Summer is in full swing and that means those pesky outdoor maintenance projects you put off during the colder months are fair game again. You might be considering new exterior paint color, fresh landscaping, or new patio furniture, but which projects have the biggest payoff?
"Curb appeal is the first chance to make an impression on a buyer and can be the deciding factor when determining which home a buyer chooses. If you can’t get them to look past the exterior, chances are, they are less likely to choose your home over another one with more aesthetic appeal."Taylor Pair, REALTOR® and Top Producer with Three Sixty {real estate} East Alabama
As you contemplate outdoor upgrades, keep in mind this list of top curb appeal projects that can earn you money back down the line when you go to sell.
Popular Curb Appeal Projects to Consider
When it comes to selling your home, simple upgrades to the exterior of your property can boost interest and get eyes on your listing.
"Fresh and clean landscaping is essential. A well-maintained yard with seasonal flowers, even if they’re just in pots near the entry, can create a stunning first impression. Artificial turf is another fantastic option; it’s becoming increasingly popular around pools and backyard spaces. It provides a lush, low-maintenance look that is beautiful year-round."Evan Taylor, REALTOR® & Designer with Three Sixty Resort Living at Lake Martin
Of course, some more intensive projects can also lead to high returns down the line as well as major perks for you while you’re still living at your home and enjoying the space.
No matter what updates you’re looking to tackle, there’s a new tool at your disposal. Artificial intelligence is helping homeowners visualize the potential of what the front and back can look like. Look for online tools to help your design process or ask your real estate agent about how AI can help you design your space.
Timeless Curb Appeal Upgrades to Tackle This Year
Curb appeal might seemingly refer to aesthetic elements of a home, but it has a larger influence on a buyer’s subconscious. Below are some timeless upgrades that tend to increase interest in a home no matter the current trends.
1. Landscaping
When it comes to curb appeal, landscaping is king. The best ways to maximize curb appeal include a freshly landscaped lawn, boasting neatly trimmed plants and brush, and focusing on the color of the house itself. Landscaping should incorporate native plants for your region, incorporating any views on your lot as wow factors. Of course, you don’t have to go out and get new mulch and plants to make improvements to your current landscaping. Sometimes a simple cleanup works wonders.
2. Fresh Paint
Painting the front door, fence, and other exterior features is often the easiest way to give your home a facelift. Check the front door—it may need a fresh coat of paint or even a different color to make it stand out. Planted window boxes make the house look fresh and welcoming, especially in the front courtyard of any house. Looking to refresh the inside of your home with paint? Stick with neutral colors. You might like bold colors, but most buyers prefer more subtle white or gray tones.
3. Staging
Curb appeal can also be improved with proper staging of outdoor spaces. Furniture, landscape lighting, and planted pots on the front entry way or back porch make your property much more inviting and memorable to potential buyers before they even open the front door.
"Outdoor lighting can significantly elevate a home’s exterior aesthetics, making it more inviting and highlighting key features. Additionally, proper pressure washing, addressing deferred maintenance, and applying a fresh coat of paint can make a home stand out and increase its appeal to potential buyers."Evan Taylor, REALTOR® and Designer with Three Sixty Resort Living at Lake Martin
Return on Your Investment
As you contemplate upgrades to your home for resale, be sure to budget for curb appeal specifically. 20-25% of your overall budget for improvements in preparing a property for the market is a good ballpark. That budget is likely to come back to you when you sell your home.
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) estimate that applying mulch annually, mowing about 2,800 square feet of lawn, pruning shrubs, and planting about 60 annuals or perennials costs about $3,000—but has a 100% return on investment (ROI) upon selling. NAR also found that upgrades such as an outdoor kitchen, new patio, and overall landscape upgrade have 95% or more return on investment.
Of course, you won’t likely add a new kitchen or patio to your home as you prepare to sell, but it might be helpful to know that those projects you take on will not only be enjoyable for you but a big perk for future buyers and your wallet. Done correctly, curb appeal can be the difference between getting a deal, and can reflect positively on the value of your home.
Information from Alabama Association of REALTORS® and the Three Sixty team.
