Do not overlook the strength of
strong curb appeal
—A pleasing and well-kept exterior appearance can boost your home’s value by up to 7 percent, as stated by one source.
real estate study
From the University of Texas at Arlington. However, researchers suggest multiplying that figure by two during a sluggish market.
A nicely kept outside area doesn’t just make the property more appealing; it also indicates to potential purchasers that the house has been properly maintained, according to what was said.
Cindy Morrison
, a real estate agent in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
“The attractiveness of a property from the street has always been one of the key initial impressions that can captivate prospective purchasers—a true ‘wow factor’ upon first glance,” she explains.
On the other hand, if your house doesn’t have good street appeal, you might discourage potential purchasers, leading to lower bids and extending the period your property remains for sale. In turn, this increases the leverage buyers have during negotiations, as pointed out.
Cristal Clarke
, a real estate agent in Montecito, California. Sadly, your neighbor’s
poor curb appeal
Can also adversely affect the worth of your property as well.
Up next, real estate professionals highlight the most significant errors in curb appeal that might be decreasing your property’s worth and complicating the process of selling your home.
1. Overgrown Landscaping
Unkempt lawns, overgrown
trees
, and overgrown gardens convey a sense of neglect to potential buyers, according to Clarke. She suggests ensuring your yard is in excellent condition by eliminating any
dead plants
, pruning trees, and rejuvenating
garden beds
With vibrant flowers or new mulch. Developing a well-groomed, verdant exterior space is essential for appealing to potential purchasers, she explains.
Additionally, if you have large shrubs that are obscuring your house, consider replacing them with plants that showcase your home rather than camouflaging it, as suggested.
Cara Ameer
a real estate agent at Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty.
2. Lack of Landscaping
An empty yard featuring little vegetation might render the property cold and unwelcoming, particularly for premium homes where outdoor spaces are seen as a continuation of the house’s architecture, according to Clarke.
Incorporating trees, shrubs, or floral gardens can help mellow the look of your house and create a warmer welcome for visitors.
You might want to think about including
low-maintenance plants
To ensure the yard appears approachable for prospective purchasers, advises Bonnie Stein, an associate real estate agent in Westchester County, New York.
3. Flaking Paint or a Dull exterior
Flaking paint or a dull exterior can detract from the beauty of a home and make it seem uncared for, according to Clarke.
Painting the exterior
Undertaking renovations on your residence is a costly undertaking, and should you choose to proceed down this path, it’s wise to be aware of what you’re getting into.
paint colors
Can assist you in selling your home for a higher price.
If you’re hesitant about making such a substantial commitment, particularly if you doubt whether the hues will connect with potential purchasers, Clarke suggests at minimum giving the front door, shutters, or siding a new coat of paint. Such modest updates can greatly enhance your home’s street-facing allure and provide it with a revitalized appearance.
4. Incorrect House Numbering or Obsolete Mailboxes
The house number on your residence is extremely crucial for
curb appeal
Because these are the figures that prospective buyers will prioritize initially when searching for your property during an open house or viewing. Should the address numerals be worn out or peeling, consider updating them with new ones that align with your
home’s architectural style
Is a simple method to enhance your home’s exterior attractiveness, according to Ameer.
Similarly, if your mailbox is outdated, rusty, or beginning to tilt, you ought to replace it, according to Ameer. Property owners come up with various reasons for this replacement.
stylish mailbox options
to select from options that enhance their home decor, including contemporary styles that match well with planters as well as classic, envelope-style mailboxes.
5. Political Posters
If you’re selling a house during the election period, steer clear of displaying banners or candidate signs that reveal your political leanings.
Larry DeVardo
A sales agent at Coldwell Banker Realty in Hillsdale, New Jersey mentions.
“In this atmosphere, any topic with political overtones will stir emotions and could potentially alienate half of your possible customers,” he warns.
6. Cracked Driveways
If you’re planning to put your house up for sale, it’s wise to give your
driveway
and
garage
thorough power washing, remove any
weeds
those appearing in the fissures, and make an effort to remove any oil spots on the driveway.
“Ashir says that old driveways and pathways with fissures that appear grimy and have never undergone power washing can similarly create a poor image. A potential purchaser might be deterred by the state of the driveway and decide against exploring further, despite the house being completely renovated within.”
If the driveway is in bad condition, you might need to consider full replacement or provide a credit to the buyer so they can decide on the appropriate course of action.
driveway material
they want to install.
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