What do they say? You have one chance to make a great first impression. Wouldn’t this apply to your home as well? Would you consider purchasing something without finding it appealing? Don’t we naturally gravitate towards things that are visually attractive?

What does the exterior of your home say? Does it say I’m well cared for and maintained or does it say it’s going to cost money to fix this mess?

As a Realtor it sometimes takes me a minute or two to open the house. So while I’m fiddling with the lockbox the buyer is looking around at the yard, looking at the door condition and checking out the exterior paint.

Real Estate is personal, emotional and sometimes can be difficult for a homeowner to objectively look at their home. The first step in staging the exterior should be to have a friend or neighbor view your house from the curb. Ask them “what is your first impression?” This type of “proofing” will help give your house a better curb appeal and a non-emotional perspective on your home.

Some important things to look for is to make sure your lawn is well manicured. Is your grass green or dirt? Dead or alive?

Remove any junk or clutter from the yard, including tree limbs, leaves and especially your children’s toys. Trimming trees and re-seeding any bare areas of the lawn, as well as adding mulch to planting beds and around trees, will improve the look of your lawn.

Another great tip would be to plant colorful flowers. Colorful flowers are easy to purchase and not costly, some great annual and perennials can be found at your local Wal-Mart or Home Depot. I wouldn’t say I have a green thumb so if I can do it anybody can plant a few flowers!

Other than making sure the lawn is aesthetically pleasing, you should look at your fences, windows, and screens. Fixing, repairing, and re-painting may need to take place. If you are missing some screens it will be noted in the inspection report. It’s probably cheaper to fix a few screens then it become a deal breaker between you and the buyer.

Make sure your driveway is clear of oil stains, thus power washing may be helpful. Don’t have a power washer? Call a painter! I contacted a painter I knew and he took care of a client’s driveway and even power washed the house. If you have a deck or porch make sure it is nicely stained or painted.

I don’t normally encourage someone to think in the gutter, but when you are selling your home you need to think gutters! Check your gutters to make sure they are cleaned out and in good working condition. Lastly, make sure the doorbell and all exterior lights are operational.

Remember first impressions matter. The better the impression your house makes on buyers, the closer you will be to having a For Sale sign in your yard. A great first impression opens the door for a great second impression with the interior of the home.

Next week: Part 2 - Interior Impressions.