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www.oakvillebeaver.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Tuesday, December 22, 2009 · 18 Five ways to create curb appeal BILL SCHIAVONE & STEVE DIAMOND Real Estate Talk A sale can be made or lost as a direct result of your home's curb appeal. When it comes to selling your home, the first impression is probably the most important impression. If the outside of the property doesn't create interest or appear well-maintained, a buyer may choose to not even come inside the home. Here are five ways to create curb appeal. Paint and polish. A fresh coat of paint breathes new life into a tiredlooking home. If your home looks dull or suffers from peeling, cracked or chipped surfaces, a paint job is a great investment. Polish the doorknocker and mail slot on the front door, as well as any light fixtures by the entry. Re-condition your deck. Manicure the grounds. Mow and edge the grass, and trim the trees and bushes. Also, clear away dead leaves and flowers, and mulch and weed the beds. Check to see that tree branches are not touching the home's roof or outer walls. Add some color to your landscape by planting annuals and placing planters of flowers in strategic spots. Make needed repairs. See if anything is unhinged, loose or just an eyesore. Fix everything including broken fencing, windows and screens. Make sure winter's cold weather didn't leave any gutters sagging or loose. Replace any missing shingles from the roof. Try the doorbell. Check stairs and railings. Test doors for squeaks and rusted hinges. Don't forget to take a critical look at the property at night. Unclutter. Tidy up the deck, patio and back yard. Rearrange the outdoor furniture to look inviting. Put away gardening tools and toys. Clean up the barbecue area. Eliminate any "evidence" of pets, and restrict them to the back yard when showing the home. Clean. Clean the windows, inside and out, wash down the walks and driveway, and hose down the siding. Clean outdoor furniture and cushions. Check for oil spots on cement surfaces, especially the garage floor. The old saying about making a good first impression couldn't be truer than when you are selling your home. Even the smallest enhancements can make a big difference in creating love at first sight for buyers. Bill Schiavone and Steve Diamond can be reached at 905.338.6550. Prudential Town Centre Realty Inc., Brokerage is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. EX C S LU IV E EX C S LU IV E OLD OAKVILLE CHARMER! Gorgeous 4 bedroom, 2.5 baths family home Located in desirable Old Oakville with stunning backyard oasis with outdoor kitchen, pool, hot tub and cabana. Must be seen to be truly appreciated.. $1,790,000 123 SELGROVE CRESCENT Custom Built Executive Home in desirable South West Oakville steps to Coronation Park & lake. Gourmet kitchen, professionally finished lower Level with gas fireplace. Curb appeal 10+ $1,599,900 JOSHUA CREEK Absolute Show Piece by Sundial Homes. Ideal Joshua Creek location. Over 150k in upgrades & a further 50k in landscaping. Premium 59ft x 127ft lot backing lush ravine. Stunning gourmet kitchen. Wishing You a 278 RIVER OAKS BLVD EAST Upscale custom built home in distinctive pocket of family friendly River Oaks. Approximately 3,200sq.ft on premium 59ft x 125ft south exposed lot. Dark cherry stained hardwoods, open concept layout, generous room sizes. Gourmet style kitchen with triple door walk-out to two tiered deck. Must be seen to be truly appreciated. $699,900 1298 KELLY ROAD Raised bungalow in great neighbourhood! Huge fenced lot, strip hardwood flooring, stainless steel appliances, finished basement. Must be seen to be truly appreciated. $419,000 and a Wonderful New Year! FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS "Thanks again Stacy!" S D OL S D OL 5-2410 WOODWARD AVENUE Upscale 3 bedroom townhome, walking distance to GO transit, amenities & Lake Ontario. Ideal for first time buyers or empty nesters. Also available for rent. $369,000 4687 KURTZ ROAD Brand new 3 bdrm semi detached located in Alton Community. Open concept great room, gourmet style kitchen & large master retreat. Curb appeal 10+ $362,900 116 MAPLE GROVE Completely renewed Williamsburg style home located in desirable South East Oakville, walking distance to lake. Stunning magazine level 260ft western exposed park like lot. $1,999,000 Marketing was the key! Also having Stacy Peereboom as our representative helped the final sale of our home. Thanks again Stacy! Roy Yates Dan Cooper Broker Office: 905.338.3737 Direct: 905.849.3303