They say that first impressions are the most important, and it’s certainly true when it comes to real estate. Most buyers these days flip through house listings on apps or websites, and the first thing they consider (once they’ve filtered for price and location) is the exterior appearance of the home. That’s almost always the first photo that buyers see, and it often determines whether they will dig deeper or move on. The same is true for drive-by browsers. If a house doesn’t have curb appeal, you may be in trouble.
The problem for house flippers who want to use their house flipping loans prudently is that landscaping and exterior paint jobs can be incredibly expensive. Fortunately, there are a number of simple ways that you can boost curb appeal with simple, affordable changes.
- Paint the front door and trim.
You don’t need to paint the whole house to make it pop. A bright front door adds character and charm to a home and is a job that can be finished in under an hour. Choose a deep red or a bold blue – just make sure that the color goes well with the rest of the house. If you have the time, consider also painting the trim around the door and any front windows.
- Power wash.
If the front door has a rusty screen door, the driveway has oil stains, or the siding is looking old and grimy, break out your trusty power washer and make everything look fresh and new again. You should also pull any weeds that are obtrusive or unsightly.
- Invest in potted plants.
Most gardening departments have a clearance section where you can buy plants for 50-90% off. Look for plants that already come in decent looking pots, or buy a few ceramic pots that will let you display your plants nicely. And be sure to pick plants that are hardy – no flowers that will die without a day of watering. Opt for succulents or shrubs that will add color and warmth. Arrange the plants in the front yard, and when the house sells, collect them up and take them to your next project.
- Buy new house numbers.
Nice new house numbers will cost you a few dollars each, and they’ll make the house both look nicer and be easier to find.
All of these changes can be made for under a hundred dollars. For bigger remodels, remember that ZINC Financial’s residential rehab loans can help you invest in better properties and give you the cash you need to complete renovations quickly and professionally. Give our office a call at (559) 326-2509 to learn more.
