Working on the appearance of a home can be time-consuming, but industry experts say it is well worth the investment. According to a report in The Washington Post, homeowners in Illinois and across the country can expect a 150 percent return on investment for landscaping projects alone.

Where and how homeowners spend their money can affect how quickly the house moves, as any Oak Lawn property lawyer would know. Sellers should invest in making these three changes to boost their curb appeal:

Landscaping

The key to effective landscaping, according to the Appraisal Institute, is to make sure the home seems welcoming. For some people, this will simply mean mowing and pulling weeds before showing the house. Others may choose to make sizeable investments regarding the following:

• Planting colorful flowers to create a cheerful environment
• Installing hardscaping such as patios, walkways and stonework to demonstrate additional and attractive living space
• Mulching flower beds to provide a clean look to the home’s exterior

As an Oak Lawn property lawyer may have seen, spending too much money on landscaping could be perceived as a negative as some buyers could worry about the upkeep of the property. Homeowners who keep the yard neat and have flowering plants by the front door have done the minimum to welcome potential buyers.

The Front Door

Especially for homeowners who are on a budget, redoing the front door can be an effective task. According to HGTV, you can boost curb appeal through simply applying a fresh coat of paint that matches the house’s style but still creates a contrast. Sellers can also dress up the front door with an attractive wreath and new home numbers.

A Good Cleaning

Power washing a home is a budget-friendly way to make the outside appear clean. Homeowners should make sure the entire exterior of the home, such as siding and trim, is free of dirt and mildew. Further, a power washer can be used to clear sidewalks, driveways and other paths of dirt and debris. Sellers can do this themselves but should beware that the machines can be incredibly powerful and even damage a home when not used correctly. It could be in a homeowner’s best interest to hire a professional to get the job done.

A good rule of thumb is for sellers to stand on the street and view their homes for any signs of wear or damage. Making those fixes and paying attention to the above tips can improve curb appeal and attract buyers. Anyone who has questions about the selling process should consult with an Oak Lawn property lawyer.