Tips to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal for Resale

Want to sell your home fast and get top dollar? Then now’s the time to get moving.

May is the best month to sell quick and maximize return, according to research by Zillow. Spring brings warmer weather, tax refunds and the start to summer break for kids and research shows this mix makes it the best time of year to sell.

Good timing goes hand in hand with creating good curb appeal, which renovation expert Bob Villa estimates can add up to 20% value to your home. Want to create a memorable first impression with buyers who drive by or house hunt online? Follow these easy tips before placing that “for sale” sign in your yard.

Look beyond the windows

Wash windows and power wash siding, too, if it has accumulated dirt and grime. Remove small debris from the roof. Repair cracked or uneven pavement and missing walkway stones. Trim shrubs, weed and liven up landscaping. Then mow and edge for a manicured lawn that buyers will love.

Spruce up the front door

Build layers of interest that draw attention to your home’s main point of entry. Re-stain or paint your door and trim. Pick black and you may increase your home’s sales price by nearly 3%. Accessorize with a few contrasting potted plants (remember—less is more) and a climate-proof wall light like the Riverpath LED Wall Light. It’s a good pick for both ambiance and safety. Plus, this transitional style LED light is energy efficient and dimmable.

Evaluate the garage door. And more.

Because of their size, poorly maintained driveways and garage doors count big in curb appeal. If your driveway is marred by spots or stains, power wash them away. Update garage doors with paint or stain, plus a decorative light like the the Northland outdoor wall lantern. It adds a touch of vintage factory style while filling the area with light. Remember to check the condition of your fence, gutters and mailbox. Also make sure your house numbers are clearly visible from the street.

Light the night.

Buyers often cruise neighborhoods at night to see how well lit homes are and if they’d feel safe living there. To help alleviate security concerns (and deliver some serious nighttime wow), install outdoor lighting that illuminates home and yard in a variety of ways. Outdoor pendants give porches or entries a warm glow. Outdoor post lights add drama to driveways and pathlights make walkways easy to navigate in the dark.

The popularity of HGTV has helped make today’s buyers increasingly savvy.

To sell for top dollar, a home must put it's best foot forward—both inside and out. That’s why creating great curb appeal is important and worth doing well.