Looking for curb appeal tips when selling your home in Indianapolis? We’ve got you covered.
First impressions can make or break a home sale, and nothing influences that first impression more than curb appeal.
When potential buyers drive up to your home, the exterior is the first thing they’ll see, and it will set their expectations for the rest of the property. A well-maintained exterior gives them confidence that the inside is just as cared for. The way your house looks from the curb can have a huge impact on how quickly it sells – and for how much.
If you’re selling your home, even small changes can make a big impact when it comes to curb appeal. From quick fixes to larger improvements, there are many ways to make sure your home stands out for the right reasons.
To help you get started, we’ve put together the best curb appeal tips for selling a home in Indianapolis, with advice on what to do – and what to avoid – so your home stands out in a competitive market.
What is Curb Appeal, and Why Does It Matter?
Curb appeal is all about how your home looks from the outside.
It includes everything from your front yard and driveway to the condition of your roof and siding. The goal when boosting curb appeal is to make your home as attractive as possible to potential buyers so that they’re excited to step inside and see more.
The Importance of Curb Appeal
Why does curb appeal matter so much?
Homes with strong curb appeal often sell faster and for higher prices.
According to research, younger buyers especially place a high value on how a home looks from the outside. In fact, 76% of homebuyers aged 25-34 said curb appeal was a major factor in their decision to buy a home.
In the Indianapolis real estate market, curb appeal can add up to 7% to a home’s value. That’s why making sure your home looks great from the street can give you a big advantage when selling.
How to Improve Curb Appeal Before Selling
So, how can you improve curb appeal before selling your home?
The good news is that it doesn’t always take major renovations or huge expenses. Small, simple changes can make a big difference.
Here are the best ways to enhance curb appeal and help your home stand out in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas.
10 Ways to Boost Curb Appeal for Your Home in Indianapolis
1. Keep Your Lawn Trimmed and Edged
One of the best ways to enhance curb appeal is by keeping your lawn neat and tidy. A well-maintained lawn tells buyers that you care about your home.
A study done by the National Association of Realtors shows property values can decrease by up to 30% due to poor landscaping alone. Seventy-eight percent of real estate professionals say poor landscaping and hardscaping negatively affect a home’s value. Real estate professionals in the Midwest were the most likely to say that poor landscaping could negatively impact a home’s value.
In short, there’s a good amount of data that points to landscaping as an important consideration for anyone preparing to sell their home in the greater Indianapolis area.
Make sure your grass is not only trimmed but also edged along pathways and driveways to give a clean, finished look. You can also reseed any patchy areas or add fresh mulch around plants for an extra polished appearance.
To get started:
- Mow regularly and trim the edges of your lawn.
- Use mulch around flower beds for a neat look.
- Water your lawn and add fertilizer as needed for greener grass.
2. Clean Your Windows
Dirty windows can significantly reduce the amount of natural light entering your home, making it appear darker and less inviting. In contrast, clean, streak-free windows let in more light and can make both the exterior and interior of your home look more appealing.
Take the time to clean all windows inside and out to let in natural light and make your home look fresh – both inside and out.
To get started:
- Use a vinegar-water solution or glass cleaner and a squeegee to clean your windows.
- If you don’t have time to clean the windows yourself, window cleaning services are commonly available through local companies or larger cleaning franchises.
3. Repaint or Replace Your Front Door
Your front door is one of the first things buyers will notice, so it’s important that it looks clean and fresh. If your door is looking worn, consider giving it a fresh coat of paint in a color that complements the rest of your home.
Repainting or replacing the door can have a return on investment (ROI) of up to 75%, according to a study by Remodeling Magazine. A fresh coat of paint in a bold but appealing color – like red, blue, or black – can make your door stand out without overwhelming potential buyers.
If the door is too worn, it might be better to replace it entirely with a new energy-efficient model, which could appeal to buyers concerned with utility costs.
To get started:
- Choose a color that complements your home’s exterior without clashing.
- If repainting, sand and clean the door first, then use exterior paint.
- For replacement, consider an insulated door that can improve energy efficiency.
4. Pressure Wash Driveways, Walkways, and Siding
Dirt, grime, and mildew can accumulate on your driveway, walkways, and siding over time, making your home look older than it really is.
A good pressure wash can remove years of buildup and brighten up your home’s exterior. This is a cost-effective way to refresh your home’s appearance without major renovations.
To get started:
- Rent or buy a pressure washer, or hire a professional service.
- Focus on high-traffic areas like the driveway and walkway.
- Avoid using too much pressure on older siding to prevent damage.
5. Upgrade Outdoor Lighting
Well-lit homes not only look more inviting but can also appear more upscale.
Start by ensuring all existing lights are working properly and replace any bulbs that have burnt out. From there, consider adding extra lighting, such as path lights, solar-powered garden lights, or motion-sensor lights to highlight your home’s best features at night.
To get started:
- Replace broken bulbs with energy-efficient LED options.
- Add pathway lights to illuminate walkways.
- Install motion-sensor lights near the garage or backyard for added security.
6. Clean or Replace Gutters
Gutters are essential for directing water away from your home and protecting your roof, siding, and foundation.
