First impressions matter. When selling a home, one of the most overlooked yet critical factors is the appearance of the exterior. Potential buyers often make judgments about a property before they even step inside. A well-maintained exterior suggests a home that’s been cared for, increasing the likelihood of a faster sale and possibly evens a higher price.
So, how do you ensure your home’s exterior stands out and creates the right impression?
Here are 5 key steps you can take to make your home’s exterior as appealing as possible
1. Exterior House Cleaning: Start With a Clean Slate
The first and most important step in prepping your home exterior for sale is giving it a good clean. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime build up on the outside of your home, making it look neglected. That’s the last thing you want when buyers are trying to picture themselves living there.
Consider these cleaning tasks:
- Power washing – Power wash house can remove years of grime from siding, driveways, decks, and patios. This instantly freshens up the look of your home.
- Window cleaning – Clean windows let in more light and make your home feel more inviting. Ensure both the inside and outside are spotless.
- Gutter cleaning – Clogged gutters aren’t just unsightly; they can also signal potential maintenance issues. Clear them out to avoid turning off buyers.
- Roof cleaning – If your roof is covered in moss or dirt, it can give the impression of disrepair. Therefore it is recommended to keep your roof clean to keep your home well maintained.
- Clean the yard – Rake leaves, remove debris, and tidy up any scattered outdoor furniture to keep everything looking neat.
A clean exterior makes the house shine and creates a positive first impression before buyers even reach the front door. While you can do this yourself, investing in a professional exterior house cleaning service is the best way to go to ensure you make the perfect impression.
2. Refresh Paint Where Needed
Once the exterior is clean, you might notice some areas where the paint has faded or chipped. Addressing these issues is another essential step in prepping your home for sale.
A fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective way to make your home look attractive. You don’t necessarily need to repaint the entire house, but focus on areas that are looking worn out, such as:
- Old roof
- The front door
- Window trims
- Fences or gates
- Garage doors
- Shutters
If you do choose to repaint, stick to neutral colors. Bold choices might turn off potential buyers, while neutral tones appeal to a wider audience.
3. Take Care of Your Landscaping
Landscaping plays a significant role in creating a positive first impression. Buyers are drawn to homes that look well-kept, and your lawn, plants, and trees play a big part in that.
Some key landscaping tips to consider:
- Trim bushes and hedges – Overgrown plants can obscure the home and make it seem unkempt. Trim them back to create a neat, clean appearance.
- Mow the lawn regularly – A well-manicured lawn makes your home look polished. Keep it trimmed until the sale is complete.
- Add fresh mulch – If you have flower beds or plant areas, fresh mulch can make them look more defined and tidy.
- Plant flowers – Adding a few potted plants or flowers can brighten up the entrance of your home and make it feel welcoming.
- Remove weeds – Keep your garden beds and walkways weed-free to avoid any eyesores.
Good landscaping can give your home that polished look and add significant appeal.
4. Make Minor Repairs
Take the time to walk around your home and look for any minor repairs that might need attention. While they may seem small, these details can make a big difference to buyers who are inspecting your home closely.
Here are some common issues to fix:
- Fix cracks in the driveway or walkway – Cracked cement can signal age and lack of maintenance. Repair these areas to create a smoother appearance.
- Replace damaged light fixtures – Outdoor lighting is important for curb appeal, especially if buyers are driving by in the evening. Ensure all bulbs are working, and replace any rusty or outdated fixtures.
- Repair loose or broken gutters – Gutters that are hanging or in poor condition can be an instant turnoff. These need to be properly aligned and secured.
- Patch up any holes in siding – If you have vinyl or wood siding, check for any holes or damaged sections. Buyers notice things like this, and they can impact their perception of your home’s upkeep.
Buyers are looking for homes that won’t require immediate attention, so these minor fixes help present a “move-in ready” appearance.
5. Spruce Up Your Front Door Area
The front door is one of the first things buyers will focus on, so make it stand out in a positive way. A little effort here can go a long way toward creating that welcoming vibe.
Think about these upgrades:
- Repaint the front door – A fresh coat of paint can make your door pop. Opt for a classic color like black or navy blue to create a sophisticated look.
- Replace the door hardware – Old, tarnished door handles and locks can drag down the look of an otherwise lovely door. Swap them out for something modern and sleek.
- Add a new welcome mat – A clean, new mat makes the entrance look inviting and well cared for.
- Decorate with plants – A couple of planters with flowers or greenery on either side of the door create an attractive entrance.
- Ensure the house number is visible – Buyers need to find your home easily. Make sure the house number is clear and readable, even from the street.
The front door is the first thing buyers interact with, so make sure it leaves a good impression. Getting your home’s exterior in top shape can make all the difference when it comes to selling quickly and for the best price. With a little time and effort, you can transform your home’s curb appeal and create a lasting impression that buyers won’t forget.