First impressions really do count. Harris Real Estate Property Consultant, Georgie Todd, shares some ways to improve your property’s appeal.

What is KERB appeal?

How attractive your property is from the street or kerb can make your home more appealing to potential buyers. The design of the building, landscaping, the condition of the property and the general upkeep of the area surrounding the property can all affect a property’s kerb appeal.

Why does it matter?

“It’s very important for a residential house sale,” says Georgie. “When selling a house, first impressions are critical, and the front of the home is often the first thing that potential buyers will notice.”

The tidy up isn’t just important for the open inspections, it’s also key in order to maximise the effectiveness of your sales photography.

“Sales photography is the first thing buyers will see online and often determines their attendance at your open home – getting these photos right is crucial!

“A house with strong kerb appeal can create an emotional connection with buyers, helping them envision themselves living there and increasing the chances of them making an offer. It often sets the tone for how a buyer will engage with your property as they are walking through.

“If they get a bad sense from the start, they may become overly judgemental and start picking up on smaller things internally.”

Does it add value?

Yes, kerb appeal can add value to your home. A well-maintained and attractive exterior can create a positive first impression, which can increase the perceived value of the property. In addition to increasing the value of the property, improving kerb appeal can also make it easier to sell the home.

“A visually appealing exterior can attract more potential buyers resulting in a higher sale price for the property,” says Georgie.

Top tips to increase KERB appeal

1. Paint the exterior. If it’s a character home, you may want to look at repointing the stonework.

2. Select your colour scheme wisely. Stick with current trends like crisp whites complemented with dark tones such as monument greys and black.

3. Paint or replace front fencing. If it is a brush fence, ensure it has been recently manicured.

4. Paint your front door – a high gloss black looks fantastic on most homes, while a pop of colour works well to enhance external features.

5. Pressure clean the front of the home, as well as the driveway and pavers.

6. Replace front door lighting fixtures.

7. Invest in a new door mat.

8. Place an established plant at the front door – we love olive trees, topiaries, banana leaf or a potted fiddle leaf fig.

9. Add fresh mulch to garden beds.

10. Don’t stop at your front fence – if you are going to the effort to tidy up the front yard, we encourage you to tidy up the council strip at the front of your property. Even though this is not your responsibility, it goes a long way when trying to create that lasting impression.

Georgie Todd
Property Consultant
0420 492 936
georgie@harrisre.com.au
@georgie_todd_realestate