There is a misconception among some in real estate that only the interior of the listing must be staged, that the “wow” factor should hit the moment you enter the space.

We disagree! The wow factor shouldn’t happen at the foyer, at the front door, or even at the parking spaces in front of the listing. The wow factor should hit the moment your listing’s property lines are crossed.

The Driveway or Sidewalk

Whether long or short, the driveway of your listing requires attention. If it’s a new or well-maintained driveway, having the landscaper simply clean it with a leaf blower might be enough. More often than not, however, driveways need to be pressure-washed or even resealed.

Weeds growing through cracks in the driveway or sidewalk should be removed. Cracks should be properly repaired. Crumbling edges should be addressed, and lastly, the grass should be curbed appropriately and not allowed to overtake the driveway or sidewalk.

The Landscaping

Flowers, trees, shrubs, and other plants should be maintained according to the season. Dead foliage should be removed. Overgrown areas should be reduced, trimmed, and manicured. Unless aesthetically charming and harmless to the listing, any vines growing up the sides of buildings should also be removed.

And it should go without saying, but the lawn should be mowed and trimmed no more than two days prior to MLS photos, open houses, or showings.

The Exterior

Aside from removing vines, your repair person should also address broken shutters, cracked siding, loose shingles, missing bricks, damaged fascia, missing or broken gutters, and the list continues. Often, the house and windows will need to be washed as well.

When we work with home sellers or listing agents, we walk around the property and the exterior of the listing with our clients and compile a full list of suggested improvements. It’s a great way to bring massive curb appeal to a washed-out listing in a week or less.

Listing a home for sale? Book a staging consultation and we can help you make it look fabulous starting at the curb.

For more staging tips, check out Staging Mistakes to Avoid.