Looking To Sell Your Home? (part 3)

Tip #3: Curb Appeal

Have you ever judged something or someone based on outward appearance? I think if we are being honest, the answer will be yes. Now whether or not our initial impression turned out to be correct, the fact still remains that we made a judgment based on no more than appearance. Sometimes that tattooed-biker turns out to be a teddy bear with a heart of gold, and sometimes that house down the street with weeds and paint peeling off is immaculate inside.

In our reality, most buyers will drive right by a home if it does not appeal aesthetically to their senses. Now, in our business, if the outside is in shambles, it's a pretty good indicator of what the inside will look like - but not always. Wouldn't you want to capture all buyers' attention and at least pique their interest to come inside? To do this you MUST have curb appeal, but what exactly does this mean?

•If you have a lawn in the front yard, make sure it is mowed frequently and looks green. If you have bushes and trees, make sure these are pruned.

•If you can, flowers always dress up a yard. Go down to your local nursery and see what is in season. In most instances, they can even help out with design and installation. If you are located in central Phoenix I would recommend either Whittfil Nursery (www.whitfillnursery.com) or Shady Lane Nursery (602-997-1901).

•Time to clean the outside of your home. This would include cleaning your windows, power washing your siding (if applicable), and if your budget will allow – a fresh coat of paint. Remember, these small investments will reap big dividends.

•Subtraction leads to addition. Sometimes it’s what we remove that makes the biggest improvement. That half-dead, diseased tree in your front yard will not look better by trimming a few branches – take it out. Those overgrown bushes up against your home are hiding your home. Remove them and expose your gorgeous home. The few items above are not a huge monetary expense/investment but you WILL reap the rewards. In fact, most of the aforementioned advice comes to down to a little of your time and labor, and don’t you think your home deserves this? I do.