When we prepare to move, we are often preoccupied with the inside presentation of our house. However, the outside of your home will give potential buyers a first impression right off the bat. Here is some helpful information on how you can boost the curb appeal of your home.
Start with your front door. The front door is the portal to our home. Front doors can be surprisingly versatile, and if you’re looking to make a subtle or vibrant statement, the door is a great vessel to do just that. Make sure your front door is in immaculate condition, keep it polished and clean. Adding a small accent piece like a wreath can also dress up even a basic door. Additionally, keep your hardware functional and make sure it is visually pleasing.
Create perfect symmetry. Most people love the look of symmetry, and it is rather easy to create in a pinch. Symmetry can be achieved by getting a pair of twin lights, lanterns, or plants.
Install outdoor lighting. A home presented in good lighting can make all the difference. It also adds an additional sense of security. You can illuminate a pathway leading up to your front door, or decorate trees and other foliage with lighting.
Make sure your house number is displayed clearly. Most of us know how frustrating looking for a house can be when the number is not visible. An easy way to get better curb appeal is to make sure your house numbers are easily accessible. This will make a great impression for potential buyers who will be looking for it when they come to view your home.
If you have a real estate agent, ask for their advice. Reputable real estate agents will know about how to get optimal curb appeal. Often, they are able to notice the small details that we may gloss over. Things that may seem pleasing to you, may not be in the best interest for curb appeal. If you have any questions about whether or not something is beneficial, don’t be afraid to ask!
Plant some color. Plants and gardens can almost instantly make our homes look better. If you choose to sell your home in the warmer months, this is especially relevant. If you have flower beds or planter boxes that you have left untouched, now is the time to get them blooming. It is advisable to steer clear of artificial flowers if possible. Normally real flowers look much more appealing and have a more natural and vibrant color.
Does your home look accessible? Some homeowners prefer to keep the blinds closed. However, when boosting curb appeal the opposite is usually preferred. Make your home look open and inviting. This can be done by making sure the windows are not obstructed by blinds or curtains. You can also go outside and have a look from the street. Do your windows require some TLC and potential treatments? If so, look into hiring window washers or doing it yourself.
Take an honest inventory of your home from the curb. You can also call upon friends and family members to help you do this. Drive up to your home and make note of how it looks. What are your first impressions of the home? Are their things that immediately stick out? What are the best features of the home, and where could it use some work? If you discover any outlying problems, write them down and make arrangements to fix them.
Here are some easy fixes to instantly boost curb appeal.
- Kill any mold or mildew.
- Clean windows and gutters thoroughly.
- Pressure wash anything that looks particularly dingy or dirty.
- Repaint any chipped areas.
Landscaping is a must and can make or break a positive impression. Make sure your lawn is taken care of, this means mowing the lawn consistently, trimming and maintaining any plants or foliage, and pulling weeds and other eyesores that may pop up in a lawn or garden. Trim trees that obstruct the view of your home from the street.
Add some outdoor art for flair! Many home and garden stores have a good variety of simple and beautiful outdoor art. Keep a balance, and make sure you don’t overdo it. In small amounts outdoor art can be just the thing to add a touch of beauty to your front lawn.
Any major changes need to be addressed. If there is anything that needs a large overhaul, it is best to get this done as soon as possible. Walkways may need to be replaced, cracks in concrete, fences, railings, etc.
Lastly, don’t forget the backyard! It can be easy to forget the backyard, when so much attention is being placed at the front of the house. Any major changes to the backyard can and should be done when working on curb appeal. If you landscape the front yard, make sure you do the same out back to promote fluidity and cohesiveness. Work on making the entire outside of your house look aesthetically pleasing.
https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-improve-curb-appeal-1797869