Home Front

Your property's landscape is not limited to the lawn and shrubs, but encompasses everything from the street to your doorstep. For this reason, you must make sure each component of the visual landscape is at its best. The real estate industry refers to this as "curb appeal."

Street - Make sure the street in front of your house is free of litter or debris. If necessary give it a fresh sweep.

Sidewalk - Sweep your sidewalk if needed and remove weeds that may be growing between the cracks.

Fence - A freshly painted fence gives a home a crisp look. You should never let a peeling, tired-looking fence or squeaky gate stand between a prospective buyer and a positive first impression.

Mailbox/Light Fixtures - A quick painting of an old mailbox will let the buyer know you care about the details. If outdoor lamps look rusted and worn out, new ones will cast a positive light on your property.

Landscaping - Neatly trimmed shrubs are essential. Taking the time to do this costs little, but has a big impact. Besides being freshly mowed and trimmed, a lawn should look healthy. If there are spots that look beyond help, a little sod goes a long way to restoring the look of a well-maintained lawn.

Front Walkway - Like the sidewalk, the walkway should be clean and free of weeds. If sections are badly cracked consider having them repaired.

Driveway - Make sure that the driveway is in good condition and has an attractive appearance. If it looks worn and weathered consider resealing before prospective buyers visit.

Paint - A fresh coat of paint can be one of the best investments you can make to increase the value of your property. If you do not want to spend the money to paint the entire house, consider just the shutters or the front of the house.

Siding - If you have vinyl or aluminum siding, have a cleaning service wash or repaint it using a product designed for these materials.

Windows - Attractive windows can help increase the appeal of your property.
Replace any cracked or broken glass.
Make sure the windows are sparkling clean.
Add shutters to the front of your house.
Install window boxes with bright flowers.
Apply touch-up paint where needed.

Roof - The roof may be the single most important aspect of your home front. A well maintained roof will say a lot about the overall condition of the property.
Replace any broken or missing shingles or tiles.
Repair

Doorway - The doorway is the focal point of your house.
Repaint the door.
Apply new door hardware.
Install a brass kick plate.
Replace house numbers.
Put a flower box or planter alongside the door
Install a new front light fixture.

Swimming Pool/Spa 
The swimming pool or spa should be sparking clean and in good operating condition.
Repair or replace broken tiles.
Patio and concrete decking around pool should be cleaned.
Replace worn or broken pool equipment (brushes, hoses, sweeps, pool covers, etc.)
If your pool is stained you may want to have a professional service drain and acid wash or refinish the surface.