Trying to sell your home in today's market can really be tough. There is no easy answer, no magical solution. However, you can use basic psychology to increase your odds that someone viewing your home will be most interested.
Realtors often talk about curb appeal and tell you to stage the rooms, remove clutter, clean out closets, and bake chocolate chip cookies just before you have a showing. All those are great ideas and lots of people do them. As for me; however, I'm more impressed with not just the overall look but the attention to detail.
What kind of message are you sending prospective buyers as they approach your porch? Most people overlook the little things - buyers usually don't. You can have a beautifully painted front door that looks great from the curb but have you replaced the door knob and hinges? Your front porch, no matter the size, can be your greatest selling point without realizing it.
A well-maintained and decorated porch can give you a psychological edge when selling your home. Think about it. What do you look for when buying a new car? The rack and pinion steering or the paint job and leather interior? We buy with our eyes, less with our minds. Now put that knowledge to work.
Make sure the sidewalk leading to the porch is free from weeds and cracks. Repair small cracks and consider replacing sidewalks with large separated areas or damaged by frost heaves. Pay attention to the steps leading to your porch. Steps should be level and square to the porch and in good repair. Railings should be rust free and freshly painted if wrought iron. Give wood railings a fresh coat of paint.
As you climb the steps your eyes will see the bottom of the columns and the porch flooring first. Make sure your porch floor is clean and has been freshly painted. Clean the globes on your porch lights A new door bell makes a nice impression.
Are the moldings around your door clean and freshly painted? Hang a colorful wreath on your door. Clean your window glass and make sure that your porch furniture is
clean and inviting. Your porch can be your greatest asset. Make the most of it when selling your home!
Dave R. Morris is a co-founder of http://www.Front-Porch-Ideas-
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