Whether you are selling your home or planning to stay a while longer, knowing how to improve curb appeal for your property is vital for stabilizing or increasing your home’s value. If you are not intending to move, adding curb appeal to your home on a consistent basis could even set an example for your neighbors and take steps towards improving the look of the neighborhood.
Here is a list, in no order of importance, of ways to boost your home’s curb appeal:
- Install New Light Fixtures
- Take Care of Your Lawn
- Landscaping
- Paint (door, trim, house, etc.)
- New garage door
- Power Wash House and Garage
- Inspect/Repair Concrete
- Wash Your Driveway, Patios, and Decks
- Clean and Arrange Outdoor Furniture
Read on for more details on how to complete all the tasks listed above.
Install New Light Fixtures
Light fixtures are most often the first thing noticed when someone is walking into or past your home when the sun is down. If your current fixtures are in subpar condition or simply outdated, replacing them can go a long way. Make sure to clean up any debris or cobwebs in these areas as well. Whether you are replacing current fixtures or installing makeshift ones with string or wire, this is one of the most cost-effective methods for improving curb appeal.
Take Care of Your Lawn
Keeping your lawn in great condition tops the list when it comes to easy curb appeal projects. When rainfall seems to be relatively scarce, primarily during summer months, make sure to water your grass to prevent it from browning out. Additionally, keep up with mowing the lawn. Overgrown grass creates the idea for your guests and neighbors that maintaining your property is not a priority.
Paint!
Coupled with light fixtures, your front door is likely the first thing a guest will notice on your home. Painting the front door can greatly improve your home’s curb appeal, and it is an inexpensive project. While you are tending to your door, assess whether any trim, shutters, or siding can use some sprucing up as well.
New Garage Door
You probably never noticed it since it is usually hard to tell from a distance, but your old garage door can likely use a replacement. Having a new garage door installed can greatly increase the curb appeal for your home, especially if you live on a lot where the garage has high visibility from the street. Additionally, replacing the garage door has a solid return on investment when selling the home.
Power Wash the House and Garage
Having your house washed professionally is the best way to restore its shine. Throughout the year, surface contaminants like algae, mold, and dirt make their way to your siding. Soft washing your home will safely eliminate those surface contaminants and get your siding looking like new. When having the house washed, it is recommended to address the roof. If there is any moss or streaking on the roof, having a low-pressure treatment with the proper cleansers will revitalize the surface. When selling your home, having it professionally washed can add upwards of $15,000 in value as well.
Inspect/Repair Concrete
If you notice that the concrete on your driveway, front steps, or patio is crumbling or deteriorating, you should take the proper steps to address those. While having new concrete poured is relatively expensive, safety is what is most important. According to April Howe of The Cleary Company:
| “Crumbling steps, cracks in your driveway or uneven surfaces pose hazards that could lead to injury and even make you liable for injuries or damages“. April Howe, The Cleary Company |
Additionally, having these surfaces repaired or replaced will have a great return on investment when selling your home.
Wash Driveway, Decks, and Patios
First, sweep the debris off your patio, driveway, and deck. Once you have swept, you should have these surfaces washed as well. Washing these surfaces will help restore their shine, but make sure to use a safe pressure and the proper cleansers when doing so. If you are not comfortable using a pressure washer, calling a professional power washing company is always a great option.
Clean and Arrange Furniture
Now that your decks and patios are looking fantastic, you likely want the furniture to match. Simply hosing off and gently scrubbing your patio furniture will put you and your guests at ease. Arranging your furniture in an appealing manner will also create a better experience, especially for potential buyers trying to imagine themselves in this space.