How can Markham sellers improve curb appeal before listing?Focus on what buyers see in the first ten seconds: a clean, well-lit entrance, a fresh or freshly cleaned front door, tidy gardens, a clear driveway and walkway, and easy-to-read house numbers. Most of these cost little and can be done in a weekend. In the fall and winter, lighting and clear, safe walkways matter even more, because many buyers arrive after dark.
Buyers often decide how they feel about a home before they reach the front door. The listing’s first photo is usually the front of the house, and it shapes who books a showing.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, walks the front of every listing with sellers to find small, inexpensive changes with the most impact.
The ten-second checklist
| Area | Small change |
|---|---|
| Front door | Clean or repaint, polish or replace the hardware |
| Lighting | Working fixtures, warm bulbs, clean covers |
| House numbers | Visible from the street |
| Gardens | Edged beds, fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs |
| Driveway and walkway | Swept, weeded, cracks filled where needed |
| Garage door | Clean, with working openers |
By season in Markham
- Spring and summer: green lawn, planters by the door, trimmed hedges.
- Fall: clear the leaves often, keep gutters clean, add a seasonal planter.
- Winter: clear and salt walkways, keep lights on a timer, and keep snow off the steps.
What to skip
Large projects such as new windows, new roofing or a full landscape redesign rarely pay back before a sale, unless something is broken. Fix what looks neglected first. Bins, toys, hoses and extra vehicles in the driveway should be put away for photos and showings.
Getting ready to list?
Michael John Lau can walk the front of your home with you and suggest the changes worth making.
Request a home evaluationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Photos and first impressions
The front photo is often taken on a single day, so time the exterior work before photography. A clean, bright exterior photo helps the listing stand out online and sets the tone for the visit.
Small budget, clear plan
Make a short list, price each item and start with the cheapest changes that make the biggest difference. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information to make the right choices before you list.
First impressions start at the curb. A weekend of work can change how buyers feel. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What adds the most curb appeal for the least money?
A clean or freshly painted front door, good lighting, tidy gardens and visible house numbers.
Should I repaint the exterior before selling?
Usually only if it looks worn. Focus on the door and trim first.
How do I improve curb appeal in winter?
Clear and salt walkways, keep lighting on and keep steps free of snow.
Does landscaping help a home sell?
Neat, simple landscaping helps. Large redesigns rarely pay back before a sale.
When should exterior work be done?
Before listing photos are taken.
Should I remove cars from the driveway for photos?
Yes, and put away bins, hoses and toys.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Curb appeal points are general guidance. Costs vary by home and contractor. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
