Exterior Painting Benefits
For those who are trying to sell their home in today’s real estate market it is important to be as competitive as possible. A low appraisal can mean not making a large enough profit to substantiate the sell. It could also mean a huge loss; or not being able to refinance at a lower interest rate. An accurate property appraisal is needed to ensure both seller and buyer can achieve the best deal possible. If your area has experienced several foreclosures it can affect the value a property appraiser feels is reasonable for the area. There are several ways to increase the curb appeal of the home so that buyers are more likely to make the purchase.
If the outside portions of the home show lots of weathering or plain old wear and tear it could be time for an exterior painting project. Curb appeal does not always guarantee a higher property appraisal; but peeling paint or trim in need of paint or repairs can certainly be something which is a negative influence on the property appraiser.
What to Paint
The exterior of the home is the first thing an appraiser such as Abbe Edelman will see when the he approaches the property. The exterior should be painted every few years if general maintenance and upkeep are maintained. Most of the time, it is a very good idea to do a nice exterior painting job on the home to make it look its best before putting it on the market. This task should also be completed before the property appraisal is scheduled. Any exterior portions of the home that have been painted before should receive a fresh coat of paint whether or not the color scheme is being changed. Window or door trim should be covered with a fresh coat of paint. This will spruce them up; but it will also help protect against weathering. Any out buildings, fences or other structures that go with the property should also be painted in order to maintain uniformity.
How to Paint
Most real estate experts suggest that the main portions of the home’s exterior be painted in neutral colors. This is the most likely choice for putting a home on the market since it will appeal to buyers more widely. Painting in more vibrant colors could cause some potential buyers to dislike the appearance of the home and end up hampering the sale. Paint the main portions of the home in colors such as sand, tan, cream or white. Trim should be a safe color such as black, brown, dark blue or green.
To paint the exterior of the home it is important to scrape off any peeling paint before beginning. Then the homeowner will need to make any needed repairs. Window trim that shows signs of water damage or rotting should be repaired; and any damaged wood on the outside of the home should be repaired as well. This is a good time to consider replacement windows. Modern windows are energy efficient and can increase the appraised value of the home.
Why to Paint
The overall appearance of the home can end up affecting the property appraisal, especially if the exterior painted portions show signs of wearing. If it has been several years since the home was last painted, it should be painted before a property appraisal is scheduled. Exterior paint that is chipped or peeling will have an influence on the overall condition of the home. Painting the outside of the residence will make the home more appealing. Even though the exterior paint does not weigh in too much on the actual amount of the property appraisal, it can have an impact on how the appraiser perceives the condition of the home.
