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It’s what’s on the outside that counts!

Posted on April 17, 2008

A recent study produced by Hanley Wood LLC in cooperation with the National Association of Realtors’ REALTOR Magazine found that the most profitable projects for return on your dollar around the house were outside projects. When looking for the top returns for the dollar, upscale siding and/or fresh paint on the exterior recouped the highest percentage at 88%. Buyers first judge a home by its curb appeal. The “Cost vs. Value Report” purports that 3 of the top 4 projects with the highest return were outside investments. Following siding upgrades (or exterior painting), the addition of a deck (in our case that would be a new “lanai”:-) and new windows both returned over 80%. On the national average, the only interior job to generate over 80% was a kitchen remodel.

First impressions mean the most, so put your best “face” forward. Did you know a buyer develops an opinion of your property in 15 seconds! So, sweep those eaves and sidewalks, touch up paint & paint the front door a fresh, new color…plant seasonal, flowering plants…make sure all landscaping is neatly trimmed. There is more competition than ever; make sure at the end of the day your home is the one they remember first…and for all the right reasons!