8 Steps To Perfect Curb Appeal

Whether you are getting ready to sell your home or you plan to live in it forever, curb appeal matters. It's an undisputed fact that great curb appeal helps increase the value of your home. But we believe that curb appeal also brings peace and happiness to the home's inhabitants as well. Think about it. How great would it feel to pull up to a beautifully maintained home every day and know that that home was yours? Today we are going to share 8 projects that can help transform your curb appeal.  

Transform Your Home's Curb Appeal

1. Exterior Paint

Start with a fresh coat of paint. This is one of the quickest and easiest ways to give your home's exterior a facelift. And it doesn't have to be expensive - you can do it yourself with some inexpensive paint and a few hours of free time.

Before you start, consider your colors.  If you are not limited by a homeowner association, take some time in choosing a color that you love.  Drive around neighborhoods, visit your local paint store, and find out what the latest trend is so you aren't repainting again in the next year.

If you are limited by the homeowner association, be sure to check the rules first to avoid any clash with their guidelines.  You may also ask when they last changed the guidelines.  Many neighborhoods are updating their guidelines to keep the homes from feeling outdated. They may have added news colors recently or may consider adding to the approved list with a little push in the right direction. 

2. Siding

Install new siding. If your home's siding is in bad shape, it can really drag down the look of your whole house. If you're looking for a major curb appeal upgrade, consider installing new siding. Aluminum siding is a great option because it's durable and low maintenance.

In the past ten years, we have seen some major changes in siding style as well.  You are no longer stuck with the same old siding.  You may find some options were not available to you when you first bought your home.  Give us a call to learn more about the types of siding that are now available.

3. Landscaping

Spruce up your landscaping. Curb appeal starts with great landscaping. If your lawn is patchy or full of weeds, take some time to spruce it up. Plant some flowers or shrubs, edge the walkway, and make sure the grass is mowed.

Keep in mind that landscaping is as much about what's not there as what is there.  If you have overgrown trees or bushes, you may find that removing them and replacing them with smaller more tamable options will make all the difference.

4. Replace Old Hardware

Another quick and easy way to improve curb appeal is to replace old hardware like door handles, house numbers, and light fixtures. This is a relatively inexpensive project that can make a big impact.

This is where a walk around the neighborhood, a drive through other neighborhoods or a visit to a local hardware store, like Clement's Hardware can come in.  There are so many more options than ever before.

5. A Clear View

Clean the windows. Nothing makes a house look more inviting than sparkling clean windows. If your windows require a good cleaning, hire a professional or do it yourself. It's worth the effort!

While you are at it, consider replacing any missing or damaged screens. 

6. Add Some Color

Curb appeal is all about making your home stand out from the rest. One way to do this is to add some color with flowers, paint, or even colorful shutters. Consider adding Adirondack chairs to a corner of the front yard, using colorful containers to your front porch or among your shrubs, and even small sculpture pieces that bring you joy.

7. Upgrade Your Front Door

The front door is one of the first things people see when they approach your home, so make sure it makes a good impression. If your door is looking worn or dated, consider replacing it. This is one of those changes that surprise homeowners.  One of our homeowners replaced her front door and then had to move two years after.  She called us to find out how much it might cost to take that door with her. That's how much people love their beautiful new front doors.

8. Add Some Lighting

Good lighting can make a big difference in the way your home looks at night. Consider adding some outdoor lights to highlight your home's best features, including your landscaping.  While you are at it, consider converting your lighting to smart lighting.  That way you can set a schedule for the lights and come home at the end of a long day to find your home welcoming you home.

These are just a few ideas to get you started on improving your curb appeal. With a little effort, you can make a big impact on the way your home looks - and feels! If you need any help with home projects, we’d love to help. Give us a call today - 410-360-3453