5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Sale: House Exteriors
When you think of preparing your home for a sale, the interior of your home is usually the first place you start. Equally as important, but often overlooked, is the exterior of your home. The front of your home will be the first impression buyers get and will be the defining factor if they proceed with viewing your home.
Many buyers will merely drive past potential homes, and if your exterior doesn't invite them to change their minds, you may not get the chance to do so, no matter how amazing the rest of your home may be.
Neglecting the exterior of your home is a warning to potential buyers that you have not cared for the property and they could be up for time and money. Not to mention the number of prospective buyers who won't even consider stepping through the door.
It isn't just about kerb appeal. Buyers will be looking at the whole property, front to back, so you will need to pay attention to the entire exterior. Here are five essential elements to consider before you put your home on the market.
KERB APPEAL
The front of your home needs to stand up against your competition. Start by standing across the road and viewing your home as a potential buyer would. Are you drawn to what you see? Would you be enticed to see more of the property? Make a list of all the things that need your attention.
- Repair any torn screens and replace cracked windows.
- Be sure the doorbell, mailbox and porch light are clean and in working order.
- Take note of the railings, steps and the garage door, making sure they are functional. Wash them down or paint them if they are scratched or damaged.
- Bins can make the property look untidy, so ensure they cannot be seen and are out of the way.
- Take particular care of the front door - you can refresh it with a coat of paint. Don't be afraid to make a statement with a pop of colour.
Remember, in this instance, first impressions count.
DECLUTTER
You may love that garden gnome, but it isn't going entice potential purchasers. Decluttering outside is just as important as inside, clear away personal items and any unnecessary clutter. Buyers won't want to step over items before they get inside the property.
- Sweep the outside decks and front porch and discard any old or rusted furniture.
- If you have a pool, keep the area free of clutter.
- Remove any toys or equipment from the lawns.
- If you have a four-legged friend, make sure you keep his/her areas clean and tidy. Dispose of any half-chewed toys, and it should go without saying, pick up after your pet.
REPAIR & REFRESH
Nothing can make more of an impact on a home than a fresh coat of paint. The same applies to the exterior. If a full repaint is out of your budget, paint or stain any areas that are peeling or blistering.
- Repair any fences, deck areas and gates and give them a fresh coat of paint or stain if they are looking faded.
- A roof is a big-ticket item, so make sure your roof is in good repair, including gutters and downpipes. While you are up there, clear out any dead foliage from the gutters. The last thing you want is water over-spilling if you get inclement weather during viewing times.
- For hard surfaces such as paved areas, sidings or driveways, power-cleaning can remove any built-up dirt or mildew that may have accrued over the colder months and bring the areas back to life.
- If you have a pool, make sure the water is free of debris, and is clear and inviting. If you have an unsightly pool pump, invest in a screen to neatly conceal it.
GARDENS & LAWNS
In Australia, we spend a considerable amount of time outside, so potential buyers will be looking at how they can use the outdoor space.
If you have the time, start preparing your lawns a few months before you plan to put your home on the market.
- Airing and seeding will help you to cultivate a lush, green grass come time to put it on the market.
- Regular mowing and fertilising will also keep your lawn verdant during the selling period.
Make sure the lawn is manicured and mess free.
- Trim the edge of the paths and the front kerb.
- Pay attention to the garden by weeding and removing leaves, trimming shrubs & eliminating dead trees and branches.
- For an instant wow-factor use oversized pots and plants; these can be also be used to camouflage any unappealing areas.
- Sugarcane mulch or bark chips are a cost-effective way to finish off the garden area, making it look well-kept and keeping weeds at bay. If you have any dark or drab areas, use colourful flowers to give an instant lift.
STYLE THE SPACE
Australia has beautiful weather, in some places year-round, so buyers must see the outdoor areas as an extension of the home.
Creating a warm and inviting outdoor space is an essential part of selling your home. Maximise the functionality of balconies or outdoor terrace areas by adding a small dining setting or lounge chairs. Don't have a deck area? By styling the outdoor lawn as if you do, it helps buyers visualise what they can do with the space.
Preparing the exterior may feel like a lot of hard work, but you will reap the benefits when it comes time to sell. You will not only capture a broader audience of buyers from your efforts but can also command a premium price.
Still unsure of where to start? Valiant has a dedicated team of professional stylists who can help you prepare your home for sale. Call for a consultation today!
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