Do you know what your real estate competition is here in the Indianapolis Real Estate market? Did you know that at the end of April 2011 there were over 17,000 properties for sale in the Indianapolis market? How does your property measure up? Why would someone want to view your home compared to the one next door? What have you done to entice people to actually get out of their car and come in for a closer look?
If you'd like to have specific Market Research on your specific area of town then check out our "How's The Market" research site. Know your competition.
Whether you have a Carmel home for sale, a Broadripple Home For Sale, or an Indianapolis home for sale, or wherever, here are a a few quick tips on how to add curb appeal and entice those buyers to get out of their car!
Many individuals interested in selling their homes are already aware that curb appeal is crucial. Making a good impression on potential buyers before they even step inside will assure that your property is memorable, but more importantly, making a bad impression will hinder your chances of selling your home—regardless of how charming it is inside. The following tips will allow you to amp up your curb appeal without breaking the bank.
“Many homeowners who are trying to sell think that increasing their curb appeal has to be a pricey affair involving landscapers or a new front porch,” says Patty Bender, Vice President of Operations at CENTURY 21, Scheetz . “But there are a great deal of small, inexpensive things you can do for the outside of your home that will make the overall appearance much more appealing.” Bender suggests these simple do-it-yourself projects, all of which will take less than one afternoon, and cost you 100 dollars—or less!
Flower Boxes. “Putting flower boxes under your windows will give your home a pop of color and increase the overall charm factor of your property,” says Bender. All it takes is the boxes themselves—which are usually under $35—some soil, and plants. Not interested in flower boxes? A few potted plants lining your porch, steps or walkway will do the trick as well.
Repaint Your Accents. Repainting the accents of your home—including the front door, trim and shutters—will give your house a fresh, clean look. “Choosing a bold color will make your house stick out, but even playing it safe with a neutral tone will make your property appear clean and well cared for,” says Patty.
Replace Your Numbers. “Many houses have old, faded or rusted numbers. Buying new, modern numbers—or even customized numeral plaques—can really help the look of the front of your house,” says Bender. “This is a small detail that is often overlooked but can have a really nice effect.”
Plant a Garden. Planting a small flower garden in the front of your house will give your home a warm, inviting look. “Foliage adds instant curb appeal,” states Bender. “If you don’t want to tend to flowers, consider planting a tree.”
Detailing. Adding interesting details, such as a bird feeder or birdbath, will improve the appeal of your front yard. “Inexpensive stepping stones trailed throughout a garden or up to the front door are also attractive touches,” suggests Patty.
Mailbox Makeover. “Getting an upgraded or customized mailbox adds great detailing to the front of your house,” says Bender. “Whether you opt for a mounted box on the side of your home or a curbside container, having a mailbox that stands out is a nice touch.”
“There are many different low-budget options for bolstering your curb appeal,” says Bender. “Doing so will immediately make your home more inviting, assure a great first impression and enable a faster selling time.”
For more resources please visit our Real Estate Resource Center.
