Wednesday 12 May 2010

7 Quick Tips to Tidy Up a Property to Improve the Street Appeal For Potential Buyers

Home buyers often spend a lot of time driving from street to street looking for properties advertised for sale. It is also a good way for them to assess the neighborhoods first hand. The problem is; sometimes these potential home buyers will often slow down at a property with a real estate agent sign in front, do a quick visual assessment, and then drive on. They don't bother phoning the agent to arrange an inspection so never get past through the front door to see what else the property has to offer. They never get to see the spacious living area, the newly refurbished designer kitchen, or the wonderful outdoor dining area in the backyard. All because, they made a quick judgement to eliminate the property from their search, based on what they saw from the street.

There is a lesson in all this for any home owner who is trying to sell. First impressions do matter, street appeal is important. If the property fails to attract potential buyers past the front gate, it doesn't really matter how flash it is inside. They may never get to see it.

Needless to say, a property that is visually appealing from the street, and appears in good condition will attract potential buyers.

Here are 7 quick tips to tidy up a property and improve its street appeal:

1. Mow the lawns and trim lawn edges.

2. Trim hedges, prune the shrubs and cut back any trees that overhanging paths or driveways.

3. Weed the gardens and remove dead leaves or rubbish. Spreading some bark, pea straw, or decorative stones can sometimes help with the look.

4. Maybe plant some small flowering plants for instant color.

5. Remove junk, trash, kids toys, and hose reels from the front yard.

6. Repair broken fences and replace damaged palings. Consider a repaint.

7. Repair or replace a damaged mailbox. A coat of paint, or new house number, may be all that's required.

None of the above improvements are very costly, or overly time-consuming, so there is no reason not to consider putting them into action. They could make a big difference when selling your home. It will make the real estate agents job a whole lot easier... not that most vendors want to do that.

Seriously though; making the real estate agents job easier is to the vendors advantage. The agent and the vendor should be working together as a team, not fighting each other. The agent is simply trying to get a sale and hopefully maximize the price achieved. So, any help the vendor can provide will work towards meeting the ultimate goal of selling the property in the shortest time for a good price.

Noel recommends a website with helpful information on selecting good Kapiti estate agents who market Paraparaumu real estate. This site offers home owners a free report.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Noel_Peebles