Curb appeal remains the standard. If a house doesn't have it, the property is likely to languish on the market. A Michigan State University study estimated that good landscaping adds 6 percent to 11 percent to the eventual sales price of a home. It doesn't take a ton of cash to get curb appeal. Often a little bit of elbow grease will do the trick.
Here are the basics:
- Front yard and porch. Mow the grass and keep it green. Keep the porch immaculate - no dirt or bugs.
- Mulch all the beds. Flowers and shrubs help, but if the owner can't afford anything else, mulch will do the trick.
- Paint will pay off. Covering everything with a fresh coat of paint - preferably a neutral color - will help the house sell. Freshening up the front door is particularly important.
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