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It's a known fact: Good-looking, well-maintained homes sell faster (and command a higher price) than houses that appear worn down and tired. In today's attractive roller coaster real-estate market enhancing curb appeal -- the first impression of a house as seen from the street -- can mean the difference between attracting serious buyers and resulting in a sale, or having the property languish for months as unsold. "Adding curb appeal is a quick and easy way to liven up the home's exterior and improve the value of the home," says Leslie Segrete, home improvement expert and television personality of The Learning Channel's (TLC) Trading Spaces and While You Were Out. Segrete
offers the following tips for under $500:
Tip # 1: Refresh Exterior Wood One of the
most significant curb-appeal improvements homeowners can make
is to refresh all exterior wood surfaces. Check wood siding,
trim, doors, mailboxes, decks and fences for fading, dirt and
peeling paint. If the wood is unfinished, use a wood cleaner;
if it's finished, use a wood stripping solution. Next, add a
fresh coat of stain so these wood surfaces look clean and new
again. Consider adding color to outdoor wood furniture with an
exterior wood stain; it's an inexpensive way to "decorate"
outdoors. The Flood Company's CWF-UV5 Designer Colors Premium
Wood Finish is available in eight sheer tones, including
colors like Spring Moss and Grapevine Grey. This premium
exterior wood finish is also ideal for wood decks, siding and
fences because it's guaranteed to protect against water
damage, peeling, blistering and graying of the surface due to
ultraviolet exposure. The Flood Company also offers a line of
wood cleaning and prep products.
Tip # 2: Prune Foliage and Shrubs, Add Mulch
Trim shrubs and trees, and manicure the lawn. Consider
energizing the landscape by planting fresh flowers -- simply
adding $100 in brightly colored annuals will instantly improve
the total appearance of the yard. Take time to prune dead
branches, trim back overgrown shrubbery and spread mulch or
bark around trees, shrubs and flowers for a weed-free,
well-kept look. Also, small shrubs are great for concealing
unattractive aspects of a home's exterior, including
unappealing air-conditioning units.
Tip # 3: Freshen Up Windows, Shutters and
Gutters Clean windows that flank the front door and repair
broken windows and torn screens. Repair and clean shutters to
complement the revitalized front entrance, and remember to
clean surrounding gutters as they can instantly ruin a first
impression.
Tip #4: Lighten Up To add warmth and add
interest, consider installing exterior lighting fixtures to
shed some light on a favorite tree, or illuminate the walkway.
Remember to clean existing light fixtures and replace
burnt-out bulbs.
Tip #5: Accessorize A small number of
accessories adds charm, especially at the home's entryway.
Consider adding a few understated ornaments like burgeoning
flowerpots, a colorful welcome mat, a name plate or a small
rocking chair to make the space look "homey" and welcome.
These small additions will attract homebuyers who can envision
themselves in the lovely space.
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