Preparing to place your home on the market is exciting, as you can earn a profit by making your home more attractive to buyers. Unfortunately, some homeowners don’t take time to prepare for the sales process and receive lower offers than they’d hoped for. One of the best ways to maximize your home’s value is to improve curb appeal before listing.
Order a Pre-Listing Inspection
When was the last time a professional home inspector examined your house? Most homeowners only have the property inspected before moving in. There could be years or decades of problems present without your knowledge.
During a pre-listing home inspection, a professional inspects every component inside and outside the house, including the roof, plumbing, siding, decks, patios, and grading. The inspector will identify problems and repairs you could make to increase the value of your home and avoid lengthy negotiations with the buyer. If there are issues that could be remedied to improve curb appeal, they will be outlined in the inspection report.
Improve the Landscaping to Boost Curb Appeal
One of the best ways to improve curb appeal is investing in landscaping around the property. The lawn is the first thing prospective buyers see when they drive by or pull up for a showing. Some of the best ways to make your home more attractive are:
- Fertilize, aerate, and re-seed the lawn in the months leading up to listing the home. The grass will be green, healthy, and lush when the property hits the market.
- Trim shrubs and bushes, so they don’t block windows or doors. The shrubbery should look neat to convince buyers the home is well cared for.
- Edge the garden beds, walkways, and around the perimeter of the lawn.
- Add a fresh layer of mulch to flower beds and beneath trees and shrubs.
Give the Entryway a Makeover to Improve Curb Appeal
Aside from the landscaping, your house’s front door and entryway are things a buyer will see as they approach. There are plenty of affordable ways to improve curb appeal quickly and easily. Paint the front door, sanding it first to remove chips, scuffs, and marks. Install new, modern house numbers that can be seen from the street, so buyers have an easy time finding your home. Place potted plants on the front porch or to either side of the door. Hanging baskets add greenery and make the porch feel warm and welcoming. Purchase a new welcome mat for inside and out. A current trend is to layer two doormats, a decorative print beneath with functional coir or rubber doormat on top.
Monadnock Home Inspections provides inspection services, including pre-listing inspections, in southern New Hampshire. Contact us to schedule an appointment.