Staging the Exterior of Your Home to Sell

3. Touch Up the Paint

When it comes to upgrading your home’s exterior, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. Repaint any exterior surfaces that appear faded or worn, such as the front of the house, gutters, trim, shudders, front door, or fence. Sticking with neutral tones like gray, black, brown, or white is usually the best bet.

Bright orange shutters may appeal to those with more eccentric tastes, but many other homeowners may find them off-putting. Try to avoid overly bright or overwhelming colors when painting any exterior home elements. If you plan to pressure wash any exterior features, make sure you complete that step before doing any painting.

4. Clean Gutters

A house can look stunning on the inside, but rusty or leaking gutters around its exterior may suggest otherwise. To increase your home’s curb appeal and encourage buyers to explore what the rest of the space has to offer, be sure to clean out your gutters and downspouts. It’s important that they’re attached, in strong condition, and not hanging askew off the house.

Some signs to repair your gutters include:

• Rusting metal or peeling paint.
• Overflowing rainwater in your gutters.
• Pooling water at the base of your home.
• Sagging, warped, or uneven-looking gutters.
• Staining along your home’s siding.
• Plants growing in your gutters.
• Mildew or staining in your attic.

Simply clearing your gutters of leaves, twigs, and other debris can make a world of difference in your property’s appearance. When left unaddressed, these materials can quickly clog your downspout. When clearing the grime from your gutters, use a ladder and always have someone spot you.

Alternatively, you can call in a professional to clean them out for you. Generally, gutter cleanings are recommended in September, then again in late October before winter weather is in full swing. A specialist can also handle more damaged cases that warrant full replacement.

5. Upgrade Light Fixtures

Examine all of your outdoor light fixtures to ensure they work properly and no bulbs are burnt out. Consider replacing any rusted or outdated sconces, then polish them to boost your home’s exterior presentation further.

While house showings typically occur during the day, consider flipping on these outdoor lights beforehand — a well-lit exterior can make the home feel brighter and more welcoming for viewers.

Aside from light fixtures, you should also check other hardware like doorknobs, mailboxes, and house numbers to see if any of them are due for an upgrade. These are usually quick, easy, and inexpensive fixes that make your home’s exterior shine. If possible, try to coordinate all of your hardware material for a clean, cohesive look that attracts buyers.

6. Add Some Decor

Finally, add some decorative outdoor touches to really sell the presentation. Here are some ideas to consider:

• A seasonal wreath, welcome sign, or new doormat for your front door
• Spotlights to illuminate pathways or garden beds
• A string of bistro lights for your yard or patio
• A comfy outdoor seating area with new cushions, colorful throw pillows, and a rug

Accessorizing your porch and yard is a great opportunity to entice buyers. Defining the outdoor space with more light, cozy furniture around a fire pit, and other decorations create an elegant, relaxing atmosphere. This is a great selling point for buyers looking to entertain guests.

While you’re in the process of enhancing your outdoor decor, be sure to remove any yard clutter that may distract or turn off possible buyers. Once all of your home’s exterior features are clean, updated, and in good condition, it’ll be ready to take on the housing market with style!