You’ve probably heard of the term ‘Curb Appeal’ as it comes up a lot in real estate. This refers to the buyers first impressions of your property. A positive, good first impression helps set the tone for the rest of their showing. Interested in boosting your curl appeal? Here are some great tips on how to easily improve the curb appear of your home.

• Clean both the inside and outside of the front windows on your home. You’ll be amazed at the difference it can make.
• Sweep the walkway leading up to the front entrance and clear away any yard debris. And wash down the front door. Plus consider adding a new clean welcome mat.
• If possible, remove cars from the driveway. Let buyers picture their own cars there.
• Mow the lawn, clean up leaves or other yard debris, lightly trim the hedges and clear the weeds from your flower beds.
• Remove anything from inside window sills that may look unsightly from the outside. Instead, try putting a couple of flowering plants there.
• Place trash and recycling bins out-of-sight. For example, put them in the garage, shed or neatly at the side of the house.
• If the entrance door hardware is old and worn, change it. New hardware can make a bigger difference than you might think.
• Make sure the indoor and outdoor lights are working, especially if you’re showing your home in the evening.
• Add some flowering plants to flower beds or buy a couple of portable potted plants and place them strategically.
• Clean your mailbox. If it’s rusted, replace it. This can help give a positive first impression.
• If you have a power washer, give the walkway and driveway a quick blast. Just be sure it will be dry before the buyers arrive.

These one-hour improvements may seem minor, but anything that helps buyers form a more positive first impression of your home is worth the effort.

If you’re thinking about selling and have questions about getting your home ready, email me at [email protected] or call 416-889-8916.