The Looks That Sell
18 August 09Presentation and appearance are always major factors when it comes to making an impression with your property. The impact your home makes on visitors when they walk through the front gate can be a big factor when it comes to value and its ability to sell.
These people will automatically be comparing your property with all the others they have recently seen before deciding on what they might potentially pay for yours. Even minor cosmetic issues like an unmown lawn can result in people quickly lowering their perception of value if they have just come from a similar property which was flawlessly presented.
The front of your property should make people feel at ease, whether they are on the street about to enter your property, or on the doorstep ready to walk inside. Your front garden should be a taste of what is to come and is your opportunity to convey a message of welcome, warmth and a high level of maintenance. Even oiling a squeaky gate hinge can make an impression.
Choose your planting carefully to complement the architectural style of your home. Because the entry is always on show, choose easy to maintain plants which look good all year round.
Be careful with proportions as huge trees can dwarf a small house and even give the impression of the house being dark and damp if too overbearing. Your garden should be designed to draw and welcome people to your main entrance. Try channeling the view towards the front door by decreasing the size of the planting as you get close to the doorway or use a focal point such as a specimen plant or a sculpture to draw the eyes forward.
When it comes to selling your efforts will certainly be rewarded with appreciation from potential buyers as they visualise themselves enjoying those extra qualities if they decide your home could become their home.