Fall is a wonderful time of year. The explosion of autumnal colours and crisp fall air work together to create the ideal season for home sales. More importantly, you face less competition from traditionalists who insist on selling their homes in the spring and summer. Curb appeal is more significant than ever, as today’s home buyers favour the drive by/virtual house viewing approach to house hunting. With that in mind, here’s our top tips on how to attract more home buyers with fall curb appeal.
Rake Those Leaves
Keeping a tidy front lawn is a challenge in the fall. However, a good raking each morning or evening keeps your lawn clear, providing a better view for potential home buyers. Fall winds can also send more trash your way, so be sure to clear away rogue coffee cups, newspapers, wrappers, etc., from under your bushes to keep things neat and inviting.
Leverage Pumpkins and the Harvest
Nothing says buy me more than a front porch decorated with the fruits of the fall harvest. Take full advantage of the bounty available with cheerful pumpkins, rustic corn stalks, and colourful gourds. Create a cozy welcome to draw attention to your home and stir-up warm feelings people associate with home. Just be sure you don’t overdo it! Simple, understated décor is best.
Invest in Fall Flowers
Even little corner stores in Toronto seem to sell potted fall flowers. Mums, asters, decorative cabbage, and other fall plants can easily be placed in your front flower beds to add an eye-popping burst of colour. Draw attention to smaller stoops by placing a small pumpkin or brightly coloured potted aster on each step.
Draw Focus to your Front Door
If you aren’t as excited about pumpkins and corn, focus on your front door instead. Hang a fall themed wreath and flank your doorway with fall flowers in urns. A new welcome mat completes the look. If budget allows, consider investing in a new front porch light, house numbers, mailbox, and door hardware. This quick front door makeover creates a good first impression when people arrive for a viewing.
Give Your Exterior a Good Washing
Once those leaves start to fall, more aspects of your home become visible. Take a good look at your exterior for areas in need of some TLC. Common issues include:
- Dirty windows
- Saggy shutters
- Flaking paint on window trim
- Tired porches
- Stained or dirty siding
A good power wash along with a fresh coat of paint on trim and porches can give your exterior a new lease on life. Check with your local paint store to make sure it’s not too cold to paint.
Skip the Halloween Décor
While you might pride yourself on having the spookiest house on the block, now’s not the time to indulge your goth side! Stick to simple fall decorations and save your Halloween décor for next year.
These fall curb appeal tips will help you draw in more buyers looking for a place to call home. For more information on how to attract buyers check out this blog.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
