When buyers are looking to potentially buy a home, they’re not just looking at the home itself, but the neighborhood and its surrounding properties. That means that if your neighbor’s home seems unappealing, it may deter buyers from making an offer on your home.
Curb appeal doesn’t just apply to the house that’s on the market. It’s important to get your neighbors on board with having their homes look neat and aesthetic as well. Of course, this can be touchy- so here are some tips!
Cultivate friendships
Invest in friendships with your neighbors, even when you’re not attempting to sell your home. An amicable foundation is invaluable, because you never know when you’ll need to turn to them. But especially when your house is on the market, you want your neighbors on your side and helping you out.
It’s also possible that your neighbors will play directly into your sale should specific issues arise. This could mean necessary repairs in a mutual fence, problems with retaining walls or easements, or boundary questions. It’s best to have a good relationship with your neighbor when this happens so everything can be resolved smoothly.
Give them updates
If you’re thinking about selling, update your neighbors as far in advance as you can. They will certainly appreciate the heads-up. This will also give them time to assist you in any way you need. If you ask them as you are putting your home on the market, they may be too crunched for time to be of any help.
Be the bank
The most awkward situation you could encounter with neighbors during is a sale is if you want them to do external home improvements to make their property- and yours- more attractive. To reduce discomfort, offer to pay for the improvements yourself. Requesting them to do some painting or landscaping within a timeframe that fits your schedule can be quite touchy.
While some may be very willing to make the changes on your dime, others may still be reticent. It’s important not to push too hard.
Optimally, you will not need to ask your neighbors to do these things at all. But if you do, remember to proceed carefully.
Source: Zillow