Improving your home's drive up appeal is always a good idea. But when you're selling your home, it's a must. You never get a second chance to make a first impression so make it the best one possible.

Start by conducting your own personal inspection and inventory of your home's exterior. Even if you've only lived there a short while, there may be maintenance issues you've ignored. And whether consciously or unconsciously you may be avoiding any flaws for which you'd have to cough up a lot of cash to repair. Summer is an excellent time to get started. Here are the major areas you'll need to take a look at:

Paint: Chipping or peeling paint is a definite detractor from your home's appearance. Even an inexpensive paint job will enhance your home's appearance significantly. This includes the front door, fence, shutters and any other surfaces in full view.

Landscaping: Mow and edge your lawn and trim the bushes. You'd be amazed at how a little overgrown grass or some weeds will destroy the look of your home. If you have shrubs and bushes out front, make sure they remain clipped and neat in appearance. Remove old pots of wilted flowers and keep the front porch as clear of excess clutter as possible. Keep your flower beds well-watered and remove any overgrowth. Roll up your garden hose and place it out of sight along with your garden tools.

Sidewalks/driveway: Pull stray weeds and keep the lawn edged along these areas. Put away toys and tools every evening. They clutter up your home's exterior and they invite would be thieves.

Gutters/downspouts: If they're damaged or loose, repair them. Enough said!

Sagging fences/loose bricks/damaged siding: Call a professional. A fence that looks as if the next strong breeze will cause a collapse is a serious detractor from the perceived value of your home. And loose bricks or damaged siding, often a side effect of excessive hot and cold weather conditions, must be repaired.

Cracked/uneven foundation: If evidence of damage to your home's foundation is present, have it professionally repaired. If the cause is water, take steps to clear the problem. It may be as easy as making sure gutters and downspouts route water away from the house.

Upgrade your outdoor lighting. Warm lighting around your home's exterior will create an inviting appearance and it's a great safety upgrade. If you've ever noticed how even modest homes can suddenly appear cozy with the proper lighting, take that lesson to heart with your own home.

Finishing touches: Purchase a brand-new doormat, place it in front of the entrance to your home and add a pot of brightly colored flowers next to the front door. You're saying "Welcome. Come on in". Consider this your exterior opportunity.

Source PropertySource