The way the ‘curb appeal’ phenomenon applies to Metro Atlanta homes for sale is explained simply enough. Like product packaging on a store shelf, its mission is to break through the competition—to strike a responsive chord with potential buyers.
That is the goal, but no Atlanta home for sale can possibly ‘bat a thousand’ when it comes to curb appeal, since buyers start out with differing mental images of what constitutes an ideal home. For some, it’s a well-kept colonial; for others, a clean-lined contemporary. Today, most house hunting begins with an online home search for Atlanta listings. Each offering is introduced via its exterior glamour shot…making it possible to form quick impressions of the whole gamut of properties for sale in an Atlanta neighborhood. The professional pictures that I provide to my clients are the first pass at curb appeal—the “online” kind. For homes that pass that first hurdle, the next test is the pull-up-to-the-curb experience. Making the most of that first impression can, and in many cases will make all the difference.
Dozens of websites tout landscaping “tips” for maximizing curb appeal and these for the most part confirm what common sense would tell us anyway: cut the grass; plant more flowers or shrubbery; paint the front door; keep everything neat and clean…not exactly rocket science!
Of course, as showings become imminent, every homeowner will hose off the walkway, sweep the porch, broom out the cobwebs. But before that stage—before the listing photography is done, it’s a worthwhile exercise to step back and take in the overall impression that first-time visitors are going to get. Step out front—then take the same walk your visitors will be making, but try seeing it the way that they will.
If the exterior siding isn’t very clean looking, it’s worth considering getting a professional power wash or exterior paint touchup which will make a substantial improvement. Getting rid of even traces of grime can subtly turn an ‘okay’ impression into a strongly positive one. A fresh doormat is a simple addition; likewise, scouring or replacing tarnished or pitted hardware (like address numerals, doorknobs, locks and mailboxes) can subtly and simply transform a first impression.
When you allow yourself to abandon your everyday perspective, fresh ideas and energy have a way of materializing. Putting your house up for sale is also infinitely easier when you have an experienced Atlanta Realtor helping out from the very start — give me a call at 678-671-6767 to discuss other options for sprucing up your home or to schedule an in-home consultation.
