5 Tips for Adding Curb Appeal and Value to Your Home

A home that is listed and has high curb appeal will demand a higher price and take less time to sell. Think about the things that catch your eye when driving around a subdivision or going for a walk through your neighborhood.

These 5 tips can go a long way for adding value to your home and making sure yours isn’t one that sticks around for long once it hits the market.

TIP #1: WASH UP YOUR EXTERIOR

Brick. Vinyl. Stucco. The siding doesn’t matter, it’s time to take a bucket of soapy water and remove the dust and dirt. Choosing to rent a power washer is an alternative (and fairly inexpensive) option as well. Don’t forget the windows (inside and out)!

TIP #2: DO NOT IGNORE THE ROOF

If one thing is certain, buyers and their agent will not overlook the condition of the roof. Even more importantly, an appraiser will not only target the roof specifically, but a tired, worn roof will be reflected in the appraised value of the home.

“According to a “Remodeling Impact Report” from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, the national median cost of a new asphalt shingle roof is about $7,600.” – Pat Curry, HouseLogic

TIP #3: NEATEN THE YARD & ADD SOME COLOR

• Fresh mulch
• Cover bare spots with seeds and sod
• Mow regularly
• Flowers are a must
• Pull weeds and ugly vines
• Paint the front door

TIP #4: FENCE YOURSELF IN

Appraisers will give increased value to a home that has a fence in good condition. Use your best judgment to determine if this fits within your neighborhood. If you currently have a fence, it is important to have it in good condition prior to listing it.

TIP #5: MAINTENANCE IS KEY

These are the simple tasks that can go a long way for the value of your home – Fixing hanging gutters, replacing missing bricks, installing a new handle on your front door. The relatively cheap updates can act as a huge selling point and will go a long way for positive first impressions.