
The first impression says it all! It’s true, homes with attractive curb appeal fetch higher asking prices and spend less time sitting on the market. Though there aren’t specific values connected to certain improvement projects, here are some of my favourite financially friendly ways to freshen your home’s exterior.
Fresh & Clean Before you make the decision of whether to paint the exterior of your home, turn to a traditional deep clean of your exterior with a pressure washer or some good-old-fashioned elbow grease. A bucket of hot soapy water and a long-handled bristle brush will likely remove more of the built-up dirt and general grime than you’d expect. Ensure you find the right cleaning products that can be used on your specific exterior (vinyl, wood, tin, stucco, brick, etc.) before you begin the cleaning process.
A Fresh Coat of Paint After your deep clean, you can decide if the wear and tear on your home requires a new coat of paint. There are so many durable and aesthetically appealing paint products to choose from, and though this project may require some additional funds, it can set your home apart from others when potential buyers are browsing.
Garden Goodness Potted plants and a tidy garden can take your curb appeal from zero to hero. Make a plan that incorporates bushes, trees or curated garden plots to give your home a polished look. When selecting your greenery of choice, be sure to look for plants that thrive in your unique area’s weather. Don’t forget the finishing touch; fresh topsoil or some well-laid mulch.
Add a Pop of Colour Sometimes the simplest additions can make the biggest difference in your curb appeal. A freshly painted front door, new front patio cushions or ornamental accents bring life and add character to your home. Have a look around your house for unused decor that may be a great addition to a patio table or porch; you can always bring them to life with a fresh coat of spray paint too.
Maintenance and Clutter Nothing deters potential buyers more than a house in need of basic upkeep. Take a stroll around the exterior of your property with a pen and paper noting items that need to be addressed. Ensure there aren’t any loose shutters or window awnings, clean out your gutters, clear the way of clutter and debris, add mortar to aging brick faces and re-stain sun faded fences. Keeping your home maintained not only adds value in the event you prepare to sell, but it also helps to extend the life of your biggest financial investment.
As your Okanagan real estate professional, I love bringing fresh and fun ideas that help to increase the value of your property and reduce the stress in your homeownership journey. If there’s a specific real estate topic you’d like more information on, please do not hesitate to reach out to me!
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