Toronto Real Estate Info

We've all heard that saying, "never judge a book by its cover," and for the most part, it's sage advice.

But when you decide to put your home on the market, "a picture is worth a thousand words" is a more apt description of how you should be handling your home sale. With more and more buyers using the Internet to search for homes, sometimes the first impression will mean the difference between a foot in the door or an unsold home.

Because the front of your home is the first thing the buyer will see when driving by, coming to a showing, or attending an open house, the initial impression will set the pace for the rest of their visit. The National Association of Realtors says that a home's curb appeal sells 49% of all homes, and these homes often have speedy sales.

With just a few touches, you can improve your curb appeal and impress buyers with how much your home looks cared for.

Step 1: Have A Plan
The key to any home renovation is to step back and look at the property objectively. Once your home is put on the market, it becomes a commodity that you want to sell quickly and for top market value. One of the best ways to figure out what you can enhance or improve your curb appeal is to take pictures of the front of your home and look for things that may need fixing or updating. Alternatively, asking a friend or your real estate agent can give you some unbiased advice.

There are several things you should ask yourself:

What is my first impression of my home?

What is the best exterior feature, and how can I enhance it?

What is the worst exterior feature, and how can I minimize it or improve it?

Is the path clean and tidy?

Does anything look old or worn? How can I update it?

Step 2: Tidy Up
There are several things you can do that will automatically spruce up the front of your home:

Remove mould and mildew on the house, sidewalks, roof or driveway.
Put away garden implements and tools.
Clean all windows and gutters. Hosing down the windows before wiping them will loosen caked on dirt and other natural debris.
Give your sidewalk and driveway a quick sweep. If you have time, remove waste from your adjoining neighbours' curb as well.
Remove weeds and grass growing between sidewalk or walkway cracks.
In the spring and summer months, mow and water the lawn regularly. Get rid of weeds if necessary, and trim hedges.
Rake and throw away leaves.
Trim tree limbs that may be inhibiting the view to your home.
Store garbage neatly, and preferably away from the front of your home.
Make your front porch or steps look inviting with a welcome mat or some potted flowers.
If your backyard is visible from the front, buyers will most likely take a little peek. Make sure that the back is neat and tidy as well.

Step 3: Work With Lighting
Many buyers, more and more, find themselves taking control over their home buying process. They will often drive by a house to see its exterior, size, and neighbourhood before setting up an appointment to view its interior. All the hard work you've put into improving your curb appeal should not be wasted: that's why lighting is important, especially in the evenings when buyers might be driving by your home.

Using low wattage lighting along the driveway, landscaping elements, or wrapped around trees can create a warm and inviting feel. Alternatively, a street lamp or light fixture by the front porch will work wonders for a homely look. Your lights should be visible through the front windows, but don't overdo it - prospective buyers came to see your home, not a light show.

Step 4: The Extras
If you have some extra money, consider investing it into the appearance of your home. It will all be well worth it when your home sells.

Here are some extras to consider:

If trees or plants have become overgrown, it's best to remove them so that buyers can get a good sense as to what your home looks like. Remember, being a minimalist is key - that way, buyers will be able to picture how they might want their new home to look like without clutter obstructing their imagination.
If your exterior looks dull, it may be time to apply a fresh coat of paint. For a quicker and cheaper fix, think about touching up the trim on windows and doors, or painting shutters a flattering colour to draw attention towards them.
The door is usually the focal point of your exterior, and where the buyers' eyes will inevitably fall. Give your door a quick coat of paint or stain it, fix broken or loose hinges, and shine hardware. For a polished look, add a brass knocker. A seasonal wreath or door ornament also adds a nice, welcoming touch.
Consider pressure washing decks or siding, and bleaching steps white.
If you don't have a yard, use flower boxes in window ledges to add colour to your home. You could also place two large planters on either side of the door or walkway. Evergreens work best for the cooler months.
Use fresh mulch or bedding material around plants in the yard, and use a hoe to make the edges of the bedding sharp.
Paint gutters to match trim.
If your yard is not as green or healthy as it could be, consider replacing your grass.
Peruse landscaping books or websites for more ideas on how to landscape your front yard - but remember, the simpler the touches, the better.

Improving your curb appeal is a great way to add charm to your property, and get it sold quickly and for top dollar. Your home will look well cared for, and buyers will appreciate that.

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Copyright 2003. Michael A. Reis, Coldwell Banker Platinum Realty Services, Canada. All Coldwell Banker offices are independently owned and operated. Powered by Look Communications Inc. and compiled by The Corporate Ninja.