What is Curb Appeal?

This weekend I was doing an open house at a very nice house but what caught alot of people’s attention was the house directly across the street (which was not for sale).  It was the curb appeal of that home, which had some of the people asking me about that property instead of the one I was showing them.

When you get out of a car and walk up to a house, some strong first impressions are made within the first few seconds.  This is Curb Appeal.

So, when you are thinking of putting your house on the market, yes, you have to clean and paint the inside of the house to show well, but the outside of the home is just as important, as it can either get people excited to see inside the house or it can do exactly the opposite.

Here are a couple of ideas that can help improve the curb appeal of your home.

Create perfect symmetry

Symmetry is not only pleasing to the eye, it's also the simplest to arrange. Symmetrical compositions of light fixtures and front-door accents create welcoming entryways

Replace old hardware

House numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, and an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home's exterior. If they're out of date or dingy, your home may not be conveying the aesthetic you think it is.

Install outdoor lighting

Low-voltage landscape lighting makes a huge impact on your home's curb appeal while also providing safety and security. Fixtures can add accent lighting to trees or the house or can illuminate a walking path.

Create an instant garden

Container gardens add a welcoming feel and colorful appeal to any home exterior -- quickly and affordably

Renew planter beds

Get garden beds into shape by pruning growth, pulling weeds, planting flowers, and adding new mulch to restore color that was taken away by sunlight and harsh weather. If stone or brick borders your bed, consider cleaning and resetting any pieces that are soiled or dislodged.

Dress up the driveway

If your driveway is cracked or stained or has vegetation sprouting from it, you can upgrade it without doing a complete redo. First repair the cracks and stains (and kill the weeds), then dress it up by staining the concrete or affixing flagstones.

Upgrade railings

Porch and stoop railings can deteriorate quickly if not treated properly. If your railings are past their prime, look for quality wood or metal components to replace the existing material.

Maintain your Lawn

Make sure you mow the lawn a couple of times a week, remove all toys and garbage from the front lawn.

Thanks to Better Homes and Gardens