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Health & Fitness

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD: CURB APPEAL FOR LESS

As a child, my parents never tired of packing us into the car on lazy Sunday afternoons so that we could spend the day perusing through some of the wealthier neighborhoods and admire the expansive houses within.  I loved looking at their beautifully manicured gardens and often used to imagine staring up at the clouds from their lush, green lawns.  In the real estate market, we call this “curb appeal,” but while somewhat cliché, the goal of any seller is to help potential buyers feel the same sense of longing and awe that I felt all those years ago.

Two weeks ago, I wrote about the versatility of paint when it comes to reviving your kitchen and the same can be said for your home’s outer accoutrements.  Assuming your home isn’t overly large; a standard gallon of outdoor paint will only cost about $25 and should go a long way when it comes to adding bold color to your trim, shutters, or front door.

With this, look into upgrading that mailbox which currently matches everyone else on the road.  Honestly, it may not seem like a big deal, but with a price tag of only $10-$100, a unique mailbox aids in making the entire house feel as if it’s a step above the competition.

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Additionally, pay attention to your house numbers.  Old or faded digits can not only make your home difficult to find, but if you’re not careful, it may also send a message to buyers that you lack a certain attention to detail.  For a fresh look, purchase numbers (most start at $2.00/number) made from stainless steel, brass, or aluminum and try to match them to the finish on your exterior light fixtures. 

However, if you find that your light fixtures are out-of-date; this is another cost-effective area where you can really up the value of your home without spending too much.  Many models can be found for as low as $20, so look for ones that add style but also properly light your entryway.

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Lastly, even if you’ve never had a green thumb, seek out the nearest garden center and get some advice on easily maintainable flowers and plants, which will bring some color and life to your yard.  Further, if you happen to be lacking a tree or two, many start out at only $25, so consider adding them in an effort to really frame the picture you’re trying to create.

As with anything else, the goal is to make your yard interesting and inviting for potential buyers.  Frankly, while our tastes mature, that childhood fascination with pretty things tends to remain with us.  At the end of the day, we all want to pull into our driveway and feel like we’re coming home to something beautiful, so never forget that when buyers are shopping, they are looking for the same thing.


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