In today’s real estate market curb appeal is becoming increasingly important. Today’s buyer is more sophisticated than before and they do more homework. One of the new trends I see emerging here in the Pensacola Real Estate market is a buyer finding property online and then getting in their vehicle and driving to the property PRIOR to setting the appointment to go view the property.  This increases the need for good curb appeal. Here are five steps that can help with curb appeal

ADD LIGHTING

Lighting, both inside and out, makes a home feel more comfortable. Imagine driving up to a home and dusk and seeing beautiful walkway lights leading to a home that is lite and feels warm. This is the feeling we want to portray to the potential buyers. Of course, there’s no need to light up the night like Disneyworld; low-wattage lights (solar-powered or with CFL bulbs) will do just fine.

 

PAINT

Start with the front door. You want the buyers’ eyes to be pulled into the walkway. The best way to do that is to have a color that is inviting but different from the surrounding. Next do not be afraid of painting the trim to give the property a fresh look

 

 

DRESS UP THE MAILBOX

Even the smallest of changes make a huge difference and this is one. Consider painting the mailbox the same color as the front door. Also replace the numbers and maybe even a decal to give it a little style. Finally if it is in the season you may want to add a flower box, with flowers, to the back of the mailbox for a nice touch. Just ensure if you have flowers in the box you keep them looking nice.

 

 

 

 

 

ADDING BOLD HOUSE NUMBERS

Since we are discussing easy ways to add curb appeal this one definitely makes the list. Not only is it going to be easier for the Pizza delivery person to bring your pie, your potential buyers will be able to find the house very quickly. This also adds a nice clean look to the property.

 

 

 

WALKWAY

One inexpensive way to address most walkways is to rent (or better yet borrow) a pressure washer and pressure wash it all down. This would include the driveway. This should help the walkway match the clean look that the new door and mailbox have. Additionally if you can dress up the walkway some by adding pavers or some designs it will help give the property the newer look most buyers are going for right now.

 

 

ADD SHRUBBERY OR PLANTS

Finally adding shrubs or plants can add multiples to your curb appeal. This is a very cost effective way to increase the likelihood of the buyer making an appointment to see the inside of the property. When you plant in the front yard consider the sight line of the buyer from the road and plant in such a way to draw their eyes to the front door. Another aspect to consider would be hanging plants as this gives a warm feeling to the property.

 

Well there it is. These are some of the most inexpensive ways to help increase your curb appeal without really breaking the bank. When deciding which item to do discuss with your real estate professional and ask if they have a stager that has walk through service. This service helps a seller address inside and outside issues. Since a stager can look at the property from a buyers eyes and your agent can look at it through marketing eyes you could have a great team.