Now that spring has sprung, home buyers will be less forgiving when it comes to the exterior appearance of your home for sale. We’ve put together some simple things that homeowners can do to keep prospective buyers from just passing by.

Look with a critical eye

Homeowners should start by looking at their property with fresh eyes. While you may have grown to love some of the “character” that your home has, it may leave a weak impression on prospective buyers. Looking at your home with an unbiased critical eye can be a good way to make sure you are exposing all of the issues that need to be addressed.

Tidy the yard

A complete landscaping makeover may not be necessary. Some simple things that can go a long way are fresh mulch in the flower beds and edging around the driveway and sidewalks.

You may want to walk around the house every so often to make sure there isn’t any debris or trash around the sides and back of the house as well. Near the AC unit, and behind bushes and shrubbery, are common places where trash, leaves, and debris may build up.

Note that it’s also a good idea to spray for wasps and put out ant poisoning to keep those insects at bay. You don’t want them cutting a prospective buyers visit short.

Keep it clean

Other inexpensive efforts that make a big impact are cleaning the windows and pressure washing the house and driveway. Mold and grime that can easily be washed away will otherwise make the house feel older and less inviting.

Make minor repairs

The devil is in the details, and having a collection of little broken things can overwhelm prospective buyers. Even minor repairs may put buyers on the defensive as they look through house giving them the impression that it’s “a fixer upper.”

Take the time to fix gutters that are broken or full of debris and plant growth. Replace your house numbers if those are broken or missing. And don’t forget to fix the doorbell.  A lot of visitors will press it, and having it broken can start the buyer on a hunt for what else might be broken.