Curb Appeal & Landscaping Tips
If you are even considering selling in the next 12-18 months.
Start your landscaping projects now. (these are not the same as gardening project) Plant shrubs, bushes, trees now; this gives them time to establish. Lush and established plants, trees and lawns go a long way for selling a home starting with photos.
Yes, ideally there would not be any tree stakes - especially if the home was build more than 5 years ago.
This is also a good time to hire a lawn care service - more than mowing - you’re looking for a company that will apply fertilizer, ensure there are no weeds as well as fertilize trees and shrubs.
Think evergreen.
Think evergreen when planting. Bright flowers are great and can go in pots to be strategically placed drawing attention to details of the property. Lush varying shades of natural greens make the ideal backdrop for any property.
This is not the time for variety.
Depending on the size of your outdoor spaces, pick between 2 and 5 types of shrubs, bushes and/or trees and repeat them in both the front and back yards this gives a cohesive intentional feeling that also will make the yards and outdoor living spaces feel larger.
The playscape.
Unless the playscape/swing set is in fabulous condition I suggest having it removed. If that is not an option then have it stained/painted and replace any faded accessory pieces with them replacement all with the accessories of the same color.
What are your digits?
In this area many house numbers are on the mailbox. Have you ever had yours repainted? Take a peek - if it is at all faded have it repainted. This will cost between $15 and $25 and is absolutely money well spent. Side note: Its important the number is clearly visible for emergency services to locate the property.
Speaking of mailboxes.
If you have the type of mailbox that is on a post (usually wooden set in cement) and you have not replaced it in the last 3 years, now is the time to do it. It’s shocking how much a new post and mail box can make.
If your post is wood - remove as much grass and dirt from around the base as you reasonably can. Saw the post off as low to the ground as you can get, cover it dirt and grass (I suggest getting 2 pieces of sod). You can then install the new post and mailbox a few feet away - give yourself enough room to dig without hitting the cement base of the old mailbox. Always call 811 BEFORE digging. I can honestly say that I have never found this (vital) step to cause a delay for my project - they are surprising fast and easy to work with.
Front entry.
Consider refinishing your front entry doors. The cost is a fraction of replacing the doors and will make a drastic difference toward getting your home Listing Launch ready.