Creating Curb Appeal

When selling your home, a positive first impression is essential to attract potential buyers. Since most people start their search for a new home online, pleasing photos of the exterior of your home capture attention and encourage viewings. “Curb appeal” is the complete visual picture that people see of the exterior of your home. Here are some tips to help you in creating curb appeal at your home:

The front door is a focal point of your home. A fresh, glossy door color makes for an inviting entrance. Choose a paint color that is not used on any other part of the exterior of your home. Burgundy, black, dark grey or dark green look sophisticated.
Paint your garage door the same color as the main part of the house so that it blends in. This allows for other features (e.g. stone siding, windows, the front door) to make a stronger impression.
Haul away any unused items or debris in your yard.
If you have large shrubs or trees that block windows or a view to the house, consider removing them. You home will be most inviting if there is a clear sightline from the street and natural light is allowed to pour into your windows.
Complete any necessary repairs (e.g., ripped window screens, broken downspout).
If needed, wash your siding with a hose or pressure washer. Don’t forget to wipe down your mailbox and front door on a frequent basis so your home feels fresh as buyers approach.
Ensure that your house numbers are large and easy to read from the street.
Attend to walkways and ensure safe a path to your door. In the summer, sweep your front steps. In the winter, ensure that snow is cleared from your sidewalks and driveway. Looking after these details suggests to potential buyers that the entire property has been well-cared for.
Landscaping adds value to a home. If you are adding trees and plants, consider creating beds with gentle curves for a natural look. These curves can soften the hard angles of a house. Keep it simple with the repetition of plants and rely on different textured plants to add additional interest.
In the summer, keep your grass well-watered, trim your shrubs, remove dead plant material and mow frequently.
Resist the urge to add many small pots or lawn ornaments scattered around your yard and entry. This can be distracting.
Add an eye-catching planter (ceramic is preferred over plastic) near the front door. If you don’t have a green thumb, fill the container with single-colored annuals to keep it simple. In the winter, fill your container with red dogwood, birch branches and evergreen boughs for seasonal interest.
Add a fresh mat outside your front door for a welcoming touch.

Read more about why you should stage your home for sale in Saskatoon HERE.

Shannon Weber
In Fine Order Staging Services
(306) 262-1912
www.infineorder.ca