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Getting Your Home Attention in a Slow Market

Let’s face facts; trying to attract attention to your home when selling in a “soft” real estate market isn’t an easy proposition.  But, there are some things to do to help get potential buyers to pay attention to your home even when times are tough.  Buyers spend much of their time outside the front door while the real estate agent is opening the lock box.  This is usually the time when people will inspect the condition of the front entrance and exterior of a home.  It’s so important to make a great impression on potential buyers at this point.  What buyers see as they look at the front of your home can make or break a sale.

There are several tasks you can do to hurry along an offer in a slow market.  First, inspect the exterior of your home thoroughly, especially the front entrance and front door.  If the front door is dirty, simply wash down the door.  If the paint is worn or starting to peel, a good application of exterior paint is in order.

To give “eye” appeal, place a new mat at the front door and make sure all door hardware is shiny.  Remove any dirt and cobwebs from overhangs, corners and window screens. Thoroughly inspect the windows for any cracks or chips and make sure screens are in tip-top condition.  Windows should be “sparkling” clean as well as screens.  A clean, well-kept front exterior is a good sign the rest of the home is worth a look!

Repaint the trim around your home if it has become worn.  If it is simply dirty, wash off with a hose.  House numbers visibly placed on the exterior of your home is always important, but artistically placed they will make a good impression on buyers.      

Make sure your front landscaping is attractive.  Trim any overgrown shrubs or trees, making sure to remove any dead or ailing plants.  Try planting some pretty flowers near your front door or place some pots around the walkway to give your home a cheerful and inviting look.  Flower beds should be free of weeds and driveways clean and swept. Remove any weeds that are growing through cement cracks on front walkway or driveway.   Concrete that is worn or dull looking can be stained with one of the decorative stains on the market for concrete driveways and walkways.  This will invite home buyers into your home to take a further look. 

Does your home have curb appeal?  Step back and take a good look at your home.  The lawn should be green and manicured.  The front entrance should be immaculate and appealing to the eye.  Are there any areas you have missed?  Make sure you take care of any problems before calling a real estate agent.  This will save time in the long run and give the agent a better idea of the market value of your home.