While Sellers work diligently on the inside of their home when placing it on the market, some tend to neglect the extremely important "First Impression" on the outside! Make sure the outside of your home says, "Hey... Look at me!" And extends an invitation to the inside!

Here are a few simple things you can do to take a competitive edge against other homes on the market:

• Prune dead leaves from trees and shrubs.
• Weed flower beds and trim shrubs.
• Paint (or touch up) your home's exterior, and repair screens and windows.
• Clean the windows until they sparkle in the sun!
• Unclutter the porch so there is plenty of walk-up space.
• Add colorful potted plants and accessorize with decorative outdoor tems such as a birdhouse or birdbath-- things that declare, "This is home!"
• Plant a fragrant herb near your front door.
• Keep sidewalks and driveways swept and clean.
• Make sure your lawn is neatly mowed and edged.
• Ensure that all outdoor lighting is in proper working order.

What some sellers may not realize is that many prospective buyers will drive up to a home and tell their Realtor to "keep going"... all because the home lacked drive up appeal! An unkept outside may give the impression that the inside is the same! Make sure the outside of your home invites prospective buyers into your home, anxious to see what awaits inside!