Beauty is also on the outside

By Jule’ Dunham
Greetings from the World of Real Estate with Julè. Last week, I mentioned tax refunds. So, now is the time to start considering how to make your home attractive to buyers so anxious to get into their new home.
Seniors! How are you going to make the exterior part of your home more attractive? Let’s start with the entrances and exits. You have heard the old saying, “Safety First”. Well, it’s good to be in the habit of safety first. Not only does it save injuries, but lawsuits as well.
Here are some suggestions that I hope you will consider for not only your visitors’ safety, but yours as well. 1.) Would handrails be of assistance for someone with a little trouble walking or trying to get to the entrance of your home?
If so, you will want to add handrails to both sides of the step(s). 2.) Install a no-step, no trip threshold as well. 3.) Install deadbolt locks and/or slide latches or chain locks o exterior doors. 4.) Do you have a security peephole in your entry doors? Knowing who is on the other side of the door is very important for your safety. Having a security peephole installed would be to your advantage. 5.) Another form of door security is the camera or other electronic system for seeing who is at your entry door. 6.) Put a chair or bench near the exterior door for placing packages while locking or unlocking the door. This will allow you to be hands free while unlocking the door. 7.) Install sensors on outdoor light fixtures to automatically turn lights on at dusk and off at dawn and/or when motion is detected. 8.) Do you want potential buyers to locate your home easily? It can be rather frustrating when trying to locate a home when there are no address numbers that are visible from the street. Ensure that your house numbers are easily read from the curbside. 9.) Repair holes, loose bricks or uneven pavement on exterior walkways.
We wouldn’t want anyone to trip. 10.) All paths should be clear of any debris such as leaves, mold, moss or anything that may cause someone to slip. 11.) All throw rugs should be removed from the front stoop and inside the foyer. There is a reason they are called “throw rugs”. 12.) Hallways should be free and clear of any clutter. This will allow your potential buyers to move through the hallway more easily.
Are you wondering how you can get these projects done? Speak with someone at your church.
There should be someone there to put together a group of people, especially those youngsters that need something to do, that can help you get all of these projects not only completed, but the pleasure that comes with helping our seniors. Bake them some cookies, cake or other refreshments to serve to them while they are diligently working on your home.
Even if you decide not to sell your home, these improvements will be something you will enjoy.
Look for more tips next week on how to “get your home fit”.
As always, thank you for reading my column and have a blessed week.
Should you have any questions or a topic you would like addressed, please feel free to contact me.
Here is your local realtor, Julè Dunham, signing off until next week.
Crye-Leike Realtors
Julè Dunham, Affiliate Broker, SRES, RENE. Contact her by phone at 901-828-8471 (cell) or 901-840-1181 (office) or by email to: [email protected] for an appointment to speak with you, your group or club.
“Let’s Make This Happen Together”