How to Lift Your Street Appeal on a Budget
When people think renos, they usually think bathrooms and kitchens. And for good reason. These areas of the home usually give an excellent return on investment! But one of the equally important yet less appreciated places in the home is the landscaping and street appeal.
Of course, we all know that first impressions count. Buyers decide within seconds whether a property feels “right” or it’s just another viewing to check off the list. But this assessment doesn’t start inside the front door; even while pulling up to the house, people are starting to form their opinion.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to make the outside of your home shine. Here are six budget-friendly ways to boost your home’s street appeal before you book in the photographer.
1. Freshen Up the Front Door
A coat of paint on your front door can completely change the look of your home. Bold colours like navy, charcoal, or even a deep red can create a welcoming focal point. However, please be very careful if you choose a strong statement colour & seek some outside advice. For example, three different greens may seem quite similar, but the difference in what each colour communicates can be as different to the others, as ‘kitsch’ ‘elegant’ or ‘dated.’
Polish or replace old hardware and oil squeaky handles and hinges for a strong first impression. Never leave security doors with dog-squished or hole-damaged mesh! It makes no sense to avoid paying a few hundred dollars that will cost you thousands of dollars in a damaged first impression, and lower offers.
2. Clean and Declutter
Pressure-washing the driveway, pathways, and exterior walls removes years of built-up dirt. Be careful and test in an in inconspicuous area when dealing with wall render that may become loose. Clear away clutter like garden tools, bins, or old furniture so buyers see a tidy, well-maintained property.
3. Green up the Garden
Plants make all the difference! Trim overgrown hedges, mow the lawn, and add a few low-cost potted plants near the entryway. Some inexpensive natives from Bunnings could add colour and life to an otherwise plain entrance.
4. Upgrade Lighting
Good lighting not only makes your home safer but also highlights features after dusk. Affordable solar lights along a pathway or a modern porch light can create a warm, inviting feel.
5. Small Details, Big Impact
New house numbers, a letterbox upgrade, or a clean welcome mat are small touches that buyers notice. These changes cost little but instantly refresh the look of your property.
6. Paint to Perfection
If necessary, a full exterior repaint may be required to take your home from drab to fab. While you’re at it, are you going to modernise the colours? Or just freshen up what’s already there? Neither choice is more correct – it will depend entirely on your unique property, the year it was built, and what other renovations you are undertaking.
Conclusion
By investing just a little time and money, you can dramatically increase your home’s street appeal. Remember: a buyer’s excitement starts the moment they arrive. Make that moment count, and you’ll be one step closer to achieving a top selling result.
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