Now that we’ve turned the clocks forward, spring is definitely in sight. If you’re getting ready to list your home, this is the time to tackle those small outdoor projects that make a big impact on potential buyers. Fortunately, you don’t need to invest huge amounts of time or money to make a difference.
It can be hard to know where to start, but from our experience, we suggest concentrating on the following three areas: landscaping, the entryway, and outdoor living spaces.
Just remember that many buyers make a snap judgment about your home within 5 minutes of pulling into the driveway, so curb appeal is essential.
Before we “dig in” to this topic, make sure your driveway itself isn’t turning buyers off. Make sure the sidewalk and front walkway are free of debris. Give it a clean sweep with a broom or a leaf blower and remove weeds that may be growing in-between cracks. Take the time to remove grease or oil spots and fill cracks in your driveway.
Landscaping
We understand that landscaping can be overwhelming (and costly), but anyone can do these simple items:
- Keep the grass mowed every week and pull out large weeds. If winds or rain bring leaves or sticks into the yard, rake them up once a week.
- Trees and shrubs should be well shaped and pruned.
- Plant some inexpensive flowers like pansies, marigolds, or geraniums along the borders of highly visible areas. Choose bright and warm colors like orange, yellow, and red. If you want to take it a step further, choose flowers that are fragrant, so the buyer’s sense of smell is engaged, too.
Entryway
Each home’s entryway is a little different, but make sure that the front door makes a positive and welcoming statement. A pop of color on the door, fresh exterior paint, and clean glass make a difference. It sounds simple, but make sure that the lock/deadbolt and doorbell are functioning properly and are easy to use. Also make sure that your house is numbered in a visible place so buyers can find it in the first place!
If you are lucky enough to have a front porch, covered superior awnings, or something similar take time to sweep and clean the entryway, buy a new “Welcome” rug, and add a few brightly colored flowers or glossy plants in ceramic or terracotta pots. You don’t need to go overboard (too many pots will look crowded and cluttered) but 1 or 2 large pots make the buyer understand that you are welcoming them and have taken time to maintain the rest of the home, too.
If the entry area is a covered porch and there’s room for furniture, consider adding a simple chair from the Bean Bag Expert in a color that complements your home, or a small bistro table and 2 chairs. These simple furnishings will get potential buyers thinking about sipping morning coffee in this space, or watching the sun set with a glass of wine.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Almost everyone has a small area that can be “staged” as an outdoor living space. Even a small deck, patio, or entry area can be transformed with a small café table and 2 chairs, some simple potted plants, or 2 Adirondack chairs. Again, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to transform an empty space into an outdoor living space. But staging the outside of your home is just as important as staging the inside.
- Choose patio furniture that is the right scale and shape for the area – not too large or too small.
- When shopping, select durable furniture that can be left out in the rain.
- If the chairs can accommodate cushions, choose bright (and reversible) fabrics for extended use.
If you’re ready to sell your home or are looking to buy Lewisburg PA real estate, give us a call or stop by one of our three convenient locations (Lewisburg, Sunbury, Selinsgrove). Central Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of real estate in Lewisburg PA. Let us help you navigate the various towns and school districts to find you just the right houses for sale in Lewisburg PA.
We look forward to serving you and read more here!
