Homes are selling at a faster rate than for the past two years – and you may be feeling that it’s time to get a piece of the action.
Buyers want to make the most of record-low interest rates and many are ready to create their new normal, trading location for more space, weary of being cooped up during this pandemic and the cold of winter.
Zillow says inventory is low and that’s why prices are on the march. So if you want to be first out of the gate for the spring selling season, now is the time to start planning how you’ll make a great first impression with buyers.
The first time a buyer might see your home is as a photo of the exterior posted on a property website. That image must be real eye-candy – sweet enough to persuade them to drive over for a viewing.
When they arrive, it is your curb appeal that is going to set the tone for everything else they’ll experience.
So, if you want to maximize the value of your home, it’s a great idea to focus on the front yard and exterior of your home. Zillow research claims a great front yard can lift your home value almost 3%.
Below are some tips to help.
- Make it tidy – This is the minimum you need to achieve. Put away the hose, tools, toys and furniture that might usually litter the yard. It’s probably a good idea to retire any gnomes, at least while your home is on the market! Sweep the paths of leaves.
- Tip-top condition – It’s essential buyers see that the frontage is well maintained. Check if the windows and sills need a repaint, and inspect the guttering and downpipes. Make sure the gutters are clear of leaves.
- Go green – The lawn doesn’t have to be manicured but make sure it’s tidy as we move into spring. If you can, mow it regularly during the sales campaign. Put mulch on the flowerbeds to zap unsightly weeds. Trim the hedges.
- Window dressing – Keep plants free from the windows. You don’t want them to reduce natural light that floods into your home especially in winter. Light serves to make the interior feel larger.
- Add character – If you fear your front garden lacks a focal point, consider planting a mature tree as we head into spring. This can change a buyer’s perception of your home and potentially add thousands of the dollars to its value.
- Privacy matters – An element of seclusion and mystery from the street leaves buyers wanting to know more. Plants bushes or a mature hedge if possible. Privacy from neighbors and passersby has real value.
- Create color – Lovely annuals will add a little sass to your flowerbeds and get you into the mood for spring. And one of the cheapest and easiest moves is to paint your front door a bright, primary color. It’s really in fashion right now and leaves a lasting impression.
- The path most travelled – Pressure-wash your garden path and driveway. Check them for surface chips and cracks, and get them fixed.
- Shed some light – Install new, modern lighting at the front door and on the porch. We’ll turn them on for viewing.
- Just add tech – Buyers are always impressed by home security, automated gates, and the latest in locking mechanisms for your door. Consider installing a sprinkler system, too.