=====[srform] We often spend so much time focusing on the improving the inside of our home that the exterior can be neglected. But the truth is,...
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We often spend so much time focusing on the improving the inside of our home that the exterior can be neglected. But the truth is, what you see outside is representative of what’s inside. That is why curb appeal is so important.
Even the smallest detail, such as a cracked step or an untrimmed hedge can negatively impact your curb appeal. If you’re planning to sell your home soon, you’ll want to make sure your curb appeal is the best it can be. Here is what can negatively impact curb appeal and what you can do to fix it.
Are you ready to update the look of your home’s exterior? Contact a contractor today for quotes from pros in your area.
Why Is Curb Appeal Important?
As I mentioned earlier, curb appeal is the first impression of your home. It can be a factor when it comes to selling your home as it can help prove the value of your home. Regardless, you should take pride in your home’s exterior.
“I think there are quite a few benefits to adding curb appeal to your home, even if it's not on the market,” Ashley Dudich, home blogger and owner of All The Design, said. “Curb appeal can bring a lot of value to a property, just as improvements are done inside your home can add value. Curb appeal can also be really enjoyable for the homeowner. Just as I love walking into a freshly updated space inside our home, I truly enjoy driving up to our house and experiencing that same sense of welcome and calm. The benefits of curb appeal can also extend beyond your property line, as it can contribute to great relationships with neighbors and an extension of increased value to the area.”
Improving Curb Appeal
The smallest details can be negatively impacting your curb appeal and must be improved. Things you’ve seen as projects for a later date can make your exterior look sloppy and uninviting. Here are a few curb appeal tasks you should improve now:
- Undermaintaining Your Exterior
- Poor Landscaping
- Cluttered Front Lawns
- Not Incorporating Trends
- Underutilizing Landscape Lighting
1. Undermaintaining Your Exterior
You may look past it many times, but to a first-time visitor, a broken light fixture or peeling paint can be the first sign of neglect for your curb appeal. These details are very small but actually, make a big difference.
“I think one of the most important aspects of curb appeal is maintenance,” Dudich said. “Replacing older light fixtures or light bulbs that are burned out can be a really simple way to update the look while increasing appeal. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, trim or siding can give the home a nice new look, as well as protection from the outdoor elements.”
2. Poor Landscaping
Overgrown trees and bushes could be hiding the beauty of your home. Trimming shrubs and hedges can instantly change the look of your front yard. It’s a task that doesn’t have to be completed as often as other landscaping maintenance work, but nevertheless, it should be added to your to-do list.
If you’re having trouble keeping up with your yard maintenance, you may want to contact a landscaping contractor who can get the job done for you. The average cost to maintain a lawn is $226, with most homeowners spending between $127 and $237.
3. Cluttered Front Lawns
Is your front lawn décor made up of mostly children’s toys and yard supplies? It’s time to get organized and find a place for them.
“Finding ways to further tidy-up the exterior can help improve appeal as well,” Dudich said. “This can include trimming up overgrown trees or bushes, rolling up hoses on a reel, tucking away bikes and other outdoor toys and clutter, and keeping up yard clean-up in general.”
This isn’t limited to your yard either. Think of your front porch. Are there still holiday decorations hanging in windows or on railings? Take them down until the season approaches. Did you have a party and left the clutter out for too long? It’s time to clean that up.
4. Not Incorporating Trends
Just like your interior, there are certain trends that apply to curb appeal. If you haven’t been incorporating them into your outdoor décor, you could be missing out on an easy way to make a lasting impression. Wondering what’s trending? Dudich has a few suggestions.
“There are quite a few outdoor trends that I'm loving these days,” she said “A few of my favorites include updated house numbers, metal containers for a front porch or walk-way and signature front doors that give a home personality. Front yard gathering areas, such as a patio or porch area are becoming more and more popular as well.”
Colorful front doors are also a current trend among homeowners. It’s an element you can play with that can really pop. Read What Color Should I Paint My Front Door for more inspiration.
5. Underutilizing Landscape Lighting
Curb appeal doesn’t end when the sun goes down. By using landscape lighting, you can highlight the uniqueness of your home, even at night.
“Exterior lighting can add quite a bit of appeal and ambiance to an outdoor space,” Dudich said. “If you're looking for a way to take your curb appeal to the next level, start researching how you can highlight your beautiful home and landscaping even when the sun goes down.”
Two ways you can enhance your curb appeal at night is with path lighting and accent lights. These will highlight features like trees and pathways that can bring additional beauty at night.
Conclusion
If you find yourself making any of these five mistakes, don’t worry, it can be easily fixed! Take some time to spruce up the front of your home. You’ll fall in love with your exterior all over again!
Ready to get started? Read Curb Appeal Improvements That Don’t Cost A Fortune for more inspiration.
