Preparing the Exterior

The first step in preparing the exterior of your house for sale is evaluating what work needs to be done. The goal is to impress prospective buyers, and increase the value of your home. You need to honestly evaluate your house. Stand out in front and just look at it. What do you see? What stands out? Do you notice positive attributes, like freshly painted doors or new siding? Or do you see old paint, a cracked driveway and a leaky roof? Remember, this view will be a buyer's first impression. If it's not a good impression, they'll most likely lose interest immediately.

Do all major repairs and renovations before you put the home on the market. Do not leave it up to the buyer to "imagine" how nice the house will be. If you're trying to sell a "fixer-upper," beware. Many buyers say they want one, but few actually do. Most of them get scared off when they visit the homes, and end up buying a "fixed-up" instead.

Here's a quick list of things to do to fix up your home's exterior. This isn't a complete list, so if some other problem jumps out at you, give it your attention. But these take care of many common aesthetic issues. The most important thing is that your house looks like somewhere you'd want to live.

Exterior Preparation

• Remove all clutter! (This goes for inside the house as well as out). Clutter stops the buyer from seeing the beauty of a home. So clear out all tree branches and leaves, and especially any junk cars, lawn mowers, tracktors etc.
• Powerwash the exterior if it's dirty or moldy. If it needs paint, pay a professional or do it yourself. If you have to hire a professional, make sure to compare bids and shop for a good deal.
• Clear out gutters and drainspouts, make sure they're in good condition.
• If your driveway's gravel, consider adding another layer. If it's asphalt, consider resealing.
• Powerwash and seal, stain or paint wooden decks and porches.
• Reseed any bare areas of your lawn. Make sure it's mowed and looking nice.
• If possible, add a touch of color by planting seasonal flowers.
• Trim all yard plants. Try to cut off any dead tree limbs you can reach.
• Add mulch to planting beds and around trees. It's inexpensive, but looks amazing.
• Make sure all exterior lights function properly.
• Make sure the exterior (and the interior) of windows are clean.

  Appraisal - Preparation - Taking Pictures - Showing Your Home - Open House