Stand in front of your home and look at it from an outsider’s perspective. How would you rate your curb appeal? Would you drive by thinking “Wow!” or not give your property a second glance?
Sellers often turn to real estate agents for advice on how to stage their property. However, improving outward appearances matters, even if you aren’t in the market. Clean, orderly locations imply neighbors who care, which encourages opportunistic thieves to look elsewhere and keeps crime down.
Those looking to leap into today’s hot market benefit from the right upgrades. What should you do to improve your property without breaking the budget for major renovations? Here are eight ways to set your home apart through the science of curb appeal.
8 Ways To Create Curb Appeal & Set Your Home Apart
You can complete most of the upgrades below in a single weekend. Most of them are DIY-friendly, but there’s no shame in calling in a pro. These renovations won’t break your budget but can have a significant impact on your overall curb appeal — and ROI.
1. A Few Splashes Of Paint
Painting your home’s entire exterior isn’t necessary unless badly peeling. A quick pressure washer application is often enough to remove surface grime and restore luster.
However, a few touches of paint can transform your entire facade. For example, going from beige to a vibrant red or blue for your garage door, entrance door and shutters can shift your property’s entire vibe and really make you stand out.
2. A Neatly Manicured Landscape
Notice we mention “landscape,” not “lawn.” Xeriscaping can look every bit as elegant as golf course-trimmed grass while being far more sustainable and freeing you from weekly mowing. It’s also easier on your budget once established, as you spend less on fertilizer and seed.
Whether you go with xeriscaping or a traditional lawn, little features add big-time curb appeal.
Want a striking entryway reminiscent of something Bruce Wayne might own? Have a professional install permanent pillar fire pits to welcome visitors. However, those who lack a superhero budget can create similar effects with portable models.
Water features, like fountains and rock rivers, also enhance your home’s exterior. The latter can work in conjunction with your downspout to direct water away from your foundation.
3. A Tidy Garage
Drive through suburbia on any given Saturday and witness rows of open garages. Some of them make you want to pull in and set up house, while others — not so much. Achieve the former effect by tidying and organizing this space.
Storage space is among the top desired characteristics homebuyers look for, so hang some pegboard for small tools. Metal shelves and lockers are easy to assemble and you might find them free or at a low cost if you have a salvage yard nearby. A quick coat of epoxy hides minor cracks and oil stains while protecting the concrete from further damage.
4. And A Solid Driveway Leading To It
If your driveway is a roadmap of cracks and minor potholes, it’s time to coat it. Choose a day when the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold and there’s no rain predicted for at least 48-72 hours. Coordinate with your neighbors about on-street parking if necessary to avoid disputes.
5. The Right Lighting
Exterior lighting has come far, much to the delight of the dark skies folks. Installing lighting under ledges and eaves protects the view of the night sky while illuminating your home’s exterior to deter thieves. You can even find outdoor waterproof strip lighting to highlight beneath your home’s windows and around entryways in various hues, creating a unique nighttime aura.
6. An Attractive Mailbox
The toughest part about replacing your mailbox may be digging the post hole if you have stony soil. A cute, upgraded mailbox creates a cozy look and adds far more curb appeal than a wobbly, rusted model that lists to port.
7. An Inviting, Accessible Entryway
Speedy ways to upgrade your entryway beyond paint and lighting include:
- Adding a welcome mat
- Including potted trees or shrubbery
- Providing seating
- Improving accessibility and safety with a stylish railing
8. Topping It Off Right
Finally, give your roof some TLC. Trouble overhead can create larger damage within your home. Here’s one upgrade that might require you to hire a professional, especially if you have a two-or-more-story home. Clean out your gutters, which you should do once or twice annually and inspect your roof while on the ladder.
Pay attention to flashing and the area around your chimney. Replace any damaged tiles or shingles and call for help if you suspect leaks. Water can run into interior walls, sparking electrical fires or spurring mold growth.
The Science of Curb Appeal
How do you feel when you drive past your home? Little upgrades can significantly improve your property’s curb appeal. Use the suggestions above to beautify your exterior and set your home apart.
About The Author
Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief at Modded, where he writes about cars, fitness, the outdoors and more. Check out @TModded for regular updates, and subscribe to Modded Minute for more!
This blog post may contain links to external websites or products. We encourage you to do your own research to make sure a company or product is right for you.
The Unsplash License allows us to use the images from Unsplash for free, including for commercial purposes, without attributing the contributor or Unsplash.