As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it's the perfect time to put your home on the market. But before you list it, giving your home's exterior a little TLC is crucial.
First impressions are everything; a well-maintained exterior can make all the difference in attracting potential buyers. Keep reading for a short list of the top areas to focus on.
Curb Appeal: The Key to a Successful Sale
Curb appeal is the first thing potential buyers notice when they drive up to your home. It sets the tone for the entire viewing experience. To make a great first impression, start by thoroughly cleaning your home's exterior. Power wash the siding, windows, and walkways to remove any dirt, grime, or mildew that may have accumulated over the winter.
Landscaping: A Well-Groomed Yard Speaks Volumes
A well-manicured lawn and lush landscaping can significantly boost your home's curb appeal. Make sure to mow, edge, and water your lawn regularly. Trim any overgrown shrubs or trees, and consider adding some colorful flowers or potted plants to add a touch of life to your yard.
Driveways and Walkways: A Smooth Transition
Whether you have a paved driveway or a dirt road, it's essential to keep it in good condition. Fill any cracks or potholes, and consider sealing the surface to give it a fresh, clean look. If you have sidewalks or walkways, make sure they are free of debris and in good repair.
Septic Systems and Wells: Ensuring a Smooth Transition
If your home relies on a septic system or well water, it's crucial to make certain they are in good working order. Have your septic system inspected and pumped if necessary, and test your well water to ensure it meets safety standards.
Potential buyers will appreciate the peace of mind of knowing that these essential systems are functioning properly. Not only that, many communities (and counties) will require an inspection is completed before you can complete the sale of a home.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) issued a dual notice of intent in November of 2019, signaling their intention to implement alterations to the MN Rules regarding subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS), known as septic systems. Consequently, it has become mandatory in Minnesota for septic tanks to undergo pumping to ensure they are emptied as part of the compliance inspection process before a property sale.
Outdoor Living Spaces: Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
Summer is the perfect time to showcase your outdoor living spaces. Clean and arrange any patio furniture, and consider adding some string lights or lanterns to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. If you have a deck or porch, ensure it is in good repair and free of any loose boards or nails.
Focusing on these key areas can help ensure that your home's exterior is ready to impress potential buyers this summer. Remember, a little effort can go a long way in creating a positive first impression and ultimately, a successful sale.
So, let's talk about some common exterior updates and repairs that can increase the value of a home!
According to Better Homes and Gardens and FamilyHandyman.com, these are some common exterior updates and repairs that can help increase the value of a home and property.
Landscaping
Landscaping can increase a home's value by 5.5 to 12.7 percent. Maintain a well-manicured lawn, trim hedges, and add colorful flowers or potted plants to boost curb appeal.
Roof Replacement
Replacing a roof is one of the top exterior renovations that add value. Homeowners can recover 107 percent of the cost at resale.
Garage Door Replacement
Replacing a garage door improves curb appeal and generates a high return on investment, with homeowners recouping up to 95 percent of the cost.
Siding Replacement
Fiber-cement siding can recover up to 76 percent of the upfront cost at resale, while a vinyl siding upgrade can increase a home's value by 63 percent of the project's cost.
Window Replacement
Replacing worn-out windows with vinyl ones can help homeowners recover up to 71 percent of the remodeling cost when they sell. Even wood windows can add value, with homeowners potentially recovering 57 percent of what they spent.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Adding an attached outdoor living space, such as a deck or porch, can boost a home's value by almost $20,000. Consider the climate and create zones for various activities to maximize the space.
Front Door Replacement
Replacing an existing door with a steel door averages a 75 percent return on investment. Fiberglass doors can also help recoup up to 74 percent of the estimated project cost.
By focusing on these key exterior updates and repairs, homeowners can significantly increase their home's value and appeal to potential buyers. With that said, there are items you may feel compelled to fix up or update before you sell, but be aware that not every update is equal and short of bringing you personal enjoyment; they will most likely not bring you much in the way of resale value. Additionally, ignoring elements or steps within a renovation process could cost you. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when updating a home's exterior:
Not Considering the Age of Your House
The age of your home is important because it can impact the materials and methods used, any past damage, and building code violations that need to be addressed.
- You may have an outdated HVAC system that needs to be addressed and may need to be brought up to code. How would this alter the look of the home with additional piping and venting?
- What about the electrical system? A dated electrical panel and service to the home may require updates. Codes aside, not having the right electrical panel and service in the home could cause electrical failures and prevent the proper functioning of the new appliances being installed.
- What about finishes? Older homes often used plaster walls and loads of custom wood trim inside, or shakes, shutters, custom window trim, or roofing materials that are not always easy to replicate or repair in today's do-it-yourself environment. Overlooking these elements, going too trendy, and replacing those materials can not only kill the aesthetic vibe of the property but can also drop its perceived value.
Not Having a Plan and Budget
It's imperative to have a clear plan and budget for exterior renovations. Nothing blows a budget faster than "scope creep." Preplanning your goals, material needs, timelines, and budget empowers you to complete the project with fewer financial surprises and ensures you make the most of your budget.
Not Consulting an Expert
Calling in an exterior home expert is the best first step for any exterior renovation project. They can assess your home's condition, recommend the best updates, and help you prioritize your budget. They can also consult you on the products that offer the best longevity for those unpredictable hot summer days and blistering winter nights in Minnesota. And they can help you effectively blend the old with new - especially if you're remodeling an older, turn-of-the-century home.
Neglecting the Importance of Cohesion
Choose materials and colors that complement each other to create a cohesive design. Avoid disparate elements that clash with your home's architecture or the flow of the design. A disconnected design flow can be triggering for some people, causing distraction and confusion and even causing some stress or anxiety. You want visitors to feel like they could walk right in and settle down. You don't want them to feel like, "Oh my! We're going to have a lot of changes to make here when we move in. Pass!"
Ignoring Architectural Style
Respect your home's architectural style by choosing exterior elements that align with it. This ensures a unified and balanced look. Have you ever driven through a neighborhood and come across a home that made you stop and gasp and think to yourself, "What in the world were they thinking?" You don't want to be that home.
Failing to Plan for Future Maintenance
Prioritize low-maintenance materials that can withstand the elements. This reduces the need for frequent upkeep and keeps your exterior looking beautiful for years. Savvy homebuyers (and their agents) can spot shoddy materials and immediately start calculating what it will cost them to update or fix down the road. Things like this can make prospective homebuyers pause, walkway, or lowball any offering.
Skipping the Preparation Phase
Neglecting the important preparation process—tackling tasks like cleaning, sanding, and priming— can lead to poor paint adhesion, uneven coverage, and a shorter lifespan for any paint or stain job. It could also leave uneven surfaces and gaps that look poor in quality and leave a bad first impression in the minds of prospective home buyers.
