The saying goes, “You never have a second chance to make a first impression” and when it comes to your home, that first impression doesn’t happen when someone steps through your front door. It happens from the street outside of your home and is referred to as “curb appeal.” We recently discussed the visual impact window boxes add to your home’s exterior, and this week we will share additional, practical focal points that will enhance your home’s curb appeal. Whether your goal is to increase your home’s equity, or you simply wish to create the most visually attractive picture of your home for your family and neighbors, enhancing your home’s curb appeal is well worth the planning and effort.
Beautify Yard and Walkway
- Keep a well manicured lawn; edge flower beds and replace over-grown bushes and shrubs to ensure landscaping aligns with your home’s architecture
- Be sure entrance walkway is well defined; use lighting and plant placement as visual aids
- Ensure fence and pergola are in good working condition and freshly painted; if you don’t have either, consider adding one or both for charm
- Re-seal any cracked asphalt and consider adding cobblestone edging to drive
Attention to Front Doors and Porch
- Add seating to front porch; even a small landing can feel more inviting with a handsome chair or stool
- The front door is your home’s focal point: be sure it’s freshly painted in a distinct color or stain
- Make certain the entrance is well lit with sconces and/or a hanging pendant: exterior lighting helps define the look of your house
- Clean door fixtures with metal polish and replace dated or worn hardware
- Hang a door wreath for an updatable dose of seasonal beauty
- Consider symmetry when adding potted plants or hanging baskets; overall organization of the façade is visually pleasing
Provide some Sparkle
- Polish your house numbers or replace them if they are rusty or hard to read
- Power wash outdoor siding, walkways and garage doors; this will give your home an instant face-lift
- Washing your garage doors will reveal areas that need sanding and/or paint touch ups; consider adding a lantern over door(s)
- Update the mailbox and paint the post if needed; add a fresh flowerbed to base
- Make sure gutters and downspouts are clean and in good working condition
- Ensure chimney is in good condition; touch up paint if needed
Enhancing your curb appeal will not only improve your home’s first impression for passers-by, it will create a more welcoming, visually pleasing exterior for your family and neighbors to enjoy. Your home’s first impression will be charming, inviting and lasting.