Bargain Network Defines the Basics of Curb Appeal

A house’s curb appeal is the equivalent of what people call “chemistry” when talking about someone they like or dislike. The goal for every seller is to get potential buyers at the door, so no matter how great the house looks in paper, the buyer’s first impression of the house is a vital part of the selling process. Bargain Network, a service that helps members find the houses and condominiums they want at bargain prices, reports that curb appeal can mean the difference between a successful selling or a property sitting in the market for months.

Members visit Bargain.com to browse listings of over 250,000 bargain homes, and with multiple options at hand, they hit the road to find the right property for their needs. Many are surprised to see houses that look so unattractive that not even the bargain sell price is enough to convince them to come inside to take a peek. On the other hand, if the exterior looks good, it sends a message that the current owner has taken care of the property and builds confidence in the buyer at the very first sight.

Although years of neglect can’t be fixed or disguised in a couple of days, there are pretty inexpensive ways to improve their property’s curb appeal. Sellers have to evaluate their property as a potential buyer would. Taking several pictures of the exterior from different angles will provide enough material to study and decide what actions to take, as listed here by Bargain Network:

-- Tackle cleaning and repair chores before adding decorations or beautifying objects

-- Kill mildew and mold on the house, roof, sidewalks and driveway

-- Trim tree limbs that are near or touch the home’s roof

-- Make sure roof is free of dirt and debris

-- Pressure wash the exterior of the house, from gutters to driveway and deck or patio

-- Clearly define the edge of driveway and sidewalks

-- If budget allows, paint the entire house. If money is an issue, embellish the curb appeal by painting the garage door and the main door.

-- Repair loose items such as screens, shutters, trims, steps, etc.

-- Mow, fertilize and water the lawn

-- Add flowers or colorful plants to the front of the house

-- Paint or replace the mail box

-- Accessorize the exterior by adding or replacing the old light fixtures, doorbell, doorknob and hardware

-- Use lighting to improve evening curb appeal. Add a decorative street lamp or string low voltage lights on the outside, near landscaping elements.

In addition to learning practical ways to increase the curb appeal of any property, members know they can save up to 50% on over 250,000 bargain homes, including foreclosures, HUD homes and other real estate properties when they visit Bargain Network.