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Want to make your home stand out and impress at first sight? Boosting your curb appeal is the way to go. At the end of the day, it’s not just for selling your house – it also has the dual benefit of making you a proud homeowner.
Get Serious About Landscaping
Landscaping is the cornerstone of curb appeal. And, by the way, this isn’t just keeping the grass trimmed. The goal is to create a cohesive, well-kempt outdoor space that complements your home.
Start with the basics:
- Keep your grass neatly mowed
- Fertilize and water your lawn (if necessary) to keep it looking lush
- Trim overgrown hedges and bushes to keep your yard tidy
- Power wash sidewalks, driveways, and other hard surface to remove dirt and grime
- Mulch or straw beds at least once per year to keep them looking fresh.
But why stop there? Adding colorful flower beds or decorative planters can add a pop of color and life to your front yard.
You might consider planting native flowers and shrubs, which are beautiful and already adapted to your local climate (meaning they’re often easier to maintain).
If you have a small front yard or limited green space, container gardening with pots and window boxes can have a similarly charming effect.
Add a Fresh Coat of Paint
Sometimes, all your home needs is a bit of a facelift, and painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to achieve this. Start with your front door, which is typically a focal point of your home’s exterior.
Choose a color that stands out yet complements the overall color scheme of your house. Bold hues like red, blue, or even yellow can add a cheerful and welcoming touch, while soft pastels give off a relaxing, chic vibe.
Don’t overlook your shutters and trim. Refreshing them with a new coat of paint can strengthen your home’s character and make it look well-cared for. Stick to colors that coordinate with your front door and the primary color of your house for a cohesive look.
Consider Upgrading Your Siding
If you currently have a lower-end siding material – such as vinyl siding – upgrading to something a little stronger and aesthetically pleasing can instantly increase your curb appeal. Fiber cement siding is a great example.
Fiber cement siding is made from a strong mix of cement, sand, and fibers, which allows it to stand up to the elements without warping, rotting or fading. It’s also resistant to things like mold, pests, and fire.
Aside from its durability, fiber cement siding offers a high-quality look that can mimic more expensive materials like wood, stone, or brick. This aesthetic versatility allows you to achieve the desired style for your home, whether it’s a classic, rustic, or modern look, without the high cost and maintenance associated with natural materials.
In terms of investment, while fiber cement siding may have a higher upfront cost than vinyl, its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements can lead to cost savings over time.
Prioritize Good Lighting
Good lighting can transform your home’s curb appeal from good to great. (Seriously, flip through a home design catalog or look at listing photos of top luxury homes in your area, and you’ll see that good exterior lighting makes a huge difference in the visual appeal of a property.)
Consider installing landscape lighting to accentuate your walking paths, trees, or architectural details of your home. For example, solar-powered lights along the driveway or garden paths add beauty and practicality.
Don’t forget about the porch light, either! Updating this fixture can instantly modernize the look of your home and make it more inviting. Choose a light that complements the style of your house and provides adequate illumination for the entrance area.
Upgrade Hardware and Accessories
Details matter when it comes to curb appeal. Upgrading hardware like door handles, knockers, and house numbers can make a pretty noticeable difference. When picking out upgrades, select hardware that matches the style and era of your home, whether it’s modern, traditional, or something in between.
Accessories like a new mailbox, welcome mat, or seasonal wreaths can also contribute to the charm and personality of your home’s exterior. These small touches show that you take pride in your home and pay attention to details.
Prioritize Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance plays a very important yet underrated role in maintaining curb appeal. A well-kept home looks more inviting and appealing. For example:
- Pressure wash your siding, driveway, and walkways to remove dirt and grime
- Clean your windows inside and out to make sure they let in plenty of light
- Keep your roof and gutters in good condition to protect your siding and fascia
Nobody wants to spend their time on home maintenance projects, but they play an important role in the overall look and feel of your home. By prioritizing regular maintenance, you can make sure your house looks great all the time!
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