Why does kerb appeal matter when selling your home?
Buyers often decide how they feel about a home before they even step inside. The exterior sets the tone. If it looks cared for, buyers are more likely to book a viewing. Kerb appeal matters because it shapes those early reactions that influence the rest of the process.
A neat exterior suggests good maintenance, pride in ownership and attention to detail. These early signals, often processed subconsciously, have a lasting effect on how someone perceives the whole property. It’s the first impressions property owners can control and it matters.
What We Have Covered In This Article?
- Your home’s first impression: more powerful than you think
- What counts as kerb appeal? A seller’s guide
- How do buyers judge your home before stepping inside?
- Can kerb appeal really boost your home’s value?
- How does kerb appeal compare to other home upgrades?
- What are the easiest kerb appeal upgrades that actually work?
- When is it worth spending more and when should you stop?
- What kerb appeal mistakes should sellers avoid?
- Why do photos matter so much for kerb appeal?
- Quick kerb appeal checklist for home sellers
- Final thoughts: small changes, big results
Your home’s first impression: more powerful than you think
First impressions happen fast. Research shows people form judgements in just a few seconds. If your home’s outside looks untidy or poorly maintained, it can create a negative feeling that lingers.
Think about passing a shop with cracked windows and faded signs. It’s not appealing, even if the inside is fine. Homes work the same way. A tidy exterior gives buyers confidence and sets a positive tone.
The “halo effect” plays a role here too. When the outside looks great, people are more likely to believe the rest of the house is in good condition as well.
Many buyers have ruled out properties before even stepping through the door. These snap decisions are emotional, not superficial. Buyers want to feel good before they even reach the hallway. A well managed walk up experience plays into that instinct.
What counts as kerb appeal? A seller’s guide
Kerb appeal includes everything visible from the street. These elements all contribute:
Paint or brickwork on the facade
Front door condition and colour
Roof edges, gutters and downpipes
Cleanliness of windows and frames
Driveways and footpaths, cracks, stains or weeds
Garden borders, hedges and lawn edges
Bin storage and placement
Lighting around the entrance
For flats, this might include communal areas, stairs or door buzzers. Houses have more private space to manage. Either way, a clean, cared for look gives buyers confidence.
Pro Tip: First impressions start online, so check your home’s street view and listing photos.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
Struggling with Kerb Appeal? Let Barrain Help You Shine
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How do buyers judge your home before stepping inside?
Photos are often the first thing buyers see. If the pictures show a messy path or weeds, that first impression may be hard to shift.
Street view adds another layer. Buyers check the area and surroundings online before viewing. If the exterior looks neglected, they may never enquire.
That’s why it helps to keep photos and reality in sync. A tidy exterior in both will attract and retain buyer interest.
Mentioning the home’s appearance on online property listings such as Rightmove or Zoopla is essential. These platforms often display a single thumbnail that must entice buyers within seconds. That single image carries the weight of your property’s digital first impression.
Can kerb appeal really boost your home’s value?
Yes. Winkworth and other estate agents suggest that strong kerb appeal can raise the value by up to ten percent.
Homes that look cared for attract more interest and usually sell faster. A well presented exterior gives buyers a good feeling before they’ve even seen inside. That emotional connection can directly increase home sale price.
Compared to major upgrades, exterior updates often cost less and offer higher returns. Painting the door or tidying the drive might cost little but deliver great results. These are cost effective home upgrades that influence buyer decisions.
How does kerb appeal compare to other home upgrades?
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What are the easiest kerb appeal upgrades that actually work?
You don’t need to spend thousands. Try these simple ideas:
Wash driveways, windows and paths (£)
Repaint or touch up the front door (££)
Add potted plants or flowers (£)
Cut back bushes and neaten lawn edges (£)
Fit tasteful lighting by the entrance (££)
Replace worn or faded house numbers (£)
Small changes often have the biggest effect. Walk past your home and see what stands out.
Seasonal kerb appeal tips
Spring: Refresh garden beds and repaint worn fences
Summer: Keep the grass trimmed and clean patio furniture
Autumn: Clear leaves and check lighting for shorter days
Winter: Use warm lighting at the door and remove moss from paths
When is it worth spending more and when should you stop?
Some jobs give good return, others don’t. Here’s a simple guide:
Worth spending on:
Fixing loose paving or broken steps
Repairing guttering or roofline
Professional repainting of exteriors
Not always worth it:
Replacing all windows unless they’re damaged
Adding lots of decorative features
Landscaping beyond what local homes offer
Match your updates to your market. Keep things simple, smart and effective.
Pro Tip: A fresh front door colour can boost click through rate and viewings fast.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
Want to Maximise Your Home’s Value?
Barrain Estate Agents know exactly what buyers look for — starting with the perfect first impression. Contact us for expert advice.
What kerb appeal mistakes should sellers avoid?
Here are common issues that can hurt buyer interest:
Bins left in sight
Inconsistent or faded paintwork
Overgrown plants
Mildew or moss buildup
Trying too hard with decor
Worst offenders that instantly turn buyers away
Bins overflowing near the door
Streaky or grimy windows
Peeling or patchy paint on the facade
These are buyer red flags. Avoiding them should be part of every seller’s house viewing preparation.
Why do photos matter so much for kerb appeal?
Your main listing photo is often the decider. It needs to stop the scroll.
Treat photo day like a viewing. Mow the lawn, put away bins and open any gates. Natural light and a clean entrance go a long way.
Consistency matters too. If your home looks lovely online but less so in person, buyers may walk away disappointed. This mismatch between photos and reality is a top property turn off.
Quick kerb appeal checklist for home sellers
Must do:
Clean windows and doors
Tidy garden and edges
Hide bins out of sight
Repair broken fences
Nice to have:
Repaint the front door
Add greenery or potted plants
Use a new doormat
Install subtle lighting
Avoid:
Clashing or bright colours
Too many ornaments
Over decorating
Stand outside and really look. Would you be impressed if you were arriving for the first time?
Final thoughts: small changes, big results
Buyers make fast decisions. A few smart tweaks outside your home can shape how they feel.
You don’t have to overhaul everything. Start small, tidy up and take care of the basics. For tailored advice, speak to your local estate agent.
