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