Does Your Curb Appeal?
30 07 2008
When is the last time you considered such a question? Sure you find it easy to walk up to your own front door without reservation. After all, it’s your home. But if you plan to sell soon, would a potential buyer find it just as easy or inviting? Apart from the proud-to-be-a-Texan star that adorns the entry and the old welcome-doormat that’s been greeting visitors for the past 5 years, what is it that creates your home’s curb appeal?
I’ve been working diligently with my seller-clients lately to get their homes in the best showing condition as possible prior to going on the market. Some understand the importance of this step in the selling process, yet others don’t. Usually the ones that don’t end up taking much longer to sell. (The photo above represents the former group. These clients get it and the photo evidences the fact).
Curb appeal will ultimately determine the buyer’s first and last impressions. It’s the first thing they notice when they approach the front door from the street. And the last, because they usually leave the way they entered. So, if you get the first impression right, chances are it will be reinforced when a buyer leaves the home as well. Conversely, if the first impression is lacking, then you guessed it. They’ll be reminded of the fact upon leaving the home after a viewing.
One of my buyer-clients has said to me multiple times in the past week while viewing homes, “I really wanted to like that house. I really did.” Unfortunately the sellers missed their opportunity. In today’s market, sellers will need to leverage every tool possible to get their desired result. The best way to start is by asking the simple question, “does your curb appeal?”
