If you think “first impressions last” only applies to people, think again. Like people, houses are often judged by outward appearances first. You might have spent a fortune renovating your bathroom or kitchen, but buyers won’t bite if your home’s exterior lacks that “wow” factor—curb appeal. This article from Examiner.com explains the importance of curb appeal in getting homes sold:
“Many sellers fix up the inside of their home but forget about something equally important – curb appeal.
Curb appeal is an essential part of selling your home. First impressions are lasting and play an important role in how a prospective buyer will value the property. If the buyer cannot get over what the home looks like on the outside, it’s unlikely he’ll be able to focus on the features and benefits of the home on the inside.
There have been times when buyers go to a home expecting what they were looking for on paper, yet because it had no curb appeal, they wouldn’t even get out of the car.”
Realtor.com says that 80% of buyers go online to look at pictures of houses for sale. Since they’ll end up visiting less than half of the homes they previewed online, curb appeal is crucial in attracting their attention. When prospective buyers like a house’s exterior, they enter the house with a positive mindset, and are more likely to see it as a perfect match.
If the lawns are untended or the roof is ragged, people go inside looking specifically for other problems—if they enter at all. Remember: buyers prefer purchasing houses that no longer need updating or repairs. One way to boost your home’s curb appeal is by installing siding.
Originally added as cladding against the elements, siding can also beautify and add character to a home. Wilmington and Newark, DE siding contractors like Homecraft® Inc. can install affordable, durable and high quality cedar shake or vinyl siding that will give your house a rustic look and make it stand out against the competition. Wood and vinyl siding add insulation to the home, meaning lower cooling bills in the summer and a warmer home in the winter.
If your house has been on the market for a while, consider calling on Newark or Wilmington, DE siding contractors to make your house more striking to home buyers. After all, one look might be all it takes to convince someone to buy your home.
(Article Excerpt and Image from The importance of ‘curb appeal’ when selling a home, Examiner.com, 3 December 2010)
