Selling a property can be very stressful, particularly when you have to sell in a hurry. If dealing with agents and potential buyers for months on end is not your idea of fun, there are certain things you can do to sell your home faster. One of the most important and underrated things is to maximise your curb appeal. Remember that you only get one chance to make a good impression, and the external view of your home speaks volumes about the interior as well. This is why you have to find a way to make it look attractive and welcoming to prospective buyers and to draw them into the home for a viewing.
- Give your front door a makeover: An important focal point of the home is the front entrance, and if your front door has peeling paint or looks worn out it will discourage buyers. Paint your front door, perhaps even with an eye-catching (but not gory!) colour, or buy a new custom wood door. Ensure that any dirty spots are cleaned off and if necessary replace the door knob.
- Update old hardware: Replace old house numbers, the entrance door lock and knob, replace an old mailbox, and ensure that all the overhead lights are cleaned and that they work properly. If possible, try to find a central theme and look for these items, such as using only bronze fittings that will create a collective aesthetic that is more appealing.
- Create a garden: Any home appears more welcoming and colourful when it has a garden. Adding an instant garden in places where colour is needed is quick and easy – get some pots with flowers and add them to the landscape. Staggered, symmetrical arrangements work better as they create an impression of order, such as plants on both sides of the front door. Window boxes with flowers and potted herbs outside the kitchen also work well. The best part is that once you have sold the home, you can take them with you!
- Tidy up the garden: Ensure that the lawn is mowed and that the grass around the garden path is neatly trimmed away from the path and remove any weeds. Freshen up your garden beds by adding new mulch and perhaps some new flowers, and prune where necessary. Ensure the borders around the beds are clean and neatly trimmed.
- Fresh gutters: Old, broken or tattered gutters and downpipes are an immediate deal-breaker. Ensure that all the gutters are in good condition and clean out the leaves. If required, paint the gutters and downpipes, and ensure all the drains are clean and tidy.
These are only a few easy and relatively cheap things you can do in one day to increase your curb appeal. By doing these you can speed up your sale!