Keep your lawn mowed and your hedges trimmed. Sweep sand into concrete cracks and chips, and roll on a coat of sealer if you have an asphalt driveway. Hose down patios, house walls and other outdoor surfaces. Repair any broken windows . Clean up any yard debris.
Some repairs justify the cost.
Painting a home exterior to increase its curb appeal often reaps big rewards. According to the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers, a new paint job returns a 60 percent profit above the cost of having it done professionally, and up to 100 percent if you do the work yourself. Unlike major remodeling work inside a home to attract buyers, minor redecorating is recommended. This doesn't mean major improvements count for nothing. If you have done substantial work on your home recently, it may be just what you need to clinch a sale.