February 23, 2012

5 Steps to Increasing Your Home’s Curb Appeal

As a Calgary Real Estate Agent I know that when it comes to selling your home you will want to get it noticed by potential buyers, one of the most important steps you can take is to increase what industry expert refer to as a home’s “curb appeal.” By increasing the curb appeal of your property, your home will be more attractive to potential buyers. In turn, these potential buyers will be more likely to contact a Realtor to learn more about your home. The good news is that increasing a home’s curb appeal is easier than you might think. Here’s a look at 5 easy steps for increasing your home’s curb appeal and getting your home sold.

Step #1: Keep Your Lawn Mowed

A well-maintained lawn is attractive to most buyers, so make sure your lawn is kept short and that any bare spots have been repaired. If necessary, re-sod or re-seed parts of the lawn that are not up to par.

Step #2: Keep the Landscaping Manicured

Even if your landscaping is minimal, be sure to keep it well-manicured in order to increase your curb appeal. If you have bushes, for example, they should be properly trimmed without any branches touching your house. Also, keep in mind that a little fresh mulch can go a long way toward brightening up your yard and increasing its curb appeal.

Step #3: Clean Up Clutter

Having a cluttered lawn when trying to sell a home will be a major turn-off to potential buyers. Of course, if you have children, keeping your lawn free of clutter can be even more difficult. Still, you need to be diligent about making sure there are no toys or other items lying in your lawn. Check regularly for trash that may have been tossed into your yard, for fallen branches and for any other clutter in your yard.

Step #4: Wash the Outside of the Home

Depending on the exterior condition of your home, you may not have to do too much to make it appealing to buyers. If it is in poor condition, you may have to make repairs, to paint the exterior or to replace siding. If it is in good condition, however, you can simply power wash the exterior to make it clean and attractive.

Step #5: Add Flowers

Adding flowers is a great way to liven up your yard while also making it appear more attractive and better maintained. The good news is that you don’t have to plant flowers in your yard in order to achieve this look. Simply adding a few hanging pots or attractive patio pots with annuals will go a long way while increasing curb appeal – and you can even take the pots and flowers with you when you move!

About the author: Crystal Tost has been a residential Calgary real estate agent for over 15 years. For more information on current properties for sale view MLS® Calgary

About the author

Crystal Tost Calgary Real Estate Agent

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