Preparing Your Home for Sale ? The First Impression

Posted by Nick Niesen on November 8th, 2010

By John Tatman, Retired Real Estate Appraiser
 
Let us try to see your home through the buyer?s eyes. You have lived there for years and you see your home everyday. Is it appealing from the street? Would YOU buy it? Be honest.
 
In addition to all the common sense preparations such as picking up the toys and cleaning the yard?let?s spend a little money and really make your home inviting.
 
 
The lawn: Common sense tells you to keep your lawn mowed and edged, but does it look like a green desert?with no pizzazz? Let?s go shopping and add some. Visit your local nursery and bring your checkbook. We are after greenery, concrete and other things.

Consider your entryway? Assuming your lawn is not already landscaped; consider putting 2 to 4 ? 18 inch to 24 inch pot plants along the entryway. This will give a welcoming atmosphere. Also, consider an attractive concrete birdbath ?close to the front entry?.
 
The driveway:  Plant 2 ? 18 inch to 24 inch shrubs on the entry to your driveway. The Mail Box: Whether it is located near the entrance or on the curb, if it is not new?replace it. The preferable color is black with gold trim.
The Entryway/Porch: In addition to removing the cobwebs, consider new paint, preferably a light and inviting color.

The Front Door: Common sense says paint it?but l?ll go a bit further, replace it. This is the most important decision you will make. A bland looking front door gives the impression that the interior will also be bland
and set the tone for the home tour. It is human nature.
 
I suggest a top half, leaded glass door beautifully stained and varnished.
You will be surprised at the difference this will make in the mental tone this will set, even in yourself.
 
Some of these suggestions may seem a little extreme, but with years of  experience in the Real Estate industry, I have seen these tips work with much success. When you can look at your home and objectively say?Yes, I would buy it! You are ready to place your For Sale sign in your yard.
 
John Tatman is a retired Certified Real Estate Appraiser
Texas Showcase Homes