1. Paint exterior doors, trim and shutters
Freshen the shutters, trim and front door by splashing on a fresh coat of paint. This is a great time to add a swatch of color to a neutral exterior that helps it pop to prospective homebuyers. If you need professional help, the cost of a small paint project averages between $600 and $800.
How to choose a house color that works
2. Accent sidewalk and drive with lighting
If you have a showing in the evenings, outdoor lighting can accent your home exterior and light the path to the front door. The best method is to install landscape lighting along the sidewalk or driveway. Consider installing LED lights or solar-paneled lamps to save on electricity.
3. Add art to the lawn
Garden art can help to really sell the front lawn, if homeowners place the right pieces. Although gnomes might not be best, windmills, rock gardens or wireframe animals could add to the landscape. This Old House lists various ways for homeowners to create a secret garden with cheap art, including a do-it-yourself leaf birdbath, recycled bricks and iron rings.
4. Clean up the yard
A green, well-maintained yard should be the key selling point when buyers drive up. Shrubs, trees, flower beds and the lawn need to be in top shape to complement the home exterior. If homeowners don’t want to worry about maintenance, they can hire landscaping professionals
5. Wash the siding and walkway
Snowstorms and other winter weather patterns often cover driveways and siding in dirt and grime, which decreases the exterior appeal. Homeowners can remedy this by washing those areas down.
6. Throw in more colors
If the snow or deep freezes might have killed some plants, homeowners can plant new flowers of various colors to brighten the front yard and increase curb appeal. Better Homes and Gardens released a list of the must-grow trees, shrubs and vines for 2014 with types to fit any kind of landscape such as hydrangeas, magnolias and lilacs.
source: realestatemns.com
