The first sight prospective buyers see when pulling up to an open house is the yard and exterior of the home and this first impression can have a big impact on whether a property sells. Many buyers will connect what they see on the outside of the home with how attractive the inside may be. Improving curb appeal is an important part of selling a home, and it’s also one of the most simple and affordable actions sellers can take.

Spruce Up the Exterior

Over time, natural wear and weather can take their toll on the outside of a home, making it appear older and lifeless. Improving the exterior is a quick fix and homeowners can begin by washing the outside frame of their home to remove dirt and grime. The finished product can also help owners determine if a fresh coat of paint is in order. In addition, current owners can make their homes stand out more by painting shutters and doors a different color than the home itself.

Many consumers replace indoor fixtures when updating their homes, but it’s important not to dismiss the outside as well. Replacing door handles, house numbers, mailboxes, locks and frames can not only make the home stand out more, but also give the house a more modern and practical feel, according to MSN Real Estate.

Lastly, homeowners with fences should give them the same care and attention as the home itself. Missing pikes should be replaced, and repainting white or colored fences that have been damaged by the sun is also important in maintaining a modern look.

Beautify the Yard

Pulling up to a home covered in leaves and dead grass is not the first sight owners want buyers to see. Laying down mulch and conducting some basic landscaping can go a long way in making a lawn look healthier. In addition, owners should make sure trees, bushes and shrubs are properly trimmed, and pull out weeds that are hindering flower growth. Individuals who don’t have a garden can make their yards look more colorful by visiting a nursery and purchasing potted plants.

Also, tools, toys and other yard items should be removed from the lawn before an open house. This not only declutters the lawn, but also provides a measure of safety to the owner by preventing accidents from happening.

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See more of the beautiful East Greenwich, RI home above.