Vancouver Island Real Estate Information

There’s an old saying that goes, “You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.” This statement is even truer when it comes to Vancouver Island real estate. It’s what we call curb appeal – the first impression buyers get when they drive up to your house. If they like what they see on the outside, it sets the stage for a positive showing. However, the opposite is true if the lawn needs mowing, trim needs painting, etc., giving your potential buyers the impression that your property hasn’t been well maintained – even before they open the front door. The possibility that they’ll reject your home simply because of the front view is there. However appealing the interior of your home is, the first impression of your yard is in their mind.

First impressions – good and bad – start at the front of the house. It’s the first and possibly only view they’ll see when they first review potential listings to view with their chosen salesperson. The photo on your listing photo is an invitation to visit your home. But a picture of windows overgrown with shrubs or a line of garbage bins by the garage will do little to project an inviting exterior.

By understanding curb appeal, you can make it work to your best advantage. If you’re a seller, here’s something to consider . . . the usual sequence in which a buyer assesses a property. First, the front view; next, the interior showing, and then – if there’s serious buyer interest – a look at the yard, the rest of your home’s exterior and the garage. When buyers walk around the back yard it’s a good sign because it means that everything up to this point has met with their approval. At this stage, they may have already decided to make an offer and are now just trying to pinpoint any potential problems. So, if your exterior needs work, but time or finances are a problem, it makes sense to concentrate your efforts on the front. Consider just painting the front door and windows facing the street. Move flowerpots and baskets to the front if you have any in the back yard. Turn on outdoor lights in the evening and make sure your interior lighting is bright. Jazz up your front door by attaching a wreath. You want your home to stand out from the rest.

A little hard work will go a long way to earn positive curb appeal and it costs very little. Mow the lawn and trim the bushes. Wash the doors and windows on the street side at the first floor level. Ask me for my advice on how to maximize the curb appeal of your Vancouver Island home. I’ve seen the reactions of countless buyers, and I know what works!