Thursday, July 14, 2011

Increasing Your Silicon Valley Home’s Curb Appeal!

The summer real estate market is in full force here in Silicon Valley, meaning if you haven’t put your house in the Silicon Valley Real Estate market yet, now is the time to do so! The weather is warm, people are active and flowers are in bloom! This not only means that more buyers are actively taking advantage of the season in Santa Clara County, but also that summer is the perfect time for boasting your home’s curb appeal potential.
If you put your house on the market now, you’ll have the chance to show it off during the summer season. Take advantage of the season’s beauty! To help, I’m here as your Silicon Valley Real Estate agent to offer you tips and advice.

First off, I want you to walk to the end of your driveway, turn toward your house and just stare at it for awhile. Pretend you’re seeing it for the first time. This perspective will help you determine what on the house needs work. What will potential homebuyers notice when they see it for the first time? Fix the flaws and flaunt the perks!

Next, incorporate some of these affordable ideas into your front yard and exterior. A little change can go a long way when it comes to first impressions.

Make the front entryway stand out. You want this to catch the buyer’s eye, because this symbolizes the gateway that will lure the buyer into your home rather than just driving by it. Pinpoint it by flanking the walkway with two large pots of colorful flowers, laying a clean, welcoming doormat, and trimming the grass leading to the walkway. By using flower pots, you don’t have to worry about digging up the grass or spending more money on perennials.

Add a bench or garden ornament. This will add a welcoming, homey atmosphere to the yard. A bench will make the yard look livable and looks great under a large tree or on a covered front porch. A yard ornament, such as a birdbath or spinning wheel, adds color and texture to the yard.

Emphasize the lawn. Midsummer dryness can cause grass to wilt or die if not cared for properly. Plan to water the grass regularly with sprinklers, preferably in the early morning or at dusk, when the sun’s rays aren’t as powerful. Mow it on a regular basis too, with the blade slightly raised. This will keep the grass at a length that looks alive and healthy.

Spruce up what you already have. No need to purchase new trees or plant new gardens, especially if you already have foliage to work with. Consider laying fresh mulch around current trees and gardens. Trim bushes and trees so they look manicured and neat. If you decide to plant new flowers, plant them along the front walkway or driveway where they will gain immediate attention.

Repaint what needs painting. This could mean your window shutters, garage door, front door, porch railing, driveway or the entire exterior. When you look at the house from the curb, take note at paint chips. If anything looks like it’s had a fair share of wear and tear, give it a fresh coat of paint, which is one of the simplest and cheapest upgrades you can make that results in a significant, positive change.

Give everything a washing. If you’re sticking a “For Sale” sign in your yard, and you plan on hosting open houses, everything on the outside (and inside) of your home needs to look clean. Spray the exterior with a hose and use soap and sponges if needed. Wash the driveway, garage door, front door, mailbox, windows, walkways, exterior lights and lawn furniture. If you have a car in the driveway, wash that too. Make the whole scene look spic and span.

These ideas will get you on the right track toward gaining buyer interest and selling your home in Silicon Valley! As your Santa Clara County Real Estate agent, I can give you a fresh perspective on the appearance of your house, more curb appeal and selling tips, and insight into what current buyers are looking for from a Silicon Valley home. These are exciting times in the Silicon Valley Real Estate market, don’t let time pass you by!

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