Have you driven up to your home lately and not be too pleased with the image that greets you? It’s not that difficult to make a dramatic improvement in your home’s curb appeal over one weekend. Follow these recommendations from the experts and your home will be welcoming in no time. The first order of business is to stand across the stress with a pad and pen and really take a ruthless assessment of the exterior of your home and lawn. Make a list of items that need to be addressed and dedicate a weekend and a few hundred dollars either at your local home improvement store or favorite online auction site.
The first issue to address is the landscaping. Trim all overgrown shrubbery below the level of the windows. Trim shrubbery away from walkways and stair ways. Tree branches should be trimmed to be at least eight feet above the ground for both clearance and sun penetration. Redefine beds surrounding shrubbery and lay fresh pine straw or pine needles. Identify two areas along the walkway, front entrance or mailbox to plant flowers. They will serve to add color to the landscape and add interest points.
Remove any aged or tattered screen doors and select a paint color for the front door that compliments the color of the house and shutters. This will make a huge impact. Change out the light fixture with a large up-to-date fixture and add a soft white bulb. Either spray paint the mailbox or replace. Add new house numbers that are large enough to clearly be seen from the street. A fresh welcome mat should be your final addition to the entry way. Finally, check all gutters and repair if necessary and paint the shutters, if needed a color to compliment the outside of the house and front door.
Maintaining your freshly updated look can be accomplished in a few hours each weekend. You’ve not only increased the curb appeal of your home, but you’ve also added value to your property. Welcome to your new home.