5 Curb Appeal Basics You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Mission style Stained wood front door with beveled glass surrounded by two Adirondack chairs and flowers

Buyers start forming a first impression as they drive up to your home, so here are five curb appeal basics you can’t afford to ignore.

5 Curb Appeal Basics You Can’t Afford to Ignore

First things first: you have to clean up your yard before you list your home for sale. That means removing toys, tools and other items that belong in the shed, cutting the grass, power washing your driveway and sidewalk, and conducting general maintenance around flowerbeds and bushes.

But you can take things a step farther (and impress buyers more) by putting these five curb appeal basics to use:

  1. Invest in a new mailbox and house numbers
  2. Dress up your hardware
  3. Create a comfy space on the porch
  4. Update your lighting
  5. Make an “instant garden”

Scroll down for a closer look at each.

Basic Curb Appeal Tip #1: Invest in a New Mailbox and House Numbers

If your mailbox isn’t fairly new, consider replacing it. The same goes for your house numbers, which should match your home’s exterior style and be clearly visible from the road so buyers can find it easily. Just be sure to check with your homeowners association (if you have one) so you remain within its guidelines.

Related: The three things that are making your home look old

Basic Curb Appeal Tip #2: Dress Up Your Hardware

Give your front door a style boost by investing in a new door handle and deadbolt. Match it to your house numbers and the other hardware on your porch to create a streamlined look that buyers will love.

Basic Curb Appeal Tip #3: Create a Comfy Space on Your Porch

Your front porch can serve as an extension of the indoor living space, so show buyers that it’s a great place to spend time. You can do that by adding comfortable seating gathered around a small table. You don’t have to be traditional, either; you can install a porch swing or a pair of rocking chairs. The main point is to show buyers that they may enjoy spending time on the porch after they purchase your home.

Related: Moving with a dog? Here’s how to pull it off

Basic Curb Appeal Tip #4: Update Your Lighting

At the bare minimum, you should clean your porch’s light fixture thoroughly before you list your home for sale. If the fixture has seen better days, replace it. You should also pay attention to the other lighting in your landscaping; if you have lights illuminating your sidewalk, uplighting your trees, or anywhere else, make sure that all the bulbs are in good shape and that everything’s working properly.

Basic Curb Appeal Tip #5: Make an Instant Garden

Adding a container garden or beautiful potted plants can make a huge difference in the way buyers see your home. You can place them in strategic locations around your yard for maximum curb appeal.

Related: The best home office upgrades to make when you’re selling your home

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