When you decide to sell your home, there are a number of things you should consider regarding maintenance, both inside and out. Of course, you will have all of the systems in working order, and you may even decide to paint the walls or replace the carpet. But don’t forget about the exterior of your home. It is the first that people see when they are looking for a new home. What do they see when they look at your house?
If your home has a fence around the property, you might wonder what you need to do in order to prepare it to be listed for sale. Or, you might wonder if you should install a new fence. Here are five frequently asked questions about fences and the answers you need to help you get your home ready to sell.
Should I fix the areas of the fence that need to be repaired?
The answer depends on the condition of the fence. If there are places that are broken and could be considered dangerous or harmful to people or pets, you should definitely repair those areas. Contact two or three contractors and get estimates that you can compare and evaluate, then go ahead and get the work done before you list the house for sale. If the damage is not extensive and/or is not terribly noticeable, you can either fix it yourself or consider leaving it as it is.
Should I remove the fence? It is in poor condition.
A fence that is in bad shape can turn off prospective buyers. They will have a negative impression before they even enter the home. If you can’t remove the fence yourself, have a professional contractor take it down and haul it away. If the new buyer wants a fence, they can install one when they move in.
What are the benefits of having a fence around my yard?
Fences help give a sense of privacy, plus, they provide some measure of protection, keeping children and pets safe in the yard. Some buyers look specifically for homes with fenced in yards because they have children or pets. In addition, a well-maintained fence is a beautiful complement to the home and gives a good return on your investment.
What kind of fence should I install?
When choosing the material for your fence, look at all of the options. Wood and vinyl fences offer privacy and are affordable. Iron fencing can be quite decorative. You can go as elaborate as you like. Another option is a stone wall which can make a dramatic design statement. A chain link fence will keep pets in but it does not offer privacy and is not very attractive, so if you are going to install a fence before you sell your home, you should choose one of the other materials.
What if none of my neighbors have fences?
To quote a line from a Robert Frost poem, “Good fences make good neighbors.” However, if you live in an area with a homeowner’s association, check with that group first to find out if they have rules for fences. If fences are permitted, you want one that will add to your home’s curb appeal but will also blend in and suit the surroundings. And finally, before you start installing a fence, talk to your neighbors. Let them know what you have in mind. They may like your idea so much that they may want to install a fence on their property, too.
Hercules Fence Can Help
When you are ready for a residential or commercial fence that will meet the security and aesthetic needs of your family or business, trust the experts at Hercules Fence. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Fence online or give us a call at 800-395-9597. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest.