If you're planning to put your home on the market in the Albany or Corvallis area, our real estate agents know that updating your front yard is an excellent way to help your home sell faster and look its best. Follow this guide to add valuable curb appeal to your home.

• Start with the Basics
  Before you decide to undertake a huge landscaping project or give your home a fresh coat of paint, make sure that your front yard is clean, clutter-free, and well-maintained. A clean, maintained yard instantly appeals to potential buyers. Pick up any old toys, stray sticks, or wayward trash, as these items make your yard look cluttered and "dirty." Then, see that any garden tools or outdoor toys and accessories have a dedicated storage spot, like a shed or storage chest. Examine your front yard for anything that's broken or past due for repairs. For example, if your mailbox has a dent, fix the dent or replace it. If your gutters are broken, they should be replaced or repaired. 

• Upgrade Your House Numbers
  House numbers are frequently overlooked as a design element by many homeowners. Your house numbers should use an attractive font and complement your home's style, color, and other exterior features. 

• Refresh Your Front Entryway
  Giving your front entryway a makeover instantly adds more curb appeal to your home. If your door is in bad shape or doesn't suit your home, replace it with a door that helps your home make a terrific first impression. If your entryway has vinyl siding or cement, use a pressure washer to ensure that these areas are dirt-free. Add a fresh coat of paint to your front door and any trim or features in your entryway. Consider replacing your front door knob with an updated piece that complements the style of your home. Use decorative items, like doormats, potted plants, and outdoor furniture, to make your front entryway appear inviting and attractive to potential buyers. 

• Check That Your Garage Door Works
  Before you list your home, make sure that your garage door works properly and coordinates with the rest of your home. See that it's clean, free of dents, and open and closes with ease. A garage door that looks old and worn-out will negatively impact your home's entire exterior appearance. Replace a garage door that's past its prime so that it doesn't detract from your home's positive features. If you have a garage door opener, confirm that it's programmed correctly and working properly. 

• Add Flowers and Hardscaping
  Your landscaping is a vital element for optimizing your home's curb appeal. Start with your lawn; it should be neatly mowed, free of grass clippings, and appear healthy. If your lawn has bare patches, use sod or a fast-growing grass blend to fill them in. Next, turn your attention to your trees, shrubs, and bushes; they should all be neatly trimmed. Consider planting colorful flowers in your garden so that your home appears vibrant and welcoming. A fresh layer of mulch is also useful for helping your front yard look its best. Make sure to remove any dead plants or decaying vegetation. Now that your plants are tended to, consider adding hardscaping elements to your yard. These are especially appealing since they are low maintenance and offer a visual break from your greenery. Elements like stones and brick paths help make a visual impact. 

By making a few simple changes, you can add features to your front yard that will help your home sell. Ready to list your home? Contact us to get started!