In a real estate market where first impressions can make or break a sale, curb appeal matters more than ever. While sellers often focus on interior staging, it’s easy to overlook key exterior features that might be quietly driving down your home’s value.
1. Outdated or Damaged Roofing
Shingles that are curling, cracked, or discolored instantly raise red flags. Buyers see a roof in disrepair as a major expense—and rightly so. Even a few visible issues can lead to renegotiation or lost offers.
2. Neglected Landscaping
Overgrown shrubs, patchy lawns, or dead plants suggest deferred maintenance. A tidy, low-maintenance yard is increasingly attractive to today’s buyers who value sustainability and ease of upkeep.
3. Poor Exterior Lighting
Dated fixtures or inadequate lighting can make even a beautiful home look uninviting. Updating with energy-efficient LEDs or solar-powered lighting is a quick, modern fix.
4. Damaged Driveways or Walkways
Cracked concrete and uneven pavers not only look bad—they pose safety risks. Resurfacing or repairing these areas can be a small investment with a high return.
5. Old Windows and Shutters
Warped or peeling shutters, fogged window panes, and inefficient single-pane windows suggest higher energy costs—and maintenance headaches.
6. Unattractive Paint or Siding
Faded or outdated color schemes (think salmon pink or mustard yellow) can alienate buyers before they step inside. Fresh paint in neutral tones or upgraded siding increases perceived value.
7. Out-of-Place Additions
That koi pond or oversized sculpture might be your pride and joy—but if it doesn’t blend with the home’s architecture or regional style, it may turn buyers away.
Bottom Line: A home’s exterior can quietly undermine its value. Fixing these issues helps sellers stand out in a competitive market—especially here in Corvallis, where buyer expectations continue to rise.