Let’s face it”first impressions are everything when it comes to real estate. The first thing potential buyers see when they pull up to a home is the exterior. Having an inviting exterior will help get any potential buyers in the door to see the rest. A few low-cost curb-appeal improvements that can be done for around 500 or less are: Keeping the lawn mowed and maintained, washing exterior windows, adding new hardware and/or painting the front door, power-washing to remove stuck on dirt, and buying a welcome mat for the front steps. Once the minor exterior improvements are complete, it’s time to move inside.

The biggest piece of advice is to de-clutter, de-clutter, de-clutter! Removing a couple pieces of furniture from each room will make each room appear larger, which is an excellent selling feature of any home. Removing items from kitchen countertops is also important, because potential buyers will be looking at the counter space. Hiding the counter space with clutter can deter potential buyers. It is also very important to thoroughly clean the home before putting it on the market and doing any last minute touch-up cleaning before showings.

If you’re looking to complete some minor interior improvements on a budget, consider some of these options. If the kitchen is a little outdated, try re-grouting if new countertops are not an option. If the cabinets in the kitchen are outdated, try painting and adding new hardware to add a new, fresh look. For the remainder of the home, a little paint goes a long way. Painting rooms a neutral shade is often the best bet. Choosing too bright or too dark of colors suited to your taste may not match the taste of the prospective buyers looking at your home. If you have wallpaper, consider removing it. Many prospective buyers look at wallpaper and only see it as a project they will have to worry about. Placing scented candles and fresh-cut flowers throughout the home will add the extra something special to make the home more inviting. Place fresh, clean towels in the bathroom and remove any clutter from the vanity.

With these minor improvements, you can make your home more appealing to the prospective buyers and can highlight the features of your home. Happy selling!