Invest in Your Home’s Value.

As more and more houses become available to buy in our Market once again what is one thing that could make or break the deal just by pulling into the driveway of an open house?  The answer is the curb appeal. Here are some useful tips that will help make your home more attractive to potential home buyers.

Replace old columns – Make sure your columns are not visually too small to support the roof. The standard columns are 4” x4”; by replacing them it will look better.

Change old light fixtures – Make sure when you hang your outdoor light fixtures that they are hung at the right height. Sconces should be hung a bit higher then eye level which will reduce glare. If you have an unusual high entryway, try to use independent lights. It’s a great way to add sophistication to your home.

Replace your windows – Older homes generally will benefit greatly from the energy saved with new windows the most. Remember to keep the style of the windows with your home’s architecture. Replacement windows are generally less expensive because they are made to sit inside the present frame.

Add dormers – They break up a large growth expense and provide depth and balance to the front of your home.

Add or replace shutters – Make sure your shutters are not too small for the windows. They technically should be wide enough to cover the window opening when closed.

Add flower boxes to windows – These add colour to your home’s exterior and make your windows and home in general appear taller from the street. Don’t forget that shrubs that become overgrown can easily “consume” a small home.

Landscape to the street – The straight hedge at the front wall of the house to the street are completely gone. Same goes for the lawn that has no point of interest at all it just goes on until it hits the street. Remember to group your plants together don’t spread them out and your décor outside should have focal points to draw a potential buyer to your property.  

Frame the doorway with plants – Some different plants you could try are: boxwoods, steeds holly, smaller holly trees, arborvitae or dwarf Alberta spruce. Pots are easier to move around and you can take them with you when you move.

Assess your roof – Make sure your roof is free of leaks. Black or slate gray asphalt roofs look best. Some other options for roofs could be pressure treated cedar shake, Slate or raised-seam metal roofs.

To find out some more useful tips please visit the Toronto Real Estate Boards website.