PROPERTY NEWS - Kerb appeal is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of a property’s marketability. It is the first impression a buyer has of a home and it can set the tone for the entire viewing.
However, what works to enhance kerb appeal in one part of the country may not be as effective in another.
“Regional differences, especially between coastal and inland areas, play a crucial role in determining the best approach to enhancing a home's exterior,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of REMAX Southern Africa.
For example, in Gqeberha, kerb appeal is about more than pretty plants and painted walls. Carla Visagie, Sales Manager at REMAX Independent Properties, explains that it's about showing buyers that your home works with our coastal climate, not against it. “It’s about showing that your home is liveable, sheltered, and lifestyle-ready, even when the wind is howling.”
According to REMAX Independent Properties, these are the Gqeberha-specific upgrades that really count:
- Sheltered outdoor living spaces
- Indoor braai or entertainment room
- Wind-resilient, low-maintenance gardens
- Screening and privacy
- Neat paving and clean lines
In coastal regions, homes are often exposed to salt-laden air, higher humidity levels and strong winds. These elements can cause faster wear and tear on outdoor features such as woodwork, paint, and metal finishes.
Most buyers are discouraged by the prospect of maintenance, so ensuring the home’s exterior is well cared for can significantly increase its appeal and create a more positive first impression.
In the KZN North Coast, REMAX Dolphin Realtors notes that small upgrades translate into faster, higher-value sales. According to them, some of the top kerb appeal upgrades that deliver ROI include:
- Repainting boundary walls and the interior of the property
- Neat, low-maintenance landscaping or planter boxes
- Outdoor lighting and house numbers
- Cleaning roofs, driveways, and gutters
“These enhancements do not cost a lot but create emotional connection, which is a critical selling factor when viewing,” says Kim Peacock, Broker/Owner REMAX Dolphin Realtors.
In contrast, homes located inland, particularly in drier or more temperate climates, might be less affected by moisture-related damage but more exposed to dust and heat. Here, kerb appeal can be enhanced through well-maintained lawns and shaded outdoor areas. Paving instead of lawns may also be a practical and appealing option in water-scarce regions.
According to Nadia Aucamp, Broker/Owner of REMAX All Stars operating in the South of Johannesburg, simple, cost-effective upgrades can make a big difference in how a property is perceived—and priced.
“A neat, well-maintained garden, including mowed lawns, weed-free paving, and tidy flower beds, immediately improves kerb appeal.”
No matter the climate or region, creating a neat and tidy exterior appearance is key to achieving a successful home sale.
Barbara Larney, Broker/Owner of REMAX Wine and Whales operating in Hermanus and Paarl in the Western Cape, explains that even when financial stress forces a quick sale, keeping the home and garden clean, tidy and decluttered remains one of the most effective and affordable ways to boost kerb appeal.
“A well-presented property helps buyers see its full potential and imagine living there, which can lead to stronger interest and better offers, proving that simple care and presentation often translate into higher selling prices, even without major upgrades.”
At REMAX Southern Africa, we encourage homeowners to view kerb appeal not just as a cosmetic touch, but as a strategic investment.
Tailoring upgrades to suit local climates and buyer preferences can make a home more appealing to prospective buyers, which is especially crucial in competitive markets.
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