When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter. Whether a buyer is seeing a property for the first time online or in person, they will start to form an opinion before even stepping inside. Before going live with your listing, be sure to review curb appeal ideas and tips for open houses to make sure you make the best possible impression right out of the gate.
Curb appeal is really important to optimize so the property is ready for photographs and any potential showings or open houses. Taking the extra time to maximize curb appeal reflects care and dedication, and will generally help to attract more potential buyers.
The good news? Creating curb appeal generally does not require major renovation to really make your home stand out from others. A few simple updates can create a welcoming exterior that encourages buyers to walk through the front door with excitement.
7 Curb Appeal Tips For Open Houses
1. Freshen Up the Landscaping
One of the simplest tips for open houses a homeowner can do is freshen up the landscaping. Taking the time to mow your yard, clear out garden weeds, trim hedges and edge sidewalks adds the extra touch many potential buyers look for when they first lay eyes on your house. Many of these little touches can be a once a week effort that is minimal, but impactful. A well-maintained yard instantly signals that a home has been cared for.
Depending on the season, some additional ideas for yard spruce ups include:
- Adding fresh mulch around flower beds for a more polished look
- Planting seasonal flowers in planters or garden beds to provide an extra pop of color
- Raking leaves and other debris from trees
- Using wildlife friendly techniques to consolidate debris and create habitat for native critters
While Adirondack open houses are rarer in winter versus warmer months, if your real estate agent decides to do one, make sure walking paths and driveways are clear of snow. This is important for safety, but also to give potential buyers an idea of landscaping and yard layout underneath the snow.
2. Make the Front Door Shine
The next thing that draws a potential buyer’s eye after the yard and landscaping is the exterior of the home. Your front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior. Take the time to really inspect it. If it looks a little rough, it may be time for a touch up. Give the door a fresh coat of paint if needed, polish the hardware, and consider adding a new welcome mat. Also consider adding a seasonal wreath or simple potted plant for extra uncluttered warmth & welcome.
If your property has a portico/ covered porch leading to the front door, make sure that any furniture there is clean and arranged to help the buyer imagine spending time there.. Also give the porch a good scrub or spray down to highlight the area as an additional outdoor living space.
3. Power Wash Exterior Surfaces
Depending on the time of the year, another of the best tips for open houses to consider is power washing exterior surfaces. Over time, dirt and grime can build up on siding, walkways, driveways, and patios. It is smart to stay on top of it, and clean these areas a few times throughout the year.
Spring normally brings pollen and can reveal a build up of road dirt that collected over winter months. Summer brings more pollen, pine needles and dirt building up from yard work. Fall brings broken leaves, small sticks and other organic debris that are more difficult to pick up and can start to accumulate. A thorough power washing can make your home look newer and brighter with minimal effort and cost.
4. Clean the Windows
While power washing your exterior can remove most exterior dirt and grime, it can linger in certain areas. Windows in particular can require some extra effort. Be sure to set aside extra time to really make your windows sparkle. This extra step on both the exterior and interior will create clear windows that not only improve curb appeal, but also allow more natural light into the home.
5. Update Outdoor Lighting
Another minimal effort job that boosts curb appeal is checking on your outdoor lighting. Flip all switches to on and do a walk around of your property to see if any lights are out and how dirty fixtures may be. If you find any burnt-out bulbs, replace them. While you are at the fixture, give it a good wipe down and remove any debris or nests.
While a bulbs-out lighting situation outside your home may not bother you, unlit bulbs may cause potential buyers to question if there is an electrical problem. If you want to go a little above minimal effort, consider upgrading outdoor lighting fixtures. This can be really impactful if your fixtures are outdated or don’t fit the style of the home. Spending a little money to upgrade can give your home a more modern appearance.
Pay close attention to tips for open houses suggested by your local real estate pro. If your agent decides to do an afternoon/ evening open house, they will definitely want to turn on all exterior lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Lights on will also highlight your landscape and any outdoor spaces that are commonly enjoyed during the warmer months in the Adirondacks.
6. Declutter the Porch and Yard
As previously mentioned with front entry tips for open houses, make sure your porches and patios are de-cluttered. Staging is a great way to showcase outdoor spaces, but if they are filled with random clutter, it is a turn off for a potential buyers. Make sure buyers can freely walk the space and imagine spending time there.
Once you’ve freshened up the landscaping, be sure that tools and hoses are neatly put away in a shed or storage area. Before an open house, make sure that toys and unnecessary decorations are also put away. Too many items can distract a buyer and tripping over toys can also create a safety hazard. The goal is to have the buyers envision themselves enjoying the space, and a tidy exterior helps them do just that.
7. Don’t Forget the Details
Sometimes small touches lead to big impact when it comes to real estate. Some buyers may already have preconceived thoughts on styling or minor things like paint color. Other buyers may have no aesthetic or styling goals, but want something that looks put together. Discovering small details that complete the aesthetic can help buyers appreciate the home’s potential and how their furnishings or artwork may fit there.
Make sure your house numbers are easy to read, your mailbox is in good condition, and fences or gates are freshly painted if needed. Even replacing worn hardware, touching up chipped paint or finally fixing the lock that sticks can elevate your home’s appearance to potential buyers.
Next Steps To Max Your Curb Appeal and Open House Experience
Whether you are preparing for an open house or just creating a welcoming property for regular showings, improving curb appeal is one of the best things you can do to help sell or generate interest in a property. Preparing for both styles of showings is all about showcasing your home’s best features, and that starts before buyers ever step inside. Investing a little time to improve your home’s curb appeal and following our tips for open houses can help attract more interest, both in person and online. Additionally, if done right, good curb appeal can create a memorable first impression and potentially lead to stronger offers.
If you’re thinking about selling your home, Adirondack Premier Properties’ expert team would be happy to provide personalized recommendations on how to prepare your property for today’s market. Sometimes, the smallest improvements can make the biggest difference.
Reach out to one of our local and knowledgeable real estate agents who will help you jumpstart your real estate journey. Contact us here or call 518-523-3333 today!