The Cascade Team Blog

How beneficial is it to a seller to have beautiful curb appeal?

Spring is in the air, and while you are planting your flowers, mowing the lawn, and getting your house "spring pretty" you are also setting yourself up for success if you plan on selling. Does curb appeal help sellers? Does it attract buyers? It does, in face according to Homelight 

In a recent poll of top HomeLight agents from all over the country, 76% said that Improving curb appeal was the best thing homeowners could do to boost a home’s marketability, and another 95% of agents confirmed that putting effort into cleaning and polishing the exterior can bring more attention and a higher value to that home.

Buying a home is an emotional experience. It is, therefore, critically important that a seller sets the proper stage in generating a positive emotional response from a buyer.

Fortune Builders goes into a bit more details HERE that with just six minor adjustments, a seller can make a huge difference in a buyers first impression of the home. From your grass and trees to repainting your front door, the things they talk about can be immensely helpful. 

Curb appeal sets expectations. Prospective buyers are more inclined to look inside if they like what they see on the outside. First impressions make a difference when it comes to selling a home.

 At first glance, you want your property to have a “wow” factor. At a minimum, it shouldn’t turn off a large majority of buyers. Conversely, the home’s curb appeal should entice buyers to inquire further.

These are great tips for not only sellers but general appeal to a homeowner. Whether you plan on selling or buying, beautiful curb appeal can be extremely rewarding when you first pull into your driveway!

Accessories You Should Never Buy For Your Yard

Initially the focus was on what to do when it comes to curb appeal, lets now talk about what NOT to do. Apartment Therapy notes "the 6 Accessories You Should Never Buy for Your Yard, According to Real Estate Pros"  

It's the first thing buyers see when they drive by, and it's what catches the eye of online listing dreamers. It can be so simple to get right and easy to get wrong. It's an area where less is almost always more.

 

Holiday decor is often a common mistake that sellers may forget. Some people forget about those lights that they left hanging on the roof since December. Apartment Therapy, Jonathan Schmitt, who is a Realtor with Keller Willams Realty, states, “An absolute no-no is holiday decor!"

Others like Justin Havre & Associates Real Estate advises on things like flamingos, gnomes, and all their friends, stating, 

"Flashy wreaths, pink flamingos, and lawn gnomes — anything bold and inconsistent with the surrounding houses is typically a no-go."

 

Here is a shocker, would you think too many plants can be a turn-off to buyers? When I think of gardening, I think about all the perks that come with it. They add beauty to a house and can look very inviting. I personally know family and friends always compliment a home that initially presents well. It's an incredible first impression and very appealing to most people. So, you would think a lot of plants would be beneficial....

 Nope!

 One Too Many Planters can prove to be very overwhelming to some buyers 

Plants are usually a plus when it comes to curb appeal, but there is such a thing as taking it too far. Remember, this is a home, not a greenhouse. Amy Owens, a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty in Montclair and Glen Ridge, New Jersey, says, "Pops of color with plants and flowers are great. Flank your front door with planters. But keep it to a maximum of two doorway planters so as not to overwhelm."  

Another big impact is paint choices, I am a firm believer that clients should focus on neutral colors so to attract more buyers. Jordan Scarpino, a real estate broker and owner of West Coast Real Estate Hub, also likes to steer his clients towards neutral colors. In fact, he states, 

"The biggest curb appeal culprits are bright unusual colors, like pink, yellow, and red. When choosing the right color for your home, consider a color which fits with the rest of the homes in your neighborhood. Also, avoid bright and offensive colors that might be irritating to some people." 

There you have it, some specific dos and don’ts that can benefit you when selling your home. If selling your home is something that you are really planning on considering, there is no better time than now! I will market and sell your home and help with some great agent tips on curb appeal along the way!