Curb Appeal: Not All Upgrades Help
Be careful: overly bold paint colors or impractical landscaping can actually decrease a home’s resale value [https://bhg.com/curb-appeal-trends-that-lower-homes-value-11922504]. Focus on timeless improvements like quality front doors, subtle lighting, and well-maintained gardens [https://bhg.com/curb-appeal-trends-that-lower-homes-value-11922504].
Homes in certain regions see resale values impacted more significantly by curb appeal choices. For example, a study showed homes in the Northeast see a 7% decrease in value from poor curb appeal, while the South only sees a 4% decrease. This variance is often attributed to regional architectural styles and landscaping preferences. Real estate agents are increasingly advising sellers to focus on "return on investment" projects before listing. These include power washing, fresh mulch, and updated exterior lighting, which offer high impact at a relatively low cost. Conversely, elaborate water features and exotic plant species are often cited as curb appeal downgrades. These features can be expensive to maintain and may not appeal to a broad range of buyers. Some homeowners associations (HOAs) have strict guidelines regarding acceptable landscaping and exterior colors. Violations can lead to fines and legal disputes, further complicating the home selling process.
