If you’re like most Torontonians, you’re probably pretty excited when summer rolls around. Warm weather and sunshine make this the ideal time of year to get out and enjoy nature. Of course, that’s not all—at least not from a real estate perspective. If you’re preparing to put your home on the market, doing so during the warmest season can provide some major advantages. One of the biggest is the opportunity to create irresistible curb appeal.

If you’re planning to sell your property this summer, here’s how to ensure that it makes a great first impression on buyers…

Think about colour

In the bright summer sun, faded and drab colours are bound to stand out. That’s why one of the best ways to instantly improve your curb appeal is by adding a new coat of paint. Freshen up your trim if need be, and consider repainting your front door in a bold hue. Light-yet-vibrant shades work particularly well in summer, from pale teal to pastel yellow. Of course, you don’t have to limit your use of eye-catching colours to paint. From flowers to key pieces of patio decor, a touch of lilac purple or tangerine orange can go a long way toward upping your home’s appeal.

Landscape carefully

In the warmer months, landscaping matters. A healthy, well-maintained yard isn’t just visually appealing—it also shows potential buyers that you take good care of your property. Unfortunately, summer heat can lead to a whole host of landscaping issues, from weeds to bare patches of grass. Your best bet is to learn a few lawn care basics, including how to feed and water your yard in current weather conditions. If you’re in need of some quick advice, head to your local gardening store. And whatever you do, don’t forget to keep your grass trimmed!

Use summer vegetation

Nothing says summer like greenery, and it’s not just your lawn that will have home buyers doing a double take. Trees, shrubs, and flowering plants can do a lot to liven up your outdoor space. Some varieties do particularly well in Toronto summers, and a bit of research can go a long way. Put simply: if you have any sparse or empty gardening beds or planters, now is the time to fill them in. Of course, not everyone has a green thumb. Just as a gardening store associate can provide lawn-care guidance, they can also offer all of the instructions you need to help your other plants to thrive.

Don’t forget the details

There’s no shortage of little things you can do to kick your curb appeal up a notch. Start with your light fixtures. If they’re looking dingy or outdated, it’s time for an upgrade. You’d be surprised by the number of sleek, modern (and affordable) options you’ll find in most department stores. Remember that although it stays bright out later during the summer, it may be convenient for some buyers to view your home after the sun has set. For this reason, you should consider illuminating your entranceway with bright LED bulbs. Other details to consider are your address numbers, your mailbox, and your welcome mat.

While potential buyers will thoroughly inspect your home’s interior, what’s on the outside counts too. With a few small, cost-effective improvements, you can help put home hunters in the right frame of mind as soon as they step onto your property.

Ready to put your home on the market? Reach out today to learn how we can help you with home preparations and the selling process!