Whether it’s a casual drive by or an online photo – your home’s first impression and curb appeal are key to selling your home. Not selling anytime soon? Updating your home’s curb appeal will still win points with your friends, family, and neighbors.
Ready to spruce up your homes' exterior? Try these top 3 tips that make a big difference!
1. Give Your Home a Wash
Mildew, dirt, and even moss can build up on the siding of your home, making it look old and dingy. With the careful use of a pressure washer, you can refresh your home for free in only a few hours. Experts explain some of the biggest threats to siding include:
- Dirt and yard debris
- Birds and other small animals
- Mildew from moisture
- Spiderwebs
- Pollen on the wind
In addition to the siding and exterior of your home, dirty and smudged windows can negatively affect your curb appeal. To wash windows effectively, have one person wash the inside while the other cleans the outside. For a practical cleaning solution, try a mix of half vinegar and half warm water.
2. Update Your Front Door and Windows
New windows and doors can completely transform your home's look – and it’s a great investment with a high return when it comes to your homes resale value. Not only does installing new windows and doors improve your home's curb appeal, but it also saves on energy costs. Many older windows may have air leaks or less energy-efficient glass. Your heating or cooling system may work in overdrive to keep your home comfortable. Look for windows with an ENERGY STAR or NFRC label for energy-efficient windows.
Windows and doors come in various styles that can change the property's personality. Windows tend to match the architecture of a home. You can upgrade your windows to fit a more historical aesthetic or modernize your home with new windows.
When you are trying to sell, the age of your windows, siding, and doors can change a person's mind about buying the home. Buyers want a home that looks new, that will not need repairs in the near future and that can effectively keep the indoors safe and comfortable. Not ready for such a big project? That’s okay! Small tasks can make all the difference. Repairing cracked windows and seals, replacing old or broken door knobs, or painting the front door can create a positive first impression.
3. Revive Your Landscape
To create a charming outdoor space, focus on the landscape. Start with the lawn: healthy, trimmed grass makes a big difference! Next, consider the types of plants you could add to enhance your yard. Bright annuals make for a great contrast to your yard, but perennial shrubs return year after year and are often low maintenace. But be careful of the size and placement of your new plants! For example, if you have a small home, you may not want large plants that overwhelm your house. Or any trees or shrubs too close to the foundation. Looking for a quick fix? Even adding a pop of colors with planters near your entryway can create a warm welcome.
Bonus Tips: While focusing on plants, remember to add adequate lighting to your home's exterior. Garden lights not only improve your home's security but also accent your landscaping efforts. Additionally, spruce up your exterior by fixing or painting broken fences, trellises, or other garden structures.
Whether or not you plan to sell your home - curb appeal matters. When you make a positive first impression, people are more likely to remember your home as they tour properties, and it boosts your home’s value. Plus, your friends and family will enjoy a warm welcome year round.
When you’re ready to sell your greater Seattle home, realtor Cindy Kelly offers exceptional concierge-level service to maximize your selling price. Call (425) 260-2017 to learn how we can help you sell your home!