One thing I have learned over the years of working in real estate is that you cannot pick the time of year in which you will obtain a listing. Chances are, depending on where you live and work, you will get a home to list in a not so pretty season. We, here in Cleveland, experience every season and everything in-between. And the way the economy is going, some homes may be staying on the market throughout many seasons. So, pay attention to your exterior home presentation and photos.
You know that in-between winter and spring season when the snow is gone, but the grass and trees have not greened-up yet? Stage the exterior with some greenery. Place a topiary next to the front door, or a flower pot with forcing daffodils (I learned about these a couple years ago) or a beautiful, festive wreath on the door. A fresh breath of color is usually helpful during these times of the year.
Fall to winter can be the same way. The leaves are all down and the perennials are brown and soggy. Again, think creatively - mums are great, thank goodness for these incredibly hardy, colorful plants. Just two flower pots can change the entrance to a home. Evergreen branches are also a nice touch and can be used in different ways, for example, tying a bunch together with a colorful ribbon and hanging it on or next to the front door, or lying on a bench.
Another time that can cause a bit of a problem is after summer drought season when everything is dry, yellowed-out, and just plain. If you list a home during this time, and the homeowner did not maintain the landscaping, ie, watering, sprinkling, then suggest a soaker hose for the front bushes and perennials and perhaps flower pots made up of plants that can take hot, dry days. We have deer in our neighborhood and my wife only plants deer-resistant landscaping and so far so good, so I highly recommend looking into types of flowers based on the environment.
Just a few ideas to help you start thinking creatively as the months charge on. Here in Cleveland, we are still in winter, although we are now having a serious meltdown which reminds me of the in-between winter and spring. A little too soon, though, as I know the snowflakes will be flying again.
Content and photo copyrighted by Chris Olsen and protected by CopyScape.
Date: 2009-03-23 20:11:01