CityView Magazine

CityViewNC.com | 63 What the Neighbors Say Around town, we've got good neighbors with great advice. If you're thinking of selling, Tiffany Pennick of Coldwell Banker Advantage says that the home buying process really begins online and that making sure the picture your real estate agent uses to showcase your home is really the best it can be. "If it doesn't draw their attention, the potential buyer will click onto the next available property," she says. If potential buyers make it past the online search, chances are they are going to be driving by the property to check it out in-person at least once before scheduling an appointment. "A clean and well cared for exterior lets the home buyer know that you've taken care of the property. I would suggest inspecting the roof, siding, gutters and shut- ters and make any necessary repairs prior to putting your home on the market. If the items aren't addressed, this could ultimately lead to a low offer." Pennick says that maintained lawns oen lend to a great first impression, and she suggests keeping it easy. "Enlist the service of a lawn maintenance company to alleviate the stress of stay- ing on top of your home's curb appeal while it is on the market." Lenore Johnson, Broker Associate at Townsend Real Estate, says that curb ap- peal is "key" in marketing a home for sale. "If the home is inviting from the outside, it is very likely that it will be inviting on the inside, as well," Johnson mentioned. She suggests mowing and edging the lawn, putting down fresh pine straw or mulch and keeping the bushes trimmed. "e next step would be to add seasonal flowers," she said, "either planted or in pots, but they must be kept watered." Johnson also said that she personally loves to add a wreath or a seasonal banner on the front door, plus a bench with coordinating pillows. "I can almost guarantee that potential buyers will slow down and call their agent to see [that] home before it is already under contract." Appealing to Greater Nature As a little girl, Melissa McIntosh loved reading e Secret Garden. She relished the way each corner of the garden grew something unique. Growing up in the south, she was drawn to the magical courtyards of Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and New Orleans, Louisiana. Each one seemed full of their own secret mysteries. Aer McIntosh purchased two adja- cent buildings downtown Fayetteville to expand her company, Minc Interiors, she found herself designing a new sort of space—an exterior courtyard. Much like the English garden she read about as a child, the courtyard would have distinct areas that seemed to take their cues from the sun, the shade and the shape of each section. Luckily for us, her green thumb and eye for design provides plenty of easy-to-follow tips for homeowners looking to increase impact and downsize the upkeep. According to McIntosh, the key to great design is starting with something that in- spires you. "Outside is an extension of the interior," she said. "e yard should be treated as an- Melissa McIntosh STOP BY 426 Souter Place Fort Bragg, NC 28307 CALL (910) 495-0878 VISIT Bragg.CorviasMilitaryLiving.com Free Rent & Bedroom Upgrades for Select Home Types While Inventory Lasts LIVING ON POST MEANS: • Reduced Commute • Most Utilities, Lawn Care, Pools & Fitness Centers Included • #1 Ranked Customer Service & 24-Hour Maintenance • Department of Defense Schools, Parks & Playgrounds • ID Checks & Military Police for Security GET A GOOD DEAL More ON POST. Photography by Marcus Castro

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