courtesy Robert Northfield
First Impressions go a long way. When a potential buyer pulls up to a driveway of a home they are interested in, initial observations will be made.
- Does the home look well-maintained from the outside?
- Is the lawn mowed?
- How does the house look from the curb?
- Could I see myself pulling my car into this driveway?
Are there weeds growing? - If the front of the house looks unkept, the buyer may be wary of what is inside.
One simple way of making a great impression for potential buyers and enhancing curb appeal is by adding flowers to the front of the house, next to the mail box, and also hanging baskets by the front door.
For less than $75 homeowners can purchase a flat of flowers, hanging baskets, a pair of gloves, trowel, and a bag of dirt, and at least two hours of your time to plant the flowers. Be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen when working outside.
Since New Jersey is infamous for animals feasting on flowers, there are some deer resistant blooms that are easy to maintain and add a pop of color to any lawn. One suggestion for flowers is the vinca, an annual, that is hearty and comes in a variety of colors. It is a perfect flower to plant because it is easy to maintain, and you won’t have to worry if they die before the season ends because the vinca last from spring until fall.
Other items to add to your curb appeal check list are painting the front door and front steps, replacing door hardware with new ones, replacing broken front rusty light fixtures, replacing rusty mailbox, etc. which could impact how a buyer will respond to the home and how it has been maintained.
Strapped for time prepping your home for sale? Consider hiring a lawn mowing service so you do not have one extra item to worry about as the selling process can be overwhelming. Price out services, which can start from $45 and above depending on what your needs are.
Example of good curb appeal at a Summit, NJ house (courtesy Robert Northfield)
What are your favorite flowers that you planted? Please share photos of your garden work! Email them to villagegreennj@gmail.com.
Robert Northfield is a top real estate expert in the Maplewood, Milburn, South Orange, West Orange areas and surrounding towns at KW Midtown Direct.
