See photos and updates from listings directly in your feed
Share your favorite listings with friends and family
Save your search and get new listings directly in your mailbox before everybody else
Nearly 100% of real estate agents believe curb appeal plays a crucial role in attracting a buyer and securing an offer on your home.
Making a good first impression on prospective buyers starts with creating an attractive and welcoming exterior. If people aren’t attracted to the outside of your house, they’ll never make it inside to see all it has to offer.
Curb appeal includes everything from landscaping and lighting to safety and cleanliness.
Here we’ll discuss exactly what curb appeal is, why it matters, and offer useful and affordable curb appeal ideas.
Curb Appeal Meaning
Simply put, curb appeal is how attractive a house or property looks from the outside. It includes everything from the color of the siding to the lawn, decorations, driveway, and roof.
Certain factors affect curb appeal as well including location, architecture, and climate. What works best in one part of the country may stand out like a sore thumb elsewhere.
For example, tree-lined yards and freshly-painted fences are popular in the Midwest, while porches and original pillars make a statement in the south.
Consider your geographical location and incorporate curb appeal ideas that compliment the region.
Interesting Statistics About Curb Appeal
Some homeowners think curb appeal is a catch-phrase that holds little meaning. Neglecting the exterior of your home can significantly reduce your chances of getting an offer on your home.
Here are some other compelling statistics to chew on.
- A well-landscaped lawn can increase offers by nearly 13%
- 94% of realtors encourage homeowners to invest in exterior upgrades before marketing their home
- Homes with high curb appeal sell 7% faster than homes without an eye-catching exterior
If you want people to notice your home from the street, you need to invest some time, money, and effort into its curb appeal.
The best part is, minor changes like a fresh coat of paint on the front door or walkway lighting can make a big impact on how others view your home.
3 Ways Curb Appeal Can Help Sell Your House
Now that you understand why curb appeal is important and have a few curb appeal ideas, let’s cover three specific ways outdoor upgrades can help sell your house.
1. It Draws People In(side)
The exterior of your home is the first thing people see when passing by or driving up to an open house or showing. You want to take their breath away — in a good way!
Curb appeal that is warm and welcoming draws people in. A clean, well-lit home with attractive landscaping helps pique buyers’ interest. It compels them to ask questions and want to see more.
On the contrary, a house that is dirty or in disrepair is an instant turn-off for prospective buyers. Not only does it look unappealing but it means more work and costly repairs if they do decide to make an offer.
2. It Tells Them About You as a Homeowner
The condition of your house and property is a reflection of you as a homeowner and person. A home that is well-maintained and cared for gives the impression that you’re a responsible person.
The outside of your house provides prospective buyers with a sneak peek at how you care for your home in its entirety, including the inside.
When your home’s exterior is attractive, safe, and well-maintained, buyers assume that the interior is equally as well-cared for. This gives them a certain level of trust and confidence in you, your home, and the purchase.
3. It Increases Selling and Resale Value
The current price of your house isn’t the only thing prospective buyers consider. Some are also thinking years ahead about the potential for resale value.
Any upgrades or renovations you make to the exterior of your house increase its value — now and later. By investing in curb appeal, you can reasonably increase your asking price.
You can also include these upgrades and add-on features in your home’s listing to attract more buyers looking for a low-maintenance option.
Things like solar lighting, walkway pavers, driveway edging, and landscaping are all long-term investments that increase your home’s value.
Easy Curb Appeal Ideas
Investing in your home’s curb appeal doesn’t mean breaking the bank. There are plenty of easy and affordable outdoor upgrades that can still make a big impact.
Walkway Lighting
Walkway lighting is welcoming and ensures visitors’ safety. Add a few solar lights along the pathway leading to your house. This draws people in, creating a warm and inviting feel.
It also guarantees that anyone entering or exiting the home has a well-lit path to follow. This prevents trips, falls, and injuries.
Landscaping
Simple things like mowing your grass and weeding your garden can make a big difference in how your property looks to others.
You can also take curb appeal landscaping to another level by planting shrubs, bushes, or trees around the property. Colorful flowers that bloom all year long add a much-needed pop of color to your home’s exterior.
Powerwashing
It’s no surprise that the outside of your house can get pretty dirty over the years. Everything from dirt, grime, pollen, and even mildew can build up on your siding, pavers, and roof.
Invest in a power washer or hire professionals to give the surface of your house a deep clean. This lets buyers see the true beauty it has to offer and shows a certain level of care.
Investing in Curb Appeal is an Investment in Your Future
Are you ready to sell your home and start the next chapter of your life?
Before you post that “for sale” sign, give the outside of your home a quick once over. Check for any minor and major repairs.
Step back and look at your property from a distance. Is it warm and inviting or cold, dark, and dreary?
By investing a little time and effort into your home’s curb appeal, you can attract more buyers and increase your chances of getting an offer.
Not sure where to start? Our team of experts has the knowledge and experience to market and sell your home fast!
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a home, we’ve got you covered.
Reach out today and learn more about all of our services and expertise.
