If you’re trying to sell your home during this pandemic—and the facade is a little worse for wear—don’t panic! We consulted with Clint Robertson and Luke Caldwell of HGTV’s “Boise Boys” to steal some tricks for curb appeal that’s so irresistible, buyers will be clamoring to know what’s inside.
1. Keep the yard green and pristine
“One of the cheapest things you can do to enhance curb appeal is to keep your yard mowed and groomed,” says Robertson, who also partners with Caldwell at “Hire someone to mow it and keep it tidy, or take the time to keep it pristine.
You don’t have to have a green thumb to get a lush lawn when you know these lawn care secrets.
2. Mind your driveway and walkway
A driveway and front walk with minor cracks and weeds popping up through the expansion joints (the straight lines that divide the driveway and walkway) are an eyesore.
Luckily, it’s an easy fix.
Remove the weeds, and patch the concrete with caulk, Robertson suggests. Hose it down or power-wash it. For extra pizazz, finish a concrete driveway or walkway with a clear, glossy sealer. (You can give faded asphalt driveways a face-lift with asphalt sealer.)
At the very least, hose down the driveway and walkway before photos, or a video or in-person tour, to give it a fresh look.
3. Flaunt your nighttime appeal
A driveway and front walk with minor cracks and weeds popping up through the expansion joints (the straight lines that divide the driveway and walkway) are an eyesore.
Luckily, it’s an easy fix.
Remove the weeds, and patch the concrete with caulk, Robertson suggests. Hose it down or power-wash it. For extra pizazz, finish a concrete driveway or walkway with a clear, glossy sealer. (You can .)
At the very least, hose down the driveway and walkway before photos, or a video or in-person tour, to give it a fresh look.
4. Don’t forget the garage
Caldwell suggests painting the garage door the same color as the trim on the house. Garage doors with a row of windows are pleasing to the eye, too. “Sometimes garages feel dark and scary,” says Robertson. “The light allows it to make it feel like it’s more part of the home.”
DIY garage window kits are available for most newer garage door models and allow you to remove a row of existing panels and add glass inserts.If you’re adding windows where people can see in, don’t forget to stage inside the garage, too.
5. Replace outdoor accents and give your landscaping some love
Then make sure your landscaping looks lush for any passersby. Prune overgrown shrubs and trees. Weed flower beds, and spread a layer of fresh mulch.
“It’s like getting a new haircut for your house,” Caldwell says.
Add pretty-looking annuals if your yard is lacking color. Plant a Japanese maple to fill a bare spot and create symmetry.
“It’s low to the ground and doesn’t require much light,” notes Caldwell.
Then wrap up by cleaning the windows and sweeping the cobwebs from the front porch. Tidy up and so buyers can imagine themselves relaxing there on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
6. Give your front door a face-lift
“If you’re going to spend money on one thing to add curb appeal, make it a,” says Caldwell.
Front doors with glass inserts evoke a warm and welcoming feeling. If there isn’t room in the budget, rejuvenate your existing door with a fresh coat of paint and hardware.
“A fresh pop of color in red, yellow, or blue can bring life to your house immediately and catches people’s eyes as well,” Caldwell says. “It feels like thoughtful consideration has been put into the home, and ultimately that’s what we’re trying to do—to let the home feel like a home that’s been loved and cared for and thought about. A home that’s been cared for stands out.
Original blog, Realtor.com By Lisa Marie Conklin | May 11, 2020
