Are We Forgetting The Value Of Curb Appeal?
This is just an observation, but what's happened to the concept of curb appeal when selling property these days?
I realize that times are tough, sellers are sometimes in less than ideal financial positions, and many properties are facing some kind of distress sale (foreclosure or short sale). So, taking care of the exterior of a property may not be high on a seller's agenda -- especially if the property is bank owned or if the seller is out of town and has to pay someone to look after the exterior of the property.
But let's go back to basic selling principles for a moment. A piece of real estate has to make a good first impression on a potential buyer. If it doesn't, the buyer may lose interest before they even walk through the front door.
Sellers today need to take extra effort to be sure their curb appeal is absolutely top notch-- especially if the house is vacant, bank owned or in foreclosure. This includes lawn mowing and edging, hedge and tree trimming, mulch in the flower beds, and watering as needed. If the front door needs replacing, replace it! If the mailbox is broken, get a new one. If you need new lighting fixtures on the front porch and along the walkways, install them. If you need to paint something, paint it. Your property will likely sell faster and for a higher price if it looks to be in good condition. Curb appeal is what gives buyers that "looked after" impression about your property.
No matter what the circumstances of the sale, a house only gets one chance to make a good first impression. Sellers need to make sure that impression is positive.
I realize that times are tough, sellers are sometimes in less than ideal financial positions, and many properties are facing some kind of distress sale (foreclosure or short sale). So, taking care of the exterior of a property may not be high on a seller's agenda -- especially if the property is bank owned or if the seller is out of town and has to pay someone to look after the exterior of the property.
But let's go back to basic selling principles for a moment. A piece of real estate has to make a good first impression on a potential buyer. If it doesn't, the buyer may lose interest before they even walk through the front door.
Sellers today need to take extra effort to be sure their curb appeal is absolutely top notch-- especially if the house is vacant, bank owned or in foreclosure. This includes lawn mowing and edging, hedge and tree trimming, mulch in the flower beds, and watering as needed. If the front door needs replacing, replace it! If the mailbox is broken, get a new one. If you need new lighting fixtures on the front porch and along the walkways, install them. If you need to paint something, paint it. Your property will likely sell faster and for a higher price if it looks to be in good condition. Curb appeal is what gives buyers that "looked after" impression about your property.
No matter what the circumstances of the sale, a house only gets one chance to make a good first impression. Sellers need to make sure that impression is positive.
-30-
posted by Terry Ward at 3:53 AM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home