The curb appeal of your home can make or break its first impression on visitors. The facade is what people see when they drive by, walk up, or is the first picture they see online when home shopping. It is the only part of your home that is seen every day by the outside world. Make sure it packs a punch! Here are a couple of tips to amp of your curb appeal and get that “welcome home” feeling.
PRESSURE WASH AND PAINT
This tip is affordable, simple, and can be done by most DIYers and weekend warriors. Dirt and grime can buildup on brick, siding, windows, and walkways. A simple power wash can remove years of build up and brighten up your home. If you do not own a pressure washer, you can easily rent one from most hardware stores. Friendly warning though: if you’ve never used a pressure washer before, consider hiring a professional. The powerful blast of water can cause damage to surfaces if not done correctly. After giving your home a bath, consider painting focal points such as your front door, windows and shutters, or porch. The right color choice can give your home a new look.
ADD LIFE WITH LANDSCAPING
Having the right landscape design is like having the right haircut. It frames the facade of your home, draws your eye to or from certain elements, and can be a major complimenting factor in creating your curb appeal. More than a quick trip to the local nursery, just digging holes, and plopping in some plants, it is important to take factors such as the amount of sunlight, water, and maintenance into consideration. Planters are also a wonderful way to invite the eye to wander up to your front door, or welcome visitors as they walk up to your home and onto your front porch. When done right, landscaping has a large impact that adds color, life, and character to your home.
PORCHES, WALKWAYS AND EXTERIOR STRUCTURES
A little more in-depth than the other tips given today, investing some time and money into your entryway can completely transform the look and feel of your home. When rehabbing investment properties or coaching clients this is one of the top elements I emphasize. This is where most of your foot traffic is, where you spend time during warmer weather, and where you greet visitors. Your walkway, porch, or other entryway structures such as pergolas and trellises really shape your home visually and effect your curb appeal. Projects like these often require the expertise of a contractor, and it is well worth the investment to get things done right the first time.
COMPLETING THE CURB APPEAL
The easiest and most personable way to kick up curb appeal is to add the details that really tie your home together. These include mailboxes, door hardware, lighting, and outdoor accessories. Small elements like these can showcase your style and work together to create your home’s personality. As a Real Estate professional the number one detail that is commonly overlooked (but in my opinion is most important) are your house numbers. Pick something bold, unique, creative, and easy to read. Your house numbers are part of your home's identity and what visitors are looking for when trying to find your home. These small changes have big effects!
These curb appeal boosting tips range from simple tricks you can do yourself to more involved projects that could require the expertise of contractors and other professionals. They can help you ready your home for sale, or simply enjoy your living space more. If you need guidance on your curb appeal projects or referrals for professionals to get the job done, I would be happy to help!