Top 12 Landscaping Ideas for Better Curb Appeal

You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

“Curb appeal,” the impression a buyer gets from an initial visit; often a determining factor between a quick sale and a home lingering on the market.

1. Spruce up your lawn. Make sure your grass is clean, green, and weed free. Lay new sod if necessary.
2. Prune. Trees and shrubs increase curb appeal. If they block the entrance, prune and remove dead growth.
3. Address. Make sure it’s clear and visible.
4. Cheer up. Add splashes of color with seasonal flowers in beds and pots to give the home a bright, cheery look.
5. Mmmm, what’s that smell? Add fragrance by planting jasmine and gardenias. Nothing like a sweet scent to make a great first impression.
6. Mulch. Add cedar mulch for an elegant, well-maintained look. It cuts down on weeds and protects root systems, which means less maintenance for you.
7. Sweep. Be sure to keep the entry to your home free of any debris, cobwebs, etc.
8. Light it up. Nighttime curb appeal is important. Add exterior lighting for warmth and drama. A well-lit walkway is inviting, suggests a feeling of security. Up lighting large trees creates an impression of space.
9. Clean your gutters. Make sure they’re in good repair.
10. Pressure clean. Scrub your sidewalks, front walk, driveway, decks and all exterior siding.
11. Use Windex. Make sure your windows are squeaky clean.
12. Lose the clutter. Store all tools and equipment completely out of sight.

Questions to Ask:

Before listing your home, walk across the street. Use a critical eye to assess its curb appeal. Be objective.

• Wow Factor. Does it have the “wow factor” that sets it apart from other homes on the market?
• Is it clean, neat and inviting?
• Is the front door visible and welcoming?
• Do you like what you see?

No? Remember, most buyers are looking for a home in as close to a “move in” condition as possible. Enhancing its drive-by appeal is one of the most important things you can do. Most of the items listed above are simple, relatively inexpensive, will provide you with a healthy return on investment and just might get your home sold faster.

Hounchell Real Estate-RE/MAX Metro, the leader in general real estate, pre-foreclosure, short sale and foreclosure markets in the St. Petersburg, Tampa, Fl area. Contact us today at 727-642-9107.