Does your home stand out in Arizona’s buyer’s market?

Tim Orscheln

Submitted photo

House hunting usually starts with looking at property listings online, and seeing strong curb appeal from photos is one of the reasons why potential homeowners can look at a property, and it usually tends to be the first thing they see.”

Opinion

Roofing myths: What Arizona homeowners need to stop believing

Phoenix has shifted from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market after years of favoring sellers. Homeowners looking to sell now need to put extra effort into making their properties stand out, starting with curb appeal.

Curb appeal is the attractiveness of a property for sale that can incentivize potential buyers to purchase the home just by its appearance. First impressions are everything, and sellers need to ensure that the exterior of their home is appealing and well-maintained, including the roof, foundation and landscaping.

With strong curb appeal, sellers have a higher chance of selling their property faster and can receive better offers since there’s no maintenance that the potential buyer needs to take care of out of their own pockets. In a market where buyers have plenty of options, investing in your home’s exterior can make the crucial difference between a quick sale or a listing that lingers.

House hunting usually starts with looking at property listings online, and seeing strong curb appeal from photos is one of the reasons why potential homeowners can look at a property, and it usually tends to be the first thing they see.

If you’re currently selling a home or about to in the future, here are three areas you need to confirm have strong curb appeal for a greater chance of selling:

Landscaping

A well-maintained and visually appealing landscape significantly enhances the overall impression of a property. Trimming overgrown bushes creates a neat and inviting appearance, while regularly mowing the lawn ensures your home looks like it’s been cared for.

By planting fresh, seasonal flowers and greenery, you can add a burst of color and life that can catch the eye of someone who passes by or a potential buyer. Installing a charming pathway to the door can also elevate curb appeal, guiding visitors toward the entrance with a welcoming touch.

Even small details, like a new mailbox or well-chosen garden decor, can help create a memorable first impression that lasts beyond the initial glance.

These simple steps not only make your property stand out in a competitive market but also signal to potential buyers that your home is cherished and move-in ready.

Exterior

Paying attention to the exterior of your home is essential for making a strong first impression and attracting buyers in a competitive market. Repair any broken elements, such as doors, windows or cracks in the foundation, to confirm your property is presentable.

Freshen up the look by repainting areas where paint is peeling or faded, including the front door, window trims, shutters, and siding, to instantly uplift your home’s exterior and create a polished, inviting appearance.

These updates improve the exterior appearance and indicate to buyers that the home has received regular maintenance.

Roof

A roof in good condition is crucial for strong curb appeal and can significantly boost a home's perceived value, since it’s usually your biggest expense. Address broken shingles and damaged roofing material promptly and fix any seals or stains that may detract from the overall appearance.

Some homeowners might think that painting the roof can be an easy fix to its appearance, but it’s important to note that the paint can chip and fade with time, requiring ongoing maintenance. For long-lasting results and a stronger selling opportunity, focus on repairing and maintaining the roofing material itself. A sturdy, well-kept roof signals to buyers that the home is protected and move-in ready.

To ensure a thorough evaluation, arrange for a professional roof inspection so that any hazards or urgent maintenance issues can be promptly identified and addressed.

If a homeowner focuses on these three areas, they can greatly increase their property's marketability, attract more interested buyers and help guarantee a smoother, more successful selling process.

Editor’s note: Tim Orscheln is founder and CEO of Phoenix-based equity maintenance and roofing service HomeLyfe. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.