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Don’t underestimate the power of strong exterior appeal— a beautiful, well-maintained exterior can increase the value of your home by up to 7 percent, according to one real estate study from the University of Texas at Arlington. But researchers recommend going ahead and doubling that figure in a slow seller’s market.

A well-maintained exterior not only makes the property more welcoming, but also signals to buyers that the home has been well-maintained, says Cindy Morrisona real estate agent from Tulsa, Oklahoma.

“Curb appeal has always been one of the most important first impressions a home leaves on potential buyers: it’s ‘love at first sight’ moment,” she says.

Conversely, if your home lacks curb appeal, you risk deterring serious buyers, which can lead to poor offers and extend the time your home spends on the market. This ultimately gives buyers more negotiating power, explains Crystal Clarkea real estate agent in Montecito, California. Unfortunately, your neighbor’s poor curb appeal can also have a negative impact on the value of your property.

Ahead, real estate agents share the biggest curbside mistakes that could lower your property value and make it harder to sell your home.

1. Overgrown Landscaping

Poorly maintained lawns, overgrown with vegetation treesand unkempt gardens send a message of poor maintenance to buyers, Clarke says. She recommends getting your garden back into tip-top shape by removing everything dead plantsprune trees and refresh garden beds with colorful flowers or fresh mulch. Creating a manicured, lush outdoor environment is key to attracting discerning buyers, she says.

Additionally, if you have overgrown bushes hiding your home, it may be time to replace them with greenery that highlights the home rather than hiding it, says Cara Ameerreal estate agent at Coldwell Banker Realty.

2. Lack of landscaping

A bare yard with minimal greenery can make the property look stark and unattractive, especially when it comes to high-value homes where landscaping is seen as an extension of the home’s design, Clarke says.

Adding trees, shrubs or flower gardens can soften the appearance of the home and make it more welcoming.

You may also consider adding low maintenance installations to make the land feel manageable to potential buyers, says Bonnie Stein, an associate real estate broker in Westchester County, New York.

3. Peeling paint or discolored exterior

Peeling paint or a discolored exterior diminishes the home’s aesthetic and makes it appear unkempt, Clarke says. Painting the exterior of your home is an expensive undertaking, and if you go this route, it’s good to know what paint colors can help you sell your home for more money.

If you don’t want to make such a large investment (especially if you’re not sure the colors will resonate with buyers), Clarke recommends at least repainting the front door, shutters or siding. These small projects can greatly improve the curb appeal of the home and make it feel fresh.

4. Outdated address numbers or mailbox

The address number of your house is very important for exterior appeal because these are the numbers that potential buyers will focus on first when trying to find your home for an open house or showing. If the address numbers are outdated or chipped, replace them with new numbers that match your the architectural style of the house is a simple way to increase your curb appeal, says Ameer.

Likewise, if your mailbox is old, rusty or starting to deteriorate, you need to replace it, Ameer says. The owners have all kinds of stylish mailbox options to choose from to complement their home’s design, from modern designs that pair with planters to vintage envelope-shaped drop boxes.

5. Political posters

If you are selling a home during the election period, avoid any candidate banners or signs announcing your political affiliations. Larry DeVardoa sales associate at Coldwell Banker Realty in Hillsdale, New Jersey, says.

“In this climate, anything political stirs emotion and you can potentially offend 50% of your potential buyers,” he warns.

6. Cracked driveways

If you are about to list your home, it is a good idea to give your aisle And garage a good pressure wash, get rid of everything weeds that have grown into the cracks and try to get rid of any oil stains on the driveway.

“Old walkways and walkways with cracks, that are dirty and have not been pressure washed can also contribute to a negative impression,” says Ameer. “A buyer may be put off by the condition of the driveway and not want to go any further, even if the interior of the home is completely renovated.”

If the driveway is in poor condition, it may be time to completely replace it or offer credit to the buyer so they can choose what type of driveway material they want to install.

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