Is There Such A Thing As Too Much Curb Appeal?

Question

Recently I toured a home that I was listing. Upon arrival I noticed the curb appeal and thought it was overdone (of course, I initially didn't say anything to the owner). I know curb appeal is important, but is it possible to overdo it OR even have no curb appeal at all? The sellers had put so much pots, plants, planters and shrubs out that I thought there were too many plants/planters that would require a new owner to upkeep.

After a few potential buyer tours/showings, the owner heard all the comments (via the security cameras) about how there was a "lot going on with the plants and stuff out front". She asked my opinion and I suggested removing a few items from the front - which she appreciated. The next tour was much more favorable.

My suggestion on CURB APPEAL - keep curb appeal reasonable for greatest success.

What are your thoughts on CUBR APPEAL -- the more the better??

Matt Devincenzo · Answer

I think you're confusing the quantity of items with curb appeal. The term curb appeal is simply referring to the home's exterior being appealing, which doesn't have anything to do with plants or pots or items directly. In some homes planting the front or placing pots could increase the curb appeal, in others it could be paint or furniture etc. It would be like if someone prepared to sell by painting to create fresh visual interest, but chose fuscia and lime green...those colors would certainly catch the eye but I'd never claim that they overdid the curb appeal by painting with too much visual interest. I'd say they chose colors that don't create any curb appeal at all...

In this case the front sounds like it was cluttered, so the way to increase curb appeal was literally to de-clutter.

In this case the front sounds like it was cluttered, so the way to increase curb appeal was literally to de-clutter.

Caleb Brown · Answer

I think keeping it simple but nice is best. You don't want to distract the buyers from the house with too many items or stuff. The exterior sets the tone for the house and is your first impression. If it is cluttered buyers will have a harder time visioning themselves living there. Exterior having new paint is always a bonus(as long as it looks good). Also have some landscaping, doesn't need to be fancy but give the impression the home is welcoming. The next buyer can make it their own.

Abel Curiel · Answer

Hello @Lorraine Hadden,

Agreed with @Matt Devincenzo

When it comes to curb appeal for the purpose of selling a property, less is more. A clean, neutral-looking curb gives prospective homebuyers a chance to visualize their own additions/upgrades. Then again, curb appeal doesn't matter as much in the inner-city parts of my market - more so in the suburbs.Lastly, if a property is newly built/renovated, 'neutral' may not be the best route. Curb appeal for higher-end properties will be much more important, especially when it comes to marketing - most ads and main listing photos feature the front of the property.In this case, I would consult with a professional - i.e. landscape designer or stager.

Victor Patel · Answer

Curb appeal is certainly important.  What appears to be great "curb appeal" to one person might be overwhelming to another.  It's all in the eye of the beholder.  The new buyer could certainly scale back on the "curb appeal".  I don't think that would be a deal breaker.   Just my 2 cents.

Is There Such A Thing As Too Much Curb Appeal?

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