Clean gutters show buyers that your home has been well-maintained and is less likely to have hidden water damage issues. Make sure your gutters are clean. If your gutters are sagging or cracked, it might be time to replace them entirely.
To get started:
- Clean your gutters before listing your property.
- Check for any cracks or damage that may require repair or replacement.
- Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs.
7. Add a Welcoming Porch or Entryway
The entryway is your home’s first handshake with potential buyers. A survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that 80% of buyers consider a porch or patio as a desirable feature when house hunting.
A clean, well-decorated porch with simple touches, like potted plants, a new doormat, or outdoor furniture, can make your home feel more inviting. Even if your porch is small, strategic decor can give it a cozy, welcoming vibe.
To get started:
- Sweep the porch and remove any clutter or unnecessary decor.
- Add potted plants for a touch of greenery.
- Consider installing a new doormat or small outdoor furniture to create a cozy vibe.
8. Repair or Replace Fencing
A well-maintained fence adds privacy and security, two features highly valued by buyers.
If your fence is leaning, broken, or has missing boards, it’s time to repair or replace it. A clean, sturdy fence can help define your property boundaries and create a sense of separation from neighbors.
To get started:
- Walk around your property to inspect the fence for damage or missing boards.
- Repair loose boards or repaint where necessary.
- If the fence is beyond repair, consider replacing it with a durable, low-maintenance material like vinyl or treated wood.
9. Update Your Mailbox and House Numbers
Small details like your mailbox and house numbers might seem unimportant, but they can actually play a big role in your home’s curb appeal.
A modern mailbox or stylish house numbers can create a cohesive look for your home’s exterior and help it stand out. Opt for a simple, classic style that matches the rest of your home’s design.
To get started:
- Purchase a modern mailbox or paint your current one for a fresh look.
- Replace old, faded house numbers with something bold and easy to read.
- Consider placing the house numbers in a highly visible location near the front door or garage.
10. Ensure Your Roof is in Good Condition
A damaged roof is one of the biggest red flags for potential buyers. Buyers are often wary of homes with visible roof damage because they know it can lead to bigger problems down the road, like leaks or insulation issues.
Ensure your roof is in good condition by ensuring it’s clean. Consider repairing any missing or broken shingles before listing your home. If you’re not comfortable getting up on your roof, hire a professional. While they’re up there, consider asking them to do an inspection.
While a roof check is part of the standard home inspection process after purchase, identifying issues early can give you time to address them and may help during negotiations with potential buyers.
To get started:
- Clean your roof and replace any missing or damaged shingles to ensure it’s in top condition.
- If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider upgrading to modern, energy-efficient materials that can increase your home’s value and appeal to buyers.
Check out our article, “Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in Indianapolis.”
Curb Appeal Tips for Selling a Home: What NOT to Do
Sometimes, homeowners try to make improvements that hurt rather than help. Here are a few quick curb appeal tips on what NOT to do:
- Don’t use overly bold or clashing colors: A unique color scheme might appeal to you but could scare off potential buyers.
- Don’t over-decorate: Too many decorations or plants can make your home look cluttered and uninviting.
- Don’t block walkways or windows with large plants: This can make the space feel cramped and less inviting, and block natural light from entering the home.
- Don’t leave out personal or seasonal decorations year-round: Personal items like lawn ornaments or holiday decorations that stay up for too long can distract potential buyers and be potentially off-putting.
- Don’t neglect small repairs: Broken fences, cracked walkways, and sagging gutters can give buyers the wrong impression about the overall condition of your home.
Curb Appeal Tips for Selling a Home Checklist: Before You Hire a Photographer or List Your Home
Before you put your home on the market or hire a photographer to take listing photos, it’s important to do one last check to make sure everything looks great. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you:
- Lawn and Landscaping: Make sure your grass is trimmed, your plants are healthy, and any flowers are fresh and colorful.
- Walkways and Driveways: Pressure wash hard surfaces to remove dirt and stains, and fix any cracks.
- Front Door: Repaint or replace the door if necessary, and make sure it’s clean and inviting.
- Windows: Clean all windows inside and out to let in as much natural light as possible.
- Outdoor Lighting: Test all outdoor lights to make sure they’re working, and replace any broken or dim bulbs.
- Roof and Gutters: Clear gutters and check the roof for any visible damage.
- Porch and Entryway: Sweep the porch, add simple decorations, and make sure the space feels welcoming.
- Final Walkthrough: Do a last walkthrough of the exterior, looking at everything from the perspective of a buyer. If anything looks off, fix it before the photographer arrives.
Selling your home? Check out our article “What Buyers Want: Top Selling Points for Homes in Indianapolis.”
Strong curb appeal is key to selling a home quickly and for the best price.
Conclusion
By following these curb appeal tips for selling a home in Indianapolis, you’ll ensure your home looks its best and attracts the right buyers. From a fresh coat of paint on your front door to adding some welcoming touches to your porch, small changes can make a big difference. For expert help or advice, reach out to The Brokerage Co. today, and we’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your home is ready to shine on the market!
