No matter how much the Savannah real estate market heats up, Sellers need to continue to do everything they can to be competitive and get a Buyer’s attention. From the first conversation at the listing appointment, I’m often asked for tips on how to make a home attractive. The first approach is the “no cost/low cost” approach, starting with a little basic feng shui. Feng shui is a design philosophy that focuses on how to bring harmony and balance into a space. The term means "Wind and Water" in Chinese. The industry fell in love with the philosophy a few years ago, and even though the faddish romance seems to have fizzled a bit, the concepts make too much sense to ignore.
Today’s tip is all about the entrance to your home. Pay attention to the front door, which is considered the “mouth of chi” or the life force. The front door is actually one of the most powerful elements of the property. All good things enter there --- blessings, opportunities, and good fortune. It is also one of the critical elements of the Buyer’s first impression. I’ve never understood why Realtors often put lockboxes on side or back doors. Buyers need to feel how the energy enters the home. So, what do you do?
The Water element is associated with the entry into a space because of the flow of energy through the door. Black is a great color for an entryway because it evokes the Water element and creates energy flow, bringing positive energy into the home. Black (and dark blue) anchor the energy of reflection, concentration, and truth. Another good choice might be green, which anchors the energies of growth, healing, harmony and vitality. An interesting exercise is to sit with the Seller and define the “ideal Buyer” for the home and what that Buyer’s characteristics might be. Then, a door color specifically designed to appeal to that type of person could be discovered. A Seller can also replicate the color in the foyer. For example, if the home has a black door, it would be possible to accentuate the energy by using a black & white entry rug with a lively pattern.
In terms of décor, the best feng shui art for your front entry will be connected with Water. This gives a lot of flexibility since the Water element is represented by undulating, sinuous shapes, mirrors and glass, and (of course) some type of small water feature. Photos or paintings of water scenes or of objects associated with water (e.g., a painting of river rocks) are highly desirable. Abstract are that includes sinuous shapes are also good. A welcome rug/carpet should be a dark color and would be enhanced if it has winding shapes within in.
Of course, the basics must be addressed as well. The area around the door and entry has to be clean. No cobwebs, no clutter. Moreover, all exterior entry lighting should be straight and properly hung. If the Seller has a few bucks to spend, new outdoor porch & landscape lighting is always a good choice. Rounded shapes have better feng shui. Likewise, the foyer lighting is important.
People generally agree that first impressions typically do not change over time. So, if you are selling a home, it is critical that a Buyer connects with your home from the moment he/she approaches the front door. An exceptional entrance will set the tone for a great showing experience, and hopefully, a great offer!
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