Spring is the time of year when homeowners think about putting their homes on the market. Aside from the usual advice of decluttering and cleaning up the inside of your home, it's important to remember that the exterior of your home is the first impression buyers get. Now that the snow has melted, it is important not to overlook the role of curb appeal.

You may have an immaculate and beautiful home, but before buyers see the inside treasures, they see the exterior and landscape. A home's exterior is sometimes referred to as the "red carpet" of the home. The items that stand out are the landscaping, porch, front door and windows. This is often overlooked by sellers, but a simple thing to do yourself or to inexpensively hire out.

Now is the time to remove dead plants, shrubs, leaves, weeds, pinecones and pine needles from your lawn, driveway and walkways. Power washing or hosing down your porch, exterior walls and windows, under eaves to remove cobwebs, and patio furniture and ornaments will make things sparkling clean. Don't forget to do the windows. Cleaning up the front door and garage door and repainting these doors is also important. If repainting is needed, consider adding a splash of color.

Just like getting a car detailed before putting it up for sale, detailing a home's first impressions will make buyers want to come in and see the home rather than passing it up for another.

LOW

1655 N.E. Diablo Way, Bend, OR 97702

3 beds, 2 baths, 1216 square feet, .18 acre lot

Built in 1978

$239,000

Listed by Gould & Associates Realty

MID

60897 S.E. Sweet Pea Dr., Bend, OR 97702

3 beds, 2.5 baths, 1,743 square feet, .11 acre lot

Built in 2017

$359,416

Listed by New Home Star Oregon, LLC

HIGH

2615 N.W. Champion Circle, Bend, OR 97703

3 beds, 3.5 baths, 3,522 square feet, .59 acre lot

Built in 2003

$940,000

Listed by Premiere Property Group, LLC

Photos and listing info from Central Oregon Multiple Listing Service