Did you know that making even small improvements to the exterior of your home, including landscaping, can increase your home’s market value up to 15%?  If you are thinking about putting your home on the market, updating the outside of your home can significantly increase the curb appeal and ultimately the sale value of your home. The first thing potential buyers see is the front of the house, so making a good first impression is key.

Making updates like a fresh coat of paint, updating the old mailbox, fixing up the garden, keeping the lawn clean and cut – all of these things can make a difference to potential buyers.

Painting the Exterior

Refresh your house with a new coat of paint.  Having trouble deciding on a color scheme for the exterior? Choosing a color for the house and accent colors for the doors, window frames, and eaves can be challenging!  Peruse online color palettes or employ a designer for expert advice.  Bringing in someone who specializes in color consultation can be worth the investment.  They will take into account your home’s style, the surrounding area, the neighborhood - a beautiful exterior paint job can be welcoming and entice potential buyers.

Update the Mailbox

Is your mailbox outdated?  If the mailbox hasn’t been replaced since the 1980’s, I guarantee it is!  Replacing your home’s mailbox is a quick and easy way to increase the curb appeal of your home.  Whether your mailbox makeover reflects a contemporary or artistic style, it can help create that first impression when people enter your home.  

Fixing Up the Garden

Start making improvements to your landscaping at least a month before your house goes on the market.  Make sure you’ve irrigated your lawn and plants so that they are green and thriving - something Seattle home sellers need to think about in the summer months!  Pull out overgrown weeds, add mulch, prune shrubs and trees. Consider adding a variety of flowering and evergreen plants and shrubs. Power wash patios and decks to keep them free of algae and moss and make sure your exterior lights are in good working order.  Keep your lawn mowed and neat, since house hunters can arrange a home viewing at a moment’s notice.  

Add and Update Small Details

So often, the things that pull on the heartstrings of potential buyers are in the details.  Update your old doorbell, replace the porch light, add a welcome mat, and a potted plant by the door - these things can make a home feel warm and inviting.

When it comes to curb appeal, it’s all about drawing people in and helping them imagine themselves living in your home. You will want to make them feel invited and excited about seeing the inside of the house. Updating even the smallest of details can make the world of difference. Good luck on your outdoor updates!