First impressions count: How street appeal can make or break the sale

You never get a second chance to make a first impression and nowhere is that more apparent than through a home’s kerb appeal.

And Bree Currall of Belle Property Kingston says many potential buyers are deciding whether they are attracted to a property long before they actually see the bricks and mortar.

“They’re creating their shortlist online. That’s why presentation and great photography is so important,” she says.

“Buyers are looking for a reason to discount a property from their consideration and if you haven’t got those two elements right, then your home may well not make the cut.”

Currall has a checklist of key items for the exterior presentation of a home.

“Make sure your garden is well-maintained, lawns are mowed and edged, bushes and trees are trimmed and driveways are weeded – buyers need to know a home has been cared for,” she says.

Simon Porter of Luton Properties Canberra City says it’s important that the exterior home presentation shapes up against neighbouring homes.

“Buyers will compare and contrast your property against those around you to form a kind of ranking,” he says.

“I once approached a neighbour and got permission to mow his lawn as well, just to improve the street appeal for a home I was selling. Details count.”

Porter says a home with strong street appeal can foster stronger competition to buy.

“If a home presents well throughout, then it’s likely to attract more viewings and stronger numbers are more likely to generate competition to purchase,” he says.

How to make the cut:

• Online cut. Buyers are researching potential home choices online but their aim is to eliminate homes from their shortlist. External presentation and professional photography is essential in making the cut.
• Keep it fresh. Buyers assess home presentation from the moment they park their cars. Ensure yours compares well against neighbours: lawns should be mown, foliage trimmed, painted surfaces refreshed as required.
• A numbers game. Top home presentation will attract more potential buyers to inspections. The more people inspired to inspect expands the pool of interest and the likelihood of competitive bids.

Homes on the market with kerb-side appeal:

JACKA

30 STARCEVICH CRESCENT

PRICE GUIDE: $930,000 +

EER: 4

4 bed 2 bath 2 parking

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WAMBOIN

41 MERINO VALE DRIVE

PRICE GUIDE: $1.165 million +

4 bed 2 bath 5 parking