By David Domenichini
How your house looks from the street can add thousands to its value, command a higher asking price, and take less time to sell. If you’re looking to put your house on the market, there are a few things we recommend considering when it comes to improving your home's curb appeal.
Fix or Replace the Roof
Sometimes all it takes to make a roof look “like new” is a good cleaning. Removing dirt, moss, algae, etc., can make a huge difference. The roof can be one of the first things an appraiser assesses, so any missing, curled, or faded shingles will only lessen the value of your home. Don’t forget about the downspouts and gutters as well. Also, be sure to take a look at your neighbor’s roofs. If they have been well maintained or recently replaced, it may only make yours look worse off than it really is.
Freshen Up The Paint
Buyers and appraisers instantly notice the value of a new exterior paint job. While it may seem expensive and time-consuming, it pays off and can give your home that much-needed facelift.
Add Exterior Accents
In addition to new paint, it’s also good to consider adding rock or stone accents to the exterior of your home. These could be added to the entire front house, or sometimes just around the garage is all you need. Even minor accents can add just the right amount of character to draw the attention of a home buyer, such as new house numbers or a new mailbox.
Spruce Up The Entryway
Improving the doorways to a home is another way to create a welcoming feel. Consider painting the front door a bold color and adding framing to really make it pop. Tile is a nice way to spruce up the front steps, and a new stone walkway can also be a great addition.
The garage door also makes a significant difference to a home's curb appeal, especially for homes with a two- or three-car garage facing the street. There are a number of different styles to choose from, and installation can sometimes take less than a day to complete.
Talk to a Local Contractor or Designer About Your Home's Curb Appeal
First impressions are important, and when it comes to home buyers, that first look at the outside could make or break their decision to go inside. Depending on the condition of your home, the cost to add some curb appeal might not be as bad as you think. Talk to your local contractor and/or designer to discuss the best options for you.
David Domenichini is the owner and proprietor of D.R. Domenichini Construction, an award-winning kitchen and bath remodeler in Morgan Hill serving all of Santa Clara County. He brings nearly 30 years of experience to his family-owned and operated business. David resides in the Morgan Hill area with his wife, Gina, who owns Studio 38 Designs, an award-winning kitchen and bath interior design studio.