Pick a colour scheme: Choosing a good colour is very important for the house’s street appeal. Rule out paints that will clash with colours that are unlikely to change – namely the colours of the trees and your neighbour’s houses. Don’t forget you’ll also need a separate colour for the trim and other architectural details like columns, shutters and a deck, unless you want the house to look washed out and boring. Make sure the second, or even third or fourth, colour goes well with the main colour you’re using. As a general rule stick to neutral colours – they have the largest appeal to buyers and tenants.
Choose the right sheen: Not all exterior paint is the same, so the colour won’t be the only choice you’ll have to make. Glossy paint usually shows imperfections easily, but often looks fresher. As a general rule, use higher gloss paint for small areas like windowsills and save flat paints for the bulk of the house
Replace the front door: The front door is often one of the first things people see. If the door is worn, warping or has some other flaw, replace it. This can change the entire look of the property, without costing much. There’s a wide variety of designs available, and there’s even different types of knockers to consider. If it’s a unit and replacing the door is not an option, at least consider getting the door painted or varnished.
Replace the letterbox: A letterbox is often one of the first things to deteriorate in the sun and other harsh conditions and just like the door, it instantly makes an impression. For $60 to $120, it’s not hard to find a striking letterbox that will immediately send a message to prospective buyers and tenants that the house has been well looked after.
Put up new house numbers: The $10 to $20 it requires to add new house numbers to a prominent place around the property, such as on the front fence, entrance or letterbox, can have a marked effect. Not only will it make the property easier to find, it sends out another subtle message that the property is well taken care of.
Tidy the garden: Landscaping will certainly create a great impression, but depending on your budget, it may not be necessary. At the minimum, make sure the garden is tidy. Get rid of any weeds and make sure no grass or other plants are growing in between paving. Prune back overgrown trees and cut down any plants that may be causing structural damage to the house. Consider the same treatment for trees that shed an access amount of leaves into gutters and outside areas.
