My Indiana Home Blog

First, in order to have buyers perceive your home as having "curb appeal", you need to look at your property objectively and creatively (as a buyer would) before you begin this project. Your ultimate goal is to improve the appearance and appeal of your property, have those buyers saying "WOW".

Walk to the front of your house with a pen and paper, positiion yourself where buyers would first see your home. Ask yourself, what looks good? What looks bad? Make sure your checklist includes the following: Yard-Debris, Litter, Hoses, Garbage cans, Fences tidy. Lawn-Mow, rake, edge, weed & feed. Planting area- Mulch, Water, Weed/Trim, Flowers/Pots. Trees/Shrubs- Prune, Water. Entry Area/Walks- Unclutter, Sweep/Wash, Touch-up paint, Lights work, Doorbell works. Driveway- Clear of excess vehicles/objects, Room to park, Gravel/Concrete, fill holes, Garage doors, tidy appearance. After you've made this checklist, go down and mark the items that need attention. Beside each item write down words that indicate what you might do to make this area more appealing. Use this check list as an organizational tool and a way to check your progress.

Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of money to have a nice yard! A yard that is neat, cheery and well-maintained is something that will appeal to a buyer.  And believe me, buyers will notice! Also, the strategic use of color (small annual plantings, hanging bastets, etc) and form (careful pruning, accent items liek decorative borders, trellises and shutters, etc.) can transform even a modest yard into a substantial asset.

Keep in mind the following:

- The area around your house should be neat and tidy. Pick up litter, toys, bicycles, etc. Rake fallen leaves. Remove anything that is a distraction.

- Keep the lawn mowed adn the planting areas weeded and watered. Mulch the planting areas to keep the weeds down, and add colorful blooming flowers for a welcoming impression.

- Keep your front entry and walk-ways clean and uncluttered.

- Make sure your paint isn't pealing or chipping on the house so that it significantly detracts from the appearance, repaint if you can afford it. Try to choose a neutral colored paint that is more acceptable to everyone. Walk or drive around different neighborhoods for paint and trim color ideas! You can always get a professional opinion as well. Get it right the first time!

- Make sure your doorbell and porch lights work properly.

-Prune overgrown trees and shrubs. They make a house appear darker than normal. Your front entry should be visible from the street or driveway.

- Check your roof! If you have concerns about your roof, get a professional opinion. Roofs are easily damaged, dangerous to work on, and can be a costly repair or replacement.