With the warmer months fast approaching, and more buyers out and about inspecting properties, now is a great time to think about your next property move.

If the plan is to upgrade into a new home before Christmas, you’ll need to start thinking about the curb appeal of your current property to prospective buyers. Better still, making a few improvements to the exterior of your home won’t cost you an arm and a leg and could be just the tonic to set your property apart from the competition.

Step onto the street and take a curbside peek at how the exterior presents. Don’t forget a buyer’s first impression will count when it comes to selling a property.

First up, examine the front gate. Does it require a fresh coat of paint, or does a picket or paling need replacing? If it creaks, some good old WD-40 ($5 at Big W) or a similar household lubricant will probably fix the creak. If the hinges have rusted, a replacement could cost you less than $20 at your local hardware store.

A ragged garden won’t help your cause either. Remove any weeds from garden beds or pavements and make sure your edges are neat and tidy. If the garden has gotten out of hand, maybe invite some friends around for a working-B. For the cost of some sandwiches and a beverage of your choice, this could be a very inexpensive way to get the garden back to proper order. Also don’t forget to run the mower over the lawn.

If the cold weather has destroyed some plants, a quick trip to the local nursery can return some colour to the garden. Also, check out some gardening websites such as Gardenexpress.com.au for some flora deals.

Maintaining the plant motif, a blooming pot could touch a chord with buyers. If money is tight, maybe borrow a pot from a family member or friend to get you through the open home period.

Grubby windows are another turn-off for buyers. A glass spray will only cost a few dollars, while consumer advocate group, Choice has conducted a study of the best cleaning products.

While you’re on the windows, don’t forget to rub the front door over. Also, if you have a security door, check for squeaks. If there are some creaks, give the hinges some WD-40 action too. A fresh doormat is usually a good investment that sends a welcoming message to potential buyers. Expect to pay less than $30 for a regular coir and rubber doormat.

For more cost-effective hints for sprucing up the exterior of your property in preparation for a sale, contact your local Raine & Horne agent.