5 Simple Ways to Give Your Home Curb Appeal

According to Lisa Thompson, REALTOR with Century 21 Bessette Realty, exterior upgrades consistently rank among the best home improvement projects for their strong return on investment. “That’s because many of these strategies are fairly simple and relatively affordable solutions. While some homes may benefit from more extensive and expensive updates, like repaving a damaged driveway or replacing old windows, there are many simple, low-cost updates that you can tackle yourself.“

Thompson  says the first step is to assess your home’s appearance from a home buyer’s perspective. Imagine that you are seeing it for the first time, and then make a list of the characteristics that stand out immediately, and which ones you want to highlight.

To help get you started, Thompson suggests taking a closer, critical look at these areas:

A dimly lit walkway is not only dangerous, but also uninviting. Pathway and landscape lighting products are available in a wide variety of designs and price ranges to add instant visual appeal. Check all exterior fixtures and bulbs to make sure they are working,

The power of paint cannot be overstated. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, garage door and window trim can make a huge difference. However, if your front door has seen a lot of abuse over the years and is damaged beyond repair, it might be time to have it replaced. A new door is a guaranteed win when it comes to instant curb appeal, especially if you select a bold color.

The effects of rainfall from the winter months likely means an accumulation of dirt that has set in on your driveway, front steps, walkways, doors, windows and vinyl siding. Invest in (or rent) a high-powered pressure washer to clean these exterior areas with relative ease. Windows are also a common focal point for prospective buyers, so consider hiring a professional window cleaner to remove streaks, dirt and dust.

Having a well-maintained lawn is a critical part of curb appeal. The National Association of Realtors studied the outdoor features that are most appealing to prospective buyers, and having a nice lawn was at the top of the list, so get out the lawnmower, edger and fertilizer before you list your home. Trim any overgrown shrubs and trees and consider filling in any empty spots with new plantings, especially if you can add a pop of bright color.

Make sure the entrance to your home creates a warm welcome. A bold door color captures attention. Consider black, steel gray, and red as on-trend colors. If the door is warped, rusted or cracked, replace it. Replace old or damaged light fixtures in the entry as well. Add a fresh welcome mat, a seasonal wreath and some bright potted plants, and people will be eager to come inside.

“An experienced real estate agent can help you assess your home’s curb appeal and provide suggestions for priority improvements to help you sell your home sooner, rather than later,” says Thompson.

For more information about adding curb appeal to sell your home, call CENTURY 21 Bessette at (33) 474-2185.