With Spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, residents of the Hamptons are getting their gardens growing and sprucing up their curb appeal. The spring buying and selling season is well underway and demand continues to grow. We’ve asked Hamptons agents, James MacMillan and Michael Petersohn, to weigh in with their top tips and tricks to help your home stand out.
Like many instances in life, first impressions count and can play an integral part in decision-making. An unruly lawn or scraggly plants could deter buyers. According to MacMillan, a flash test is a highly useful tool for evaluating your property's first impression. Stand outside your home or pass by and take a quick 2-second look. What stands out? Do you need to weed the walkway or trim back any scraggly growth? Are there any crooked elements that need straightening or asymmetrical features that need balancing? Paying attention to these small details can have a big impact on how potential buyers perceive your property.
"In many cases, less is more. Instead of dotting your property with tiny shrubs and covering it with excess mulch, consider purchasing a striking specimen tree or large shrub to anchor the front, adding a clean path and lawn if appropriate. For a more natural feel, use indigenous plantings and beach grass to soften the home. This will look good most of the year and the low maintenance is appreciated." - James MacMillan
In addition to landscaping, there are other things you can do to improve your home's curb appeal. Petersohn recommends starting by reviewing any "hardscaping" that may need attention. This could include gutters that need cleaning, paint that's chipping, or pavers that need resetting, sealing, or painting. Clean up any fallen branches and remove any leaves that have accumulated.
"Regular soil testing is another worthwhile investment that can help ensure your landscaping is thriving. Composting your garden can also help promote healthy growth while benefiting the plant. Be sure to prune any broken branches and trim back flowering shrubs like hydrangeas and butterfly bushes in the spring, while early flowering shrubs like azaleas and lilacs should be pruned later." - Michael Petersohn
If you're working with a limited budget, focus on the entryway. This is where you can make a statement without spending a lot of money. Try purchasing two large planters that tie in with the color of your home and fill them with full, large boxwood or shaped evergreen shrubs that are in proportion with the entryway. Don't forget to add a new natural doormat for an added touch of elegance.
Finally, don't forget to get dirty! Gardening can be a rewarding and therapeutic activity that can also help you create a beautiful and inviting outdoor space. Whether you're planting new flowers or moving evergreens, take the time to enjoy the process and make your home's curb appeal a true reflection of your personality and style. With these tips from real estate experts James MacMillan and Mike Petersohn, you can create a welcoming and attractive outdoor space that will leave a lasting impression on your neighbors or potential buyers.
