Although the housing market is showing no signs of slowing down and demand is far outweighing supply, it doesn’t mean you can’t still maximise the value of your home by giving the best possible ‘first impression’.

The first thing that a potential buyer sees when they are looking to view your home is the outside. How smart is your brickwork and paintwork? Do you have window sills flaking with paint? Do you have moss growing on your roof? Is your garden overgrown or has your front door seen better days?

All of these features can add to the appeal of your home – especially as buyers are currently stretched in their budgets and less likely to have an additional budget for home improvements.

The outside of your property acts as an advertisement for what’s inside – so take a look at the outside of your home and decide if it looks like the sort of place, you’d feel that you could move in and be instantly proud. Here are some tips on maximising the kerb appeal of your home.

Front door

This is the first contact buyers will have with your home – it needs to create a positive impression. If it’s made of wood, make sure that the paint isn’t flaking off and that it has a fresh coat in a popular colour such as navy, charcoal grey or black. If your door furniture has been better days, this is a quick way to instantly give it a makeover. If your door is PVC  either replace it or give it a good clean. For composite doors, make sure there’s no erosion and if you do see any, invest in some specialist products and paint to smarten it up. Also consider a smart slate or metal number plate and new outside wall light.

Paths and driveway

If you have a paved or concrete driveway or path, it could be transformed with a good jet wash. Over time it can become dark with weeds and discolouration. Hire a jet wash machine or even hire a professional – it could make a huge difference. If you have wooden decking take care not to use it as this can damage the wood, but it would also work on walls and garden patios.

Neaten up the boundary

It’s important to have smart, clear boundaries in your front and rear garden. Not only does this give a clear indication of where your plot ends, it will also make your property appear cared for. Give any wooden or iron fencing a lick of paint, neaten up grass verges and remove any weeds from flower beds. Trim any large bushes and make sure any gates and locks are in good working order.

Hide bins away

Make sure that your bins are stored neatly and in a location that isn’t immediately obvious. If they are overflowing with cardboard, make sure you get rid of this before any viewings take place. If your wheelie bins are in bad shape, talk to the council about getting these replaced. Consider a bin tidy to keep them completely hidden.

Colourful plants

Investing in some beautiful flowers and plants in the summer months can do wonders for your front and rear garden. Either plant them in flower beds or place potted plants around in the area – and remember any pots and baskets can be taken with you when you move. Hanging baskets and tubs can by your front door can make your home look warm and welcoming. Also ensure that your lawn is short and neat and there are no weeds anywhere.

Cleaning your windows

Hire a window cleaner or use suitable products to leave your windows clean and streak-free. Wash any window frames and consider giving them a coat of paint if they are wood.

Lighting

Wall lights can brighten the area around the door and make it look warm and inviting, especially when selling in the autumn or winter. You could also purchase solar lights along your pathway – again they can be taken with you when you move.

A working doorbell

If you have doorbell that doesn’t work, invest in a new one, otherwise it creates the impression that it may not be the only thing that isn’t working in the home!