Curb Appeal: Get Your Front Door in Tip-Top Shape to Sell

When your house is on the market, first impressions are everything. You house can’t exactly open its mouth and tell people how great it really is on the inside, so you want to make sure that the exterior looks as inviting as possible to get potential buyers into the door.

The number one way to get those people inside your house for a look? It’s the door itself!

Your front door is the first thing buyers notice about your home, so take the time to make sure it’s sending the right message. The entryway should be inviting, clean, and in good repair. Follow these tips to get your front door in the best shape of its life, and I promise you’ll be well on your way to quicker sale of your house.

1. Remove any screens or storm doors. Sure, these are important for everyday living, but when’s the last time you ever saw a cheap screen door featured in a glossy magazine? You’re not going to get rid of these useful items, but if they’re designed to be seasonal, take them down and store them so that your main front door can shine — and so guests and buyers aren’t held up at the gate with an awkward double door to negotiate.
2. Clean up your door’s exterior surfaces. If your door is stained or mildewed, crack out a hose and sponge and give it a good scrubbing. Check the paint job, too: If there are chips or cracks, it’s worth the few hours of effort to give it a fresh coat of paint. Your door will look crisp and clean, and buyers will assume that the rest of your home is as well cared for as the entryway — definitely a good thing.

   

3. Remove any personalisation. If you have a knocker, mailbox, or plaque with your name on it, take it down and replace it with a plain one. This is an important psychological trick that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Too much of your own personality — and there’s nothing more personal than your name! — makes it difficult for them to get in the mood.

   

4. Listen for squeaks and creaks. Step up to your front entry and test everything out. If you notice creaky boards on your porch or squeaky hinges when you open and shut the door, it’s time to make a few small repairs. Usually a shim or a well placed nail will solve floorboard issues; oil those squeaky hinges for smoother operations. You should also make sure your doorbell in functional and that your door swings open without sticking. If you’re not sure how to address the problem, a quick call to a local handyman is worth every penny.
5. Add a wreath for a touch of warmth. An inexpensive wreath is a welcoming touch that makes your home look inviting and lived-in. Stick with one made of natural materials (no fake flowers!) that fit in with the season for an attractive entryway.

   

With a front door in tip-top shape, your house is ready for its close-up!