Selling a home is never easy, whether you do it for quick cash during an emergency or meticulously plan it for an upgrade (or downsizing). Either way, you may struggle to set your property apart in the competitive real estate landscape. However, the challenge hardly dissuades them, considering the statistics showing the sale of 4.3 million existing homes in the US in 2023.
While there are no shortcuts to selling fast and securing a good deal, the first impression matters. Research by Strutt & Parker suggests that 76% of buyers believe first impressions are everything when visiting properties, while 66% agree they are vital when viewing them online. That means most buyers decide whether they want to buy a home even before entering it.
A quick outdoor makeover for your home can give you a winning advantage as a homeowner looking to sell. However, the investment of time and money it may require sounds stressful. Worry not because we have a few easy and affordable outdoor improvement tips to give your property a facelift.
Refresh the Roof
A well-maintained roof enhances the overall appearance and structural integrity of a property, making it desirable to buyers. Before listing your home for sale, inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, and leaks. Address any issues promptly because the slightest damage can cause safety concerns for existing and potential residents.
Remember to check the fascia board along the roofline because it can make or break the appearance of the roof. Repaint the entire fascia if it looks dull or replace the rotted or deteriorated sections as required. A refreshed roof and fascia board creates a good impression regarding the maintenance and longevity of your property.
According to Belco Forest Products, fascia boards hold the parts of the roof together by supporting the soffit and gutters when they are filled with rainwater. The material should be strong and bearable to bear such a load and sustain the impact of the elements.
Enhance Your Landscaping
Landscaping seems like an insignificant aspect of outdoor makeovers, but it can be a game-changer. Real estate data shows that 100% of landscape maintenance and tree care costs are recovered at the time of sale. The best part is that you can make the most of it with simple measures like mowing the lawn, removing any weeds, and trimming overgrown bushes.
Adding colorful plants and flowers brings a pop of color for visual interest. You can consider incorporating decorative stones to define planting areas and create a polished look. Also, prune shrubs and trees to maintain a tidy appearance. Remember to eliminate clutter such as old furniture and broken pots.
Update Exterior Fixtures
Another quick and low-cost addition to making your home sale-worthy is updating the outdated exterior fixtures. Consider replacing elements like outdoor lighting, door hardware, mailbox, and house numbers with modern fixtures to give your home a fresh look. It will hardly cost you a few hundred dollars, but you can expect an offer higher by thousands with this small expense.
Pick fixtures that complement your property’s architectural style and color scheme. Also, prioritize LED outdoor lighting to give the impression of an energy-efficient home. Energy efficiency is a significant plus as such homes sell for 2.7% more compared to conventional ones, as reported by EcoWatch. Nine out of ten buyers are willing to buy a more expensive home if it has energy-efficient features.
Upgrade Your Entryway
Besides updating the outdated exterior fixtures, upgrading your entryway can add value to your property. Include it in the makeover project to create a welcoming and inviting ambiance. You can consider repainting or replacing your front door according to your budget. Pick a vibrant color that goes well with your home’s exterior.
Add a stylish doorknob or knocker for a stylish touch. You may skip your nameplate to depersonalize the space. Install outdoor lighting fixtures to brighten up the entryway. You can set up potted plants to create a welcoming appearance for the entryway. These simple steps hardly require hefty investments of time, effort, and money.
Create an Outdoor Living Space
With outdoor entertainment being the favorite pastime for Americans, decks, porches, and patios are popular features homeowners want. Statistics show that the number of single-family homes with outdoor features has risen gradually since 2011. Over a million single-family houses with them were completed in 2022.
Outdoor living spaces are great for relaxation and entertainment, making them a plus for buyers. If you already have a patio or deck, stage it with outdoor furniture and greenery. Remember to clean and declutter these areas to maximize their potential. Sellers not having such spaces can get creative with installations like garden umbrellas and canopies on a small budget.
In conclusion, sprucing up your outdoor space can pay off significantly when selling your home. All you need to do is invest some time, effort, and money in these quick outdoor makeover tips. You don’t have to break the bank, yet you have a chance to sell fast and get a good offer.