In tight economic times, trying to sell your home can be challenging. Your home will most likely be in competition with quite a number of similar residences, and buyers will be trying to get the most for their dollar. Homes that stand out – especially those which grab potential buyers’ attention right from the curb – are the ones that will get snapped up first. That means that curb appeal should go to the top of your “to-do list” if you’re intended to sell your home in the near future.
Though the economy appears to be better than it was a few years ago, recovery is still slow, and even stagnant in some areas. So look for home improvements which not only boost the look of your home from the street but also add value. Here are the top projects for sprucing up your home’s exterior and giving it a face lift.
Siding: According to recent studies as well as recommendations of real estate professionals, siding is one of the top home improvements in terms of return on investment. Of special importance are energy-efficient insulated vinyl siding products such as Crane, as well as fire-resistant fiber cement siding like that produced by The James Hardie Company. Both of these siding products are very low maintenance, which is a must-have feature. For the most part, today’s lifestyle calls for low-maintenance home materials like siding and windows. Leisure time is at a premium; homeowners don’t want to spend their weekends painting and re-caulking.
Gutters: Give your gutters a good inspection. Did this winter take its toll? Check for chipped, bent, or loose sections as well as missing downspouts. Gutters may be a small part of your home’s exterior, but gutters in less-than-good shape can indicate to a buyer that you may not have taken the best care of your home, whether or not that’s true. And with the spring rainy season soon upon us, you want to make sure your downspouts are in place and your gutters are working well so that water doesn’t pool up around your foundation or leave “lakes” in your yard.
The Front Entry: Your front door is your home’s main focal point. And it’s the spot a potential buyer will enter your home. Replacing an entry door that’s worn or sticks is a must if you’re planning on selling soon. Even if you’re not, dealing with a poorly-fitting or deteriorated door can be annoying for you, and you could be wasting energy with air leaks.
Hardware and Fixtures: Even if a new entry door isn’t in the budget, things such as new door hardware, house numbers, mailboxes, door knockers, and exterior light fixtures are a good way to accent your home’s exterior.
Masonry: If your home’s exterior has any masonry touches such as the foundation, stone steps, etc., make sure your stonework is in the best shape. Having it refreshed or updated is important. Check for cracks as well as loose or missing mortar, stone, brickwork, etc.
Enhancing your home’s curb appeal with exterior home improvements not only will make your home stand out, when you choose the right projects, you’ll add value to your home as well. If you’re wondering what types of home improvements are the most attractive in your specific neighborhood, consult a real estate professional. We can help with gutters, siding, exterior doors, and replacement windows.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
