IBS91008-10

IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT BOOST CURB APPEAL

"Curb appeal". You've probably heard that term used before. It refers to how valuable and enticing your house looks from the outside, typically from the perspective of a potential buyer "standing on the curb".

Many people focus on preparing the inside of their house for sale, and neglect preparing the outside.This is amistake. Studies confirm that curb appeal has a huge influence over how quickly your house will sell, and for how much.

How do you improve curb appeal?

You don't need to do a major landscaping renovation! In fact, small improvements often make the biggest difference...improvements you can easily do over a weekend.

Here are some suggestions:

• Clean the outside of front windows.Make them sparkle!
• Remove grass,weeds and other unwanted growth between driveway and walkway stones.
• Prune shrubs and trim trees.
• Re-sod bare spots on the lawn.
• Edge the lawn. (A simple task that can have a dramatic visual impact.)
• Water the flowerbed. (Flowers look brighter and more healthy within one hour of watering.)
• Sweep the walkway and driveway. Rake the leaves.
• Remove signs such as "Beware of dog" and"No solicitations".
• Check the welcome mat. If it's worn or dirty, replace it.

Also, consider buying some attractive potted flowers to put near the entranceway.They are worth the investment.

As you can see, it doesn't take much to boost the curb appeal of your house. Just a little work and a few added details will make a big difference.

Needmore ideas for increasing the"sales appeal"of your house?

Call me today, 416.562.4415.

BUYING A HOME THAT NEEDS WORK

When you're shopping for a new home,you may come across properties that require repairs or renovation. Are these houses worth the added expense? Will you get your money back if you decide to sell the house in the future?  According to market studies, certain renovations and repairs do add more value to a home than the repairs typically cost. These include kitchen and bathroom renovations, new or improved landscaping, and electrical and plumbing repairs.