How likely are you to make an offer on an ugly house? Few serious buyers will splash out on a house that lacks curb appeal.
In fact, a recent study shows that an attractive exterior house design can affect the price of your home by as much as 7.7%.
So, what can you do right now to increase curb appeal and the up the value of your house? Here are 4 ideas.

1. Replace Your Garage Door
Your garage doors have a considerable visual impact. They are one of the first things a prospective buyer will notice. If they’re old fashioned or non-functioning, they create a bad impression from the outset.
Garage door repair or replacement should be top of your list for upgrading your home exterior design. It’s one of those renovations that will pay for itself by increasing the value of your house.

2. Use Plants
The garden is one of the largest and most visually-impactful areas of your property.
Fortunately, there are plenty of shortcuts for those who aren’t blessed with green fingers.
Potted plants add instant front porch curb appeal but you can also place pots strategically around your garden to cover up bare patches.
Window boxes overflowing with pretty flowers create an immediate homey feel.
Tackle overgrown shrubs and trees with a pair of shears and make sure you keep your lawn mowed and edges trimmed.
An unkempt garden creates the impression that the house has been standing vacant for a long time, and buyers will wonder why.

3. Upgrade your Paving
Dirty, cracked concrete paving is nobody’s favorite thing.
Covering up these dated, unsightly surfaces with natural slate tiles is one of the cheapest ways to improve the exterior facade of your home.
A good cleaning with a power washer can make paving and brick driveways look as good as new.

4. Revamp the Entrance
First impressions count when it comes to your home too. Create an inviting feel by upgrading your porch.
Spruce up the railing, tidy up any clutter lying around and arrange the furniture symmetrically. Adding a porch swing is a charming touch.
Use paving stones to create a curved walkway from the street to your front door. This small addition draws buyers in and adds interest to a boring expanse of lawn, especially if you add plantings on either side.
There’s nothing better than a coat of paint to hive the front of your house a new lease on life. It’s also one of the best ways to get rid of a house that won’t sell.
Be sure to include some colorful touches, like bright shutters, to enhance the look.
Paint your front door in an inviting color and add a set of sidelights.

Beyond Exterior House Design
While it is important, exterior house design is only one aspect of getting your property sold fast.
Keep reading our blog for tips on how to market your home for a quick sale. You can also follow us on social media or register for regular updates on what’s hot and happening in the world of real estate.