In a buyer’s market, curb appeal – yours AND the neighborhood’s – become even more important.
Fresh paint, a new front door and updating landscaping often are sure-fire ways to attract potential buyers in to your home. But in some cases, no matter how perfect your home looks, noting can draw their gaze past the tired-looking, buried in the weeds home next door.
According to a recent survey done by a national contractor website, more than 60% of the people responding said that they have or have had neighbors who make the street look bad by not taking care of the outside of their homes. Common problems were tall weeds/grass, a dying lawn, piled-up junk and peeling paint or visible exterior defects such as broken windows.
Neighborhood eyesores aren’t a new or uncommon problem, but curb appeal takes on greater significance in a buyer’s market. For buyers, eyesores may present one more negotiating advantage….remember, appraisals factor in the condition of nearby properties.
The National Association of Realtors says an eyesore can shave about 10% off the value of a nearby listing.
So….what can you do in this situation??
Approaching a neighbor can be uncomfortable to say the least.
Typically, there could be several reasons for the lack of upkeep: those people who are physically or financially unable to work on the home…or (especially in this day and age), those people who have time constraints….and lastly (and more problematic) those who purposely buck social norms. So, first, you need to know what you’re dealing with. Often times, explaining your situation to the neighbor and bringing your concerns to their attention may do the trick. Stress that keeping up the condition of the entire neighborhood helps the value of all properties.
Or, offer to help. Some local branches of the National Association of Realtors have created funds to help older or incapacitated homeowners keep up their exteriors. Getting the neighborhood to collectively rally may be perceived as great improvement projects, not just being picky. Absentee owners may require correspondence, so don’t wait until right before you put your home on the market.
If negotiation stalls, residents sometimes can lean on municipal laws, administered through the Building Department, Health Department or a similar agency. For example, some areas levy fines for keeping around piles of wood that attract animals.
So do what you can to help, but if you can’t change the eyesore next door…..just make sure that your home looks outstanding!!
Jeri Pischke
