When a person chooses to sell their home, the agent handling the transaction may suggest improving its curb appeal before putting it on the market. The home’s exterior is the first thing a person sees when they pull up, so its importance can never be discounted. Why does curb appeal matter so much?
Understanding Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is the exterior design and features of a home. This appeal is what gives a person their first impression of a home. If they pull up and see weeds in the front yard and broken windows, they may assume the interior is also in bad shape and continue to the next residence on the list.
When the home is well cared for, the flowers in the front are blooming, and the composite decking materials are clean and in excellent shape, they will want to see more.
Curb appeal includes the architectural features of the home and any capital improvements the owner has made. Potential buyers look at the paint or siding, the roof, and the windows. They also consider the landscaping, lighting, porches, and doors. Maintenance and material quality also impact curb appeal, so a homeowner must ensure they don’t overlook anything when completing these tasks.
Why is Curb Appeal Important?
Most National Association of REALTORS members say outstanding curb appeal attracts buyers. They encourage sellers to improve curb appeal before selling their homes.
Fortunately, 100 percent of tree care and landscape maintenance costs are typically recouped when the home sells, and many other upgrades provide an excellent return on investment. Surprisingly, sellers often enjoy the house more when they invest in curb appeal.
Three-quarters of homeowners say they want to be home more once this work is done, while 59 percent say they enjoy the home more.
The Cost of Improving a Home’s Curb Appeal
Homeowners may worry about the cost of making needed improvements. The cost of improving a home’s exterior varies by age, condition, and size. The size of the property also plays a role in the cost. Material costs must be considered, and homeowners must decide whether to do the work themselves or hire someone to do it for them. Specific jobs, such as replacing a roof or installing new siding, should always be left to the professionals.
Brick and Batten reports exterior painting will cost, on average, $2,800, while trim painting will set a homeowner back around $235. Home landscaping costs approximately $3,240 on average. Adding a new deck or porch or installing a new fence will cost more. Homeowners can work with their realtors to determine which projects will provide the best return on investment while attracting more buyers.
Improving the Curb Appeal of a Home at Little Cost
A homeowner with a tight budget may be discouraged and feel they will never sell their home unless they spend a lot of money fixing the exterior. That doesn’t have to be the case. There are many inexpensive projects a person can complete that will boost curb appeal, and the average person can take on these tasks without needing professional help.
Spring Cleaning
Homeowners need to thoroughly clean the exterior of the home at least once each year. Many people do this in the spring as the weather begins to warm up. Projects to complete during this cleaning include scrubbing the front door and exterior trim and power washing the siding and walkways. The outer portions of the windows should also be cleaned at this time. Homeowners should walk around their property in the fall to see if these tasks must be completed again before winter arrives.
Don’t overlook the yard when cleaning, either. Spend time picking up stray toys or items that may have blown into the yard and gotten stuck in trees or shrubs during the winter. Remove any eyesores before moving on to the yardwork.
Complete Yardwork
Many people mow the lawn each week. They may weed flowerbeds but put off raking up debris or pruning trees. There is no need to have an award-winning flower garden in the front yard to improve curb appeal. Clean and maintain what is already present, and the property’s curb appeal will improve. Set up a maintenance schedule to follow and work on additional tasks, such as re-seeding the lawn or aerating it, as needed.
Update the Entryway
Imagine painting your front door and watching your home’s value increase thousands of dollars. Many homeowners are shocked to learn that a black front door can add $6,500 to their property assessment. However, to add flair to the exterior, a person might want to paint the front door a bright or bold color. Install new door hardware, add a porch sign or wreath, and invest in a new doormat. Once the entryway updates are complete, the entire home will look different.
Add a Few Decorations
Add a few decorations and some window boxes to spruce up the landscape. Invest in porch and patio furniture and pick up some window boxes and garden decor. A few pieces go a long way, so don’t overdo it. Try different combinations to find the sweet spot. Install new lighting or paint existing fixtures for an updated look. Pathway lights are an excellent addition to any landscape, and look into string lights for the porch or backyard.
Don’t Overlook the Driveway
The driveway contributes to a property’s overall appeal. Fix minor cracks or have a professional complete this work. If possible, have the driveway resealed to make it look its best. Consider planting flowers or lining the driveway’s edges with stones, and include pathway lights to make the property appear more welcoming after dark.
Conclusion
Curb appeal is personal. No two homes or neighborhoods will have the same look. Homeowners should prioritize improvements they can enjoy while living in the home that will repay them when they sell it. Ensure the improvements blend in with the overall feel of the neighborhood so the house doesn’t become an eyesore. The money spent on these home improvement projects is well invested because the homeowner can enjoy them knowing the money has not been wasted.
