This may seem obvious, but for people to consider buying your home, you have to actually get them to come inside. Getting people to get out of their cars and come through the door takes great curb appeal. The concept of curb appeal actually refers to everything outside that might affect the overall attractiveness of your home. Landscaping, fresh paint, sparkling windows, and swept sidewalks all contribute to curb appeal. Today’s buyers have a lot of options to consider and they will make their first cut by driving by your home, or perhaps even looking at a photo online. The first impression your home makes on people needs to be one that puts your home on their short list of prospects.

Landscaping should be your first priority. Your grass should be well manicured and your shrubbery and other plants should be trimmed and healthy. Does your front yard look empty? Consider adding a tree and a few more ornamental plants. Stick with varieties that grow well in your climate area. While your landscaping should look beautiful, it also should look low-maintenance. Most people today don’t have a lot of time for working in the yard. If you aren’t sure what your landscape needs, then hire a designer or talk with the pros at your local garden supply store.

If your home has a front patio, make it look like a place where people can relax. If there is patio furniture there, make sure it’s clean and new looking. Porch swings are highly sought after, but not if the chains are rusty and the paint is peeling. Also, your patio furniture should fit with the design of your home.

Finally, don’t forget the front door. Repair and repaint if necessary. Add a new welcome mat. Everything that makes up the curb appeal of your home should be saying “Come inside for a closer look!”