If you’re worried that your home’s curb appeal isn’t up to par, first focus on the home’s entryway. Potential buyers remember their thoughts when entering the home because it’s the transition from viewing the exterior to viewing the interior. They will acquire an initial judgment that future guests of theirs will view as well. You want to make this entrance as memorable as possible for them.

The buyer will first view the outside of this entryway:

• If you don’t have time or money to spend on repainting the entire exterior, take a good look at the paint around the entrance. This is what buyer’s will observe up close. Repaint areas that are chipped or stained.
• If a walkway leads to a cement block or covered patio, think about painting it. If you have a wooden front porch, restain it. Make sure this entire area is clean of debris. During winter months, shovel the snow away and sprinkle salt on top of icy patches.
• Take a good look at your front door. Does it contain nicks or cracks? How old is it? It may need more than a paint job. Some doors can be patched up with repair kits. In other instances, consider purchasing a new door. Doors come in multiple styles: wood, steel, fiberglass, aluminum and more. Even adding a storm door could aid with appeal and insulation.
• Clean the surrounding windows for a fresh, crisp appearance. Turn on your outdoor lighting to make sure they all work.
• If you own a custom name plaque or a Beware of Dog sign, take these items down. You want the entrance to appear neutral and inviting.
• Provide a plush welcoming mat for a clean appearance. This can help prove that the interior floors have been well-kept.

Through the front door, the buyer will view the inside for the first time:

• Make sure the flooring boasts a clean, shiny appearance. Display a plush mat or rug to reiterate the fact that muddy shoes were never an issue.
• Clean the windows inside, too. If any of the foyer windows include curtains, keep them open. Turn on the foyer light fixture and make sure all the bulbs work. You want the interior’s first impression to be bright and homey.
• Fill the foyer with neutral, welcoming accessories. Place a plant or a vase of flowers on a table. Offer a plate of cookies or light a scented candle. Hang a mirror or a clock. Take down any family portraits or other personal items that the buyer will not relate to.
• Lastly, use the time of year to your advantage! If a holiday is approaching, decorate the main attraction of your entryway. You don’t want to go overboard with holiday décor, but you can use it to attract the buyer’s attention to a selling point. If a grand staircase resides right inside, wrap a strand of holly around the railing.