If you’re considering selling your home this year, there are a few simple things you can do to increase the curb appeal and value of your home. These are ideas that professionals such as real estate agents and home appraisers might suggest, and none of them will put too big of a dent in your pocket. Even if you decide not to sell, it can never hurt to tidy up your property and make your home the envy of the neighborhood.
Clean, Clean, Clean
Cleaning is fun, especially once you get in a groove. The results are quickly apparent, which gives you the instant gratification.
- Start at the top, by cleaning your roof and gutters.
- Remove mold and mildew from siding and trim.
- Wash the windows.
- Power wash walkways.
Cleaning can be done with a pressure washer, cleaning solutions or good old elbow grease. Be prepared to accept a flood of compliments from your neighbors!
Trim, Prune and Weed
Keeping the lawn mowed is a start, but there’s more to it than that when it comes to maintaining a beautiful yard. You don’t need to create a masterpiece, but take a weekend to get caught up on yardwork that has been overlooked. Trim hedges to a friendly height, prune ornamental and fruit trees and aggressively weed the flower beds.
Speaking of Flowers
Nothing brings instant cheer to a home faster than flowers. Annuals sold in packs or flats are inexpensive and give you a huge bang for your buck. Depending on the temperature where you live, plant brightly colored pansies, petunias or geraniums. Keep space between plants to a minimum to make the most visual impact, to reduce weeds and to conserve water.
Beauty Bark Brightens Your Yard
One thing that never seems to go out of style is beauty bark. It can be purchased in bags at most stores or in bulk from a supplier. Another option is to try synthetic bark made from recycled rubber that will not fade and is odor free. Whichever type you prefer, you’ll add instant value to your home by applying it in unplanted areas of your yard.
Tidy Up
There’s a place for everything, and it’s a good idea to put everything in its place. Is your garage too messy to park your car in? Spend a day organizing it. Make sure that bikes, yard tools and other equipment are all tucked away.
By using little bits of your free time or committing an entire weekend to the project, you can increase the value of your home without spending too much money. You’ll get the satisfaction of a job well done and will attract more buyers to your home.