How To Make The Most of Spring Curb Appeal

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 63% of homebuyers will drop by after viewing a home they like online. If your home isn't alluring from the outside, potential buyers may never schedule a showing to see the desirable features within it. Here are some tips to create a first impression that may lead to a sale this spring.

• Under pressure - Pressure washing is budget-friendly way to dramatically improve a home's exterior. Dingy siding, mildewed decks, faded walkways and oil-stained driveways can be returned to pristine condition.
• Contain yourself - Consider investing in container plants. Arranging them around the yard and entryway is a quick way to brighten up a space and create a splash of color.
• Get rid of gutter clutter - Clean your gutters. Often leaves, branches and debris may be visible from the street.
• Open up - Homes with open your curtains often look brighter and more inviting.
• Enjoy the view - Clean windows speak for themselves.
• Lighten up - Outdoor lighting is aesthetically pleasing and provides visual aid in the dark.
• Quick fixes - Updated hardware, such as doorknobs, lighting and even the mailbox, can greatly enhance an entryway.
• Store more - Put away any tools, toys, bikes etc. out of sight so they do not detract from the home.
• Repair and renew - Improve the obvious by filling in sidewalk cracks, fixing screen doors, and touching up any paint that is chipped.
• Tidy up - Remember to rake the leaves and trim the hedges to give the yard a boost.

How to wow potential buyers with your open house this Spring.

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, sellers enjoy a bump in home sales during the spring and summer months. There are several factors that lead to the rise in sales; children are on summer break, the holiday season is over, ideal weather for visiting homes, and overall,  schedules are often more flexible. Parents are more likely to coordinate a move during the summer months, especially when a move entails changing schools. Also, packing and unpacking  moving vans is much easier when you don’t have to contend with cold temperatures or ice and  snow!

Take advantage of the market upswing and make the most of your spring open house. Capitalize on curb appeal and ensure your landscape is up-to-date. A newly mowed lawn and freshly planted flowers make a great first impression that potential buyers will remember. Remove any clutter that may detract from your outdoor space, such as toys, bikes or gardening tools. Clean outdoor furniture so buyers can linger and if you have a pool make sure it is clean and inviting.

Once inside, potential buyers get to see your home in the natural light, so clean those screens, windows and sliding glass doors inside and out! As with every open house, no matter what the season, your house should be clean and organized, smell fresh and personal photos kept at a minimum. Attention to detail goes a long way, so fix that creaky door, tighten that loose floorboard, and paint over any scuffmarks. Lastly, remember to serve refreshments, think fresh pies to celebrate the season!