In the world of buying and selling homes, there are two words everyone knows: CURB APPEAL. Curb appeal on a house is a lot like going out on a first date. If you like what you see initially, you’re going to want to know more. Given the hailstorm of keystrokes I’ve burdened you with over the years, I can never emphasize enough the impact of inspired CURB APPEAL to create an intangible sense of delight and a quicker sale. Not again, you sigh, when all you really want to do is order in Uber Eats. Again.I don’t want to cause more tears and anguish than the ending of Charlotte’s Web, but truly, I have nothing but your best interests at heart, even though you may prefer to talk about the lengthening lines on my face. I assure you that you are capable of any sacrifice only if it doesn’t last too long. Pinky swear. Fall curb appeal is all about coziness and welcome, about adding warmth quintessential to the season without detracting from the existing elements. So what’s the absolute best Home Staging curb appeal secret? Adding plants and/or flowers. The beauty of nature trumps all. Planters. Fill with pumpkins, twigs, artificial leaves, marigolds or cut sunflowers for a cheery fall look. Potted mums are the iconic fall container plant. To save time and effort, head to the local garden store to purchase container plants that are already in or close to full bloom. Hang or arrange a number of them in the front garden, planters, window box or on the front steps. Hold on a sweater-loving second, what is fall without pumpkins! All I know is that pumpkins are never a mistake. Pumpkins are the iceberg lettuce of the autumn world. Like iceberg lettuce, they last a long time and are available everywhere. They are inexpensive, colourful, lively, and great for the whole of the harvest season. Note: Homes with high curb appeal tend to sell for an average of 7% more than similar homes with an uninviting exterior, according to a joint study by the University of Alabama and the University of Texas at Arlington. The study, published in the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics, continues to stress the importance of curb appeal, stating that the premium jumps to a 14% higher price tag in slower real estate markets. Sometimes all you need is a simple touch – like a pretty plaid blanket and a lone pumpkin on a front porch. No one in the history of ever has said, “What a beautiful old door mat!” A good impression should start from the first step. Keep it impersonal. Don’t advertise your favourite sports team. No joke mats like, “Hi, I’m Mat.” or “Not You Again!” or worst of all, “Nice Underwear.” Doors were made to be opened. Hang a seasonal wreath. The front door is that all-important first impression that moulds the opinion of every buyer –- and the end, as potential buyers take a last look back as they drive away. |
It’s the recipe and not any one specific ingredient that makes for great curb appeal. This is the path to buyers’ hearts and an offer.Anyway, thanks for coming to my TED talk about curb appeal. |
Supercharge Curb Appeal
October 11, 2023 by
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