Spring is here, and the soon to arrive riot of bright colors and blooming flowers coincides with what is traditionally a high season for home sales. In attractive Bucks County neighborhoods like Jamison and Doylestown, this gives homeowners a unique chance to capitalize on the famed beauty of the season to show their homes off to buyers in the best possible way.
By optimizing their home’s curb appeal, sellers can make a powerful first impression, even on prospective buyers who are just driving by to see the home from the outside before deciding if they would like to investigate further. There are many ways you can add to the curb appeal of your home this spring, but here are a few of Pauline’s favorites:
- Clean it up:
The very first thing that needs to happen to increase curb appeal is to make sure that your outdoor space is clean, uncluttered, and well-kept. This includes everything that is visible from the outside, from your windows, roof, and siding to your porch, railing, and front steps. It also includes your lawn and any plants, trees, flowers, or shrubs on your property. Keeping this area clean may mean power washing the siding, clearing away toys or bikes left on the lawn, or doing a bit of gardening or landscaping. Porches should be swept regularly, and lawns maintained. All outside areas should be kept clear of trash and clutter. - Fix it up:
Are you missing a baluster in a railing? Is the paint chipping, or are there brown or bald patches in your lawn? In addition to a clean and uncluttered space, you also want to present prospective buyers with the image of a well-maintained space where everything is in good repair. This may require replacing a few shingles, fixing a creaky step, or evening out the lawn with new grass seed.
- Spruce it up:
Once your outdoor space is clean, clear, and in good repair, it’s time to add some nice touches. Maybe that’s a pretty piece of outdoor furniture for the porch, like a comfy chair accented with a pillow and throw blanket. Maybe it’s a flower box under the window sill, or a pair of topiaries to flank your door. Whatever you choose, remember to keep the style consistent with the architectural style of your house, and always bear in mind that neutral tones give prospective buyers more of a blank canvas feeling for them to imagine themselves making the space their own. - Lighten it up:
Don’t forget lighting! During the day this may not seem as important, but many prospective buyers—and anyone really serious about your home—will want to see it at night. Be sure that your driveway or walkway is well lit, as well as the steps, porch area, and door. Choose warm lighting that is inviting and appealing—bright enough for people to see without any danger of tripping or falling in the dark, but not so bright that it appears harsh and unwelcoming.
Creating an appealing first impression for your home is the first step to engaging a prospective buyer, and amping up your curb appeal is a great way to get started. Talk with Pauline McNamee today about how to implement these tips and get your home noticed by buyers in Southeastern PA!
