Volume XVI, Issue 4
4th Quarter 2008
Curbscaping—Adding Value
of
staging the
interior
of houses when preparing to place properties on
the market. “Companies that rate home
staging results report that a staged home can
potentially reduce selling time by half and improve
sales prices by 5% - 7%.”, writes author Peg
Guinta.
It stands to reason then, that an improved
exterior
is as important—if not more so — than interior
staging. It’s common sense that most buyers form
opinions as they drive by potential homes. “...a
home’s exterior is a powerful, pre-emptive
stage-setter, keeping prospects’ interest intact”.
In essence, the major elements: landscaping,
structural items and architectural features
should appear cohesive and well-kept.
Prospective Sellers need only take a close look at
their foundation plantings, a well-defined and
welcoming front walkway. Money Magazine, February
2000, reported that, “a nicely landscaped property
can allow owners to recoup 100-200% of their
investment at selling time”.
Another survey by HomeGain reported, “...that a
simple improvement such as ‘landscape & trim’ with a
typical cost of $432-$506 can bring an increase in
sale price from $1,594—$1,839...a 266% average
return.”
Patios, decks and inviting outdoor living spaces
heighten sales appeal and add real economic value
when it’s time to sell.
Sellers should concentrate on the following
elements:
· Front
Entryway
(make a good first impression...a welcome mat, a
wreath, brass knocker and kick-plate, benches)
· Color
(front door color is quick and
inexpensive...compliment the house/trim color, house
numbers, mailbox should be interesting)
· Hardscaping
(those items leading to the front door—slate, brick,
stone, etc.)
· Driveways,
porches and walkways
(here’s where you make huge impacts...no overgrown
shrubs, grass, loose slates)
Finally, don’t overlook the value of a tree.
According to the Council of Tree and Landscape
Appraisers, based on its maturity it can have an
appraisal value of between $1,000 to $10,000.
v
Source:
RISmedia, Peg Guinta, January 2008