay ou

  

  t a welcoming door mat, and add a bit of color (like a pot of spring flowers or a tasteful door decoration.) Also, make sure your doorbell and entry light are in working order.

• Fix the Roof: A roof that shows signs of neglect or disrepair is one of the biggest turnoffs to buyers. Be sure to replace missing shingles or roofing tiles. Also clean off any moss or algae that might be growing on your shingles and remove any tree limbs that come in direct contact with the roof. Having a roofing professional check out the roof for any other needed repairs is also a good idea.

• Take Time to Landscape and Clean Up Your Yard: The look of your landscaping can tell a person a lot about your house. Re-seed or fertilize the lawn if necessary and make sure it is mowed regularly and kept weed free. Prune your trees and bushes and remove any dead branches or leaves. To increase the visual appeal of your home, add fresh mulch in your bedding areas and plant new flowers or shrubs. Finally, remove any "no trespassing" or "beware of dog" signs and place trash cans and debris out of sight.

• Wash the Windows: Clean your windows inside and out. This will not only improve the look of the exterior of the home, but will affect the view from interior as well.

• Clear Driveways & Walkways: Fix any major cracks or raised areas of cement in your driveway or walkway. Prune back bushes and trees that are blocking these areas, especially along the pathway to your entry door. Also, keep your driveways and walkways free of trash cans, vehicles, toys, debris and other items that clutter the view of the front of the home.

Remember, when it comes time sell your home, the first thing potential buyers see is the outside. Making repairs and improving the curb appeal of your home will attract buyers and likely help your home sell for a higher price. If you can't fit the cost of all of these suggestions into your budget, focus on the items that you can.

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