A New Kind of Curb Appeal

It’s not only your neighbors and friends that will judge your house by its cover—according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), potential homebuyers say that curb appeal is most important when house hunting. And they’re not talking about a manicured yard and bushels of lively flowers welcoming onlookers.

Nowadays, potential buyers are searching beyond the look of your landscaping and straight at structural issues (ie. broken windows, loose gutters, jammed doors, etc). In order to really make your home seem warm, inviting and most importantly, safe, it’s those bigger improvements that need your attention.

The good news? Setting pride for your home aside, updating and polishing its exterior can put money (and possibly lots of it!) into your pocket if/when you decide to sell. These types of remodels are on the less expensive end of the spectrum and because they are highly desirable, they can recoup a high percentage when selling.

Take a look at what some common exterior replacement projects cost and what percentage it can potentially recoup. (Courtesy of 2014 Cost vs Value Report). 

ENTRY DOOR REPLACEMENT

96.6%  (wowza!) Added bonus: More than just a focal point for your home, it also comes with peace of mind, which is priceless – isn’t it?                                                                                                                                                                                      

WINDOW REPLACEMENT:

71.2% Added bonus: Not only can replacing your windows give your whole home a face-lift, but it can also save you money on energy bills by keeping air from escaping or flowing in.

REPLACEMENT SIDING:

78.2% Added bonus: Newer siding protects itself from the elements the longevity on this is worth it. Even if you’re not planning on selling in the foreseeable future, the added bonuses of these replacement projects are well worth the investment. Not to mention, those neighbors who like to judge will just have to look for a different book.

Even if you’re not planning on selling in the foreseeable future, the added bonuses to these replacement projects are well worth the investment. Not to mention, those neighbors who like to judge will just have to look for a different book.