It’s common practice when listing a home for sale to focus on the aesthetics of the front of the house in an attempt to woo potential buyers. Clean windows, freshly painted doors, and a trim lawn are at the top of every realtor’s list but here are several ways to take a property from “Ooh” to “Aah”:
Prune shrubs and trees. Since trees need to be pruned when they are dormant, you’ll want to think about this the winter before your listing goes live. It keeps the fear of a widow maker out of the hearts of potential buyers and alludes to great overall stewardship of the property
Add perennials to the front yard or garden. Even in a few strategically placed pots the bursts of color and changing blooms will catch and keep passing interest. Not to mention, sprawling sweeps of grass exude high maintenance. Try to choose a native pollinator that attracts birds, bees and butterflies, which will make the home feel lived in, even if its not occupied.
Include the backyard. Too many listings go live with lovely renovated interiors and a depressing bare dirt pit for a backyard, one that was very obviously heavily trafficked by contractors. Most clients see this and see a major undertaking, especially if the move is a significant relocation or they’re moving with children. Installing the bare bones for the backyard is an option. Include growing spaces that they can fill out on there own but lay the pathway and completing the hardscaping for a seating area. Even better would be to take the time to understand the neighborhood and what your clients might be looking for. Do people move here for schools? Include elements of a children’s garden or simply design with little hands and feet in mind.
Show it as a home, not a house. Remove pool covers and make sure all water features are sparkling clean in advance of showings, add fresh flowers to indoor and outdoor tables, include neutral outdoor furnishings. Create an atmosphere that will make clients want to linger and of course, want to return to! Throw open the doors to the lovely backyard and make it easy for clients to imagine their pets, family and friends filling the home with them.