Summer Kerb Appeal

18 July, 2025

Summer Kerb Appeal: Why First Impressions Could Make or Break Your Sale

In today’s buyer’s market, paying attention to the small details can make all the difference. When buyers have more choice and are taking their time, your property needs to stand out for all the right reasons. And it needs to do it quickly.

You have roughly 60 seconds to make a strong first impression when someone arrives for a viewing. That means the outside of your home is just as important as what’s inside.

Here’s how to boost your kerb appeal this summer and help your property attract more serious offers.

Keep the Front Clean and Tidy

Start with the basics. Make sure your bins are clean and free of maggots, especially during hot weather. Do not leave rubbish bags near the front of the house. It looks messy and gives the impression the property is not well cared for.

Clean the windows, sweep the path and remove any marks or dirt from driveways, paving and doors. A tidy entrance tells buyers they are likely to find a well-maintained home inside too.

Sort Out the Garden

A messy front garden puts people off straight away. Cut the grass, trim back bushes, get rid of weeds and make sure everything looks neat and fresh. If you have flowers or hanging baskets, take a few minutes to remove any dead ones. A tidy garden does not need to be fancy, it just needs to show that the property is looked after.

Get Rid of the Clutter

Toys, scooters, bikes and shoes might be part of daily life, but they should not be the first thing buyers see. Move them out of sight before each viewing. The same goes for empty pots, tools or random garden furniture. Clutter makes spaces feel small and uncared for.

When the entrance is clear and tidy, people feel more confident walking in. They expect the rest of the property to match that standard.

Fix Anything That Looks Off

If there are cracked steps, loose paving slabs or a stiff door lock, get them fixed. Buyers will notice if something is broken or badly maintained. It only takes a few small issues for someone to start thinking a property will be more hassle than it is worth.

Even things like a squeaky gate, a rusted latch or chipped paint can leave a bad impression. Buyers today are careful and value-conscious. Small repairs show you care and give them confidence about the rest of the home.

Freshen Up the Entrance

You do not need to spend loads. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, a new doormat or a couple of tidy potted plants by the entrance can help create a welcoming feel.

If the house number or name is missing or faded, replace it. These details might seem minor, but they help create a better overall impression and suggest the home has been well looked after.

Make Sure the Gate Works

A gate that swings open awkwardly or will not close properly is more than just annoying. It is the very first thing a buyer touches, and it should work. Fix or replace the hinges, adjust the latch and check the frame so that it opens and closes smoothly. This might seem like a small job, but it gives buyers the feeling that everything else in the home is solid and reliable too.

In a Buyer’s Market, Details Matter

Buyers have more time to decide, more power to negotiate and plenty of options. That means your home has to work harder to stand out. The right kerb appeal helps your property feel welcoming, well kept and worth a serious offer.

So before your next viewing, take a moment to stand outside and see what buyers will notice first. If anything looks tired, messy or broken, it is worth fixing.

Want help making the most of your property’s potential?

At Get An Offer, we’re here to help sellers like you get ahead. Our team offers honest advice, support with presentation and a no-fuss way to attract real buyers. If you are not sure where to start or want tips on boosting your chances of a strong offer, give us a call. We are always happy to help.