The importance of curb appeal cannot be overstated when it comes to the value of a property. Homeowners often invest a significant amount of time and money to enhance the exterior appearance of their homes. A well-maintained and attractive house not only stands out and is memorable, but it can also increase the property’s value. However, making bad curb appeal mistakes can have costly consequences. Even minor issues such as a dirty exterior, overgrown lawn, or cluttered front porch can turn away potential buyers and lower the property’s value. Homeowners can find affordable ways to improve their curb appeal with the help of the internet and social media, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hurt the property’s appearance and value. Taking care of the exterior of the house can go a long way in enhancing its overall value and appeal.
Curb Appeal is What Sells
First impressions are everything – well at least when it comes to selling and buying property. Homeowners don’t only want a well-designed interior; they also want a house with great curb appeal. The home should include an amazing front yard, driveway, and landscape. For those who are buying and selling online curb appeal is important too, the first thing buyers are going to want to see is the front of the home. You need to be able to “Wow” buyers and sellers from the curb.
Not Letting Sunshine In
Not allowing natural light into a home can be a costly mistake for homeowners looking to sell their property. Sunlight can make a house feel warm, inviting, and comfortable, and it’s one of the most sought-after features by potential buyers. When natural light is limited or absent, a home can feel dark, cramped, and uninviting, which can turn away potential buyers and decrease the value of the property. Homeowners should ensure that their windows are clean and properly maintained to allow for maximum natural light to come in. However, cleaning high windows can be dangerous, so it’s important to hire a professional if necessary to avoid accidents. Allowing natural light into a home can make a big difference in its overall appeal and value.
Taking Bad or Unprofessional Pictures
Start by taking great pictures that will WOW people. The biggest mistake that I see over and over again is bad photography. Bad pictures will scare off potential buyers. Start by getting your hands on a decent DSLR camera, you don’t have to buy a brand new one you could borrow one from a friend. DSLR cameras are known for taking great quality pictures that point-and-shoot cameras and cellphones can’t.
Cellphone pictures are great for selfies and cute pictures of your puppy but that’s about it. After you get your hands on a DSLR you’re ready to start shooting. The best time to take pictures of homes is around noon-time, around noon the sun is right above the house and will have great lighting to show the great curb appeal. After a few pictures, you are ready to post them online.
Not Acting Like a Buyer
The best way to see your home for what it really is is to act as a buyer yourself, according to Property Records of Maryland. When you act like a buyer you see the house from a different point of view. Walk around the house and act like a family man or woman who needs certain things from a home for the kids and dogs. When you walk around the house take notes of what needs to be repaired, replaced, or even cleaned. Another great way to act as a buyer is to drive by the house and see it like by-passers and potential homebuyers will see it as you might see something you’ve never seen or noticed before.
Not Fixing or Replacing the Front Door
Not replacing the front door can be a costly mistake for homeowners trying to sell their property. The front door is a crucial aspect of a house’s curb appeal and can make or break a potential buyer’s first impression. If the front door is old, worn out, or unattractive, it can give the impression that the house is outdated or poorly maintained. Additionally, a weak or flimsy front door can make potential buyers feel unsafe and deter them from making an offer. Homeowners should invest in a modern and secure front door that gives a welcoming and inviting impression. A new front door can improve the home’s appearance and increase its value, while an old or unsightly one can decrease it. Therefore, replacing the front door is an important step for homeowners to take when preparing to sell their property.
The Address Numbers are Hidden
When buyers are looking for an address they will be looking for an address number if the house number is hidden or hard to see they will keep driving. If you decide to leave the current house numbers make sure to clean them and make them more visible by cutting the bushes or plants covering them.
Not Getting a Second Opinion
Not getting a second opinion from another person is a big “no”. Many homeowners get used to certain defects like broken doorbells, chipped paint, and dried grass patches. These defects might not be a big deal to the seller but many new homeowners have children and pets. Get a second opinion from a friend or relative to repair what you missed. When they let you know their opinion make sure to fix it or replace it right away before you forget.