7 Ways to Boost Curb Appeal Before Listing a Property

Published On: April 15th, 2024Categories: Buying and Selling, Real Estate Marketing, Tips & TricksLast Updated: March 18th, 202410.9 min read

About the Author: Nicole Schnell

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Modern two-story house exterior at dusk, illustrating how to boost curb appeal

Preparing a property for sale involves more than just cleaning and sprucing up the interior. The exterior, particularly the curb appeal, plays a crucial role in attracting potential buyers and making a lasting impression. We’ll explore seven essential tips to boost curb appeal, from decluttering the exterior to refreshing the paint and creating a welcoming space. You can not only make your property more appealing but also increase its marketability, ultimately leading to a quicker and more successful sale.

#1: Clean & Declutter the Exterior

Clean up the yard by removing any toys, raking the leaves, and mowing the grass. Consider scheduling routine yard maintenance while it’s on the market if you don’t already. Move unsightly trash and recycling cans to a discreet or hidden location when you can. A clutter-free exterior allows potential buyers to focus on the property’s features without distraction.

#2: Upgrade the Landscaping

Freshen up the dirt and grass with mulch and sod where needed. Plant fresh flowers if there aren’t any or if they’re looking a little sad. Trim bushes, hedges, and trees for a tidy appearance that draws focus to the property. Potted plants are also great ways to add landscaping for additional charm, providing a welcoming atmosphere from the moment buyers arrive.

#3: Create a Welcoming Entrance

Invite guests in by adding comfortable outdoor furniture to the front porch (if space allows). Repaint a chipped or faded front door, or use wood oil for a natural finish, and add a welcome mat and door decor. Additionally, updating the door hardware and house number signage can make a big difference in the overall look being polished and cohesive.

#4: Get the Lighting Right

Ensure that the main doorway light and lighting for the driveway, garage, and walkways are well-lit. Consider setting automatic timers to ensure they’re on when needed and off when not to conserve energy (and the bill!). Proper lighting not only enhances safety but also adds a warm and welcoming ambiance, especially during evening showings.

#5: Freshen Up the Paint

Check the exterior of the property for any chipping paint, mildew, or other stains. Either pressure wash or re-paint where it’s needed, keeping the color neutral to appeal to widen the potential buyer pool. A well-maintained exterior paint job adds instant curb appeal and gives the impression of a well-cared-for home.

#6: Update the Garage

The garage is often a front-facing feature of many homes and can significantly impact the overall aesthetic appeal. Ensure the garage door is well-oiled and not showing signs of rust, and replace worn-out weatherstripping. Power wash and/or paint the garage door, and consider applying decorative hardware for a cleaner and more elevated look.

#7: Hire a Professional Photographer

High-quality images showcase your property in its best light, attracting potential buyers. A professional photographer captures stunning visuals with the right angles, lighting, and perspective, maximizing your curb appeal. At Square Foot Photography, all our images come with a Blue Sky Guarantee, ensuring your listing always features the best background possible.

Boost curb appeal and set your listing apart from the competition, attracting more potential buyers and ultimately leading to a quicker sale. Schedule a shoot with Square Foot Photography today to capture your listing property at its best!

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