We all know how important first impressions can be in life, people, places, smells and the feel of somethings, it a “ gut “ reaction, and this is certainly true when it comes to putting your property on the market.
The initial impression of a property and its surrounding area can have a huge impact on potential buyers.
What is / What does “Kurb appeal” even mean ?
Well in essence its that drive by, first impression; how does the property look. and feel. Having a strong kerb appeal can make your home a much more attractive option for buyers.
Kerb appeal is important as it can be a decisive factor for potential buyers. According to the HomeOwners Alliance, 68% of all buyers say that they are swayed by their initial impression of a property, and that it has a lasting effect on their perception of it.
Even if you aren’t looking to sell your property immediately, giving the exterior of your house a tidy up, or redesign can make it feel more homely and add a more welcoming presence to any visitors, or passers-by. It will also save you a job for when you decide to put your property on the market, as kerb appeal can have a significant impact on potential buyers.
Ways to improve kerb appeal
Revamp the front door The front door of your home is the main focal point as your potential buyer approaches the property, you need it to look appealing. A damaged front door, or one that is in a poor state of repair will likely be an instant red flag for buyers, and could stop a viewing, or at least give an impress, saying “ if it looks poor from outside, what the inside like…….well, not for me, I’m looking for a well kept home”
Giving your front door a fresh coat of paint can help to bring your property to life. With a nice-looking entrance point, perhaps a handing basket, or some pots, winter or summer, buyers are more likely to have a positive first impression and be more inclined to keep that perception throughout the rest of the viewing.
Give driveways and patios some attention
As driveways and patios will likely be part of the first area people see / pass through, it’s important that they are maintained and kept looking good. Paths, driveways and patios can get grubby over time, so they need to be cleaned every once in a while. For larger areas, it’s a good idea to use a pressure washer to clean off any dirt or grubbiness. Being over run with weeds, also not good, again a few minutes work can make a massive difference to the look.
Hide the rubbish bins
Of course, every household needs bins, but it can’t be denied that they aren’t exactly appealing. If you don’t have anywhere to store your bins, it could be worth purchasing a bin shed to store them in. As Acres will, make sure your agent gets them out of the way for the pictures, and the car off the drive, you’d be amazed how many Agents don’t, thus not really assisting the seller with that first impression.
Make pathways tidier
Similarly to driveways and patios, it’s important that pathways around the outside of your house are maintained and kept in a good condition. You easily can give pathways a clean down with a power washer or a scrubbing brush and hot water. You should also make sure that your pathways are free of potholes or bumps, so it’s accessible for people in wheelchairs as well as families with pushchairs.
Improve exterior paintwork
If the exterior of your house is looking worn or damaged, it is highly recommended that you give it a touch up, or new coat of paint. A freshly painted house can improve its aesthetic and therefore its kerb appeal ten-fold. Touching up the exteriors of window frames with a new coat of paint can also add a bit extra to your home and leave it looking pristine from the outside.
Fix broken gutters, gates and fences
Damaged gutters, unhinged gates and broken fences are all likely to give off a negative perception to any potential buyer, so it’s essential that these details are fixed. Taking time to fix these problems yourself can make your home look more presentable whilst also adding additional security for your property.
Clean windows
This is a simple job you can do which will make the exterior of your home look much cleaner. You can either give it a go yourself or hire window cleaner, either way, having fresh shining windows will add more kerb appeal to the exterior of your property.
Keep on top of vegetation and lawns
Overgrowing vegetation can leave your garden looking untidy so giving any bushes, vegetation and grass a cut can leave your outdoor space looking more presentable. Trimming any tall bushes or trees you may have will also allow more light into your garden which is more welcoming to any potential buyers you have that are coming to view the property.
Refresh gravelled areas
Gravelled areas can easily be diminished over time and can be left looking bare or unfinished. Adding in some new gravel to paths or driveways can add a more finished look to your outdoor area. Using a garden rake to even out the gravel and get rid of any bumps or holes can make easy work of the job.
If you have a visible garage door, consider upgrading it to a more aesthetically pleasing one. Alternatively, you can paint the existing door to freshen its look
So, in summary poor kerb appeal can dissuade a potential buyer before they have even stepped foot in the property. Remember, the exterior of the property is the very first thing the buyer will see. In a worst-case scenario, the buyer may not even choose to go inside the property.
You are not going to attract the same pool of potential buyers if your home doesn’t have much appeal. Potential buyers could be immediately put off just when looking through the photos of your home on line if the kerb appeal is poor.
If you would like to discuss selling your home, our proactive approach and ideas please get in touch with us; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:
Four Oaks 0121 323 3088
Sutton Coldfield 0121 321 2101
Walmley 0121 313 2888
Great Barr 0121 358 6222
Lettings 0121 312 4997
Thank you for reading our latest article, your interest in Acres, and our property for sale.
Nigel & Jayne Deekes – Acres Partners
