The term ‘curb appeal’ has almost become a buzzword in the world of real estate. It is described as the general attractiveness of a residential property to a prospective buyer. This means curb appeal refers to a house’s architectural charm and exterior beauty when viewed from a sidewalk.
We all have been stopped in our tracks simply to admire the aesthetic appeal of a property or building. It’s that “impact” homeowners and real estate agents are after when they speak about enhancing the curb appeal. You may not be able to judge a book by its cover but a home’s exterior says volumes about its internal state.
Did you know that a survey found 84% of homeowners were planning to invest in curb appeal in 2023? 58% were even willing to shell out as much as $5,000 every year to this end. If you also wish to take your home’s curb appeal to the next level, this article is your guide. Discover five areas that, when taken care of, will instantly amp up the curb appeal factor.
The Front Door
Historical French and casement doors do possess an otherworldly charm. However, it is not wise to continue with a dated front door. If you suspect that your home’s front door is compromised in terms of aesthetics or functionality, consider changing it.
The change can be made in terms of the entry door’s material, design, as well as decoration. For instance – steel doors are highly fortified and among the safest out there. If that sounded a bit unsettling, opt for a robust wooden door in a classic Victorian or vintage style.
You can also choose a modern minimalist-style front door whose look is enhanced with a bright coat of paint. Other than the door itself, switch up the adornments. An example would be following a seasonal theme. Since fall is approaching, you can decorate your door with a wreath made of orange and yellow leaves.
The area immediately outside the door can be decorated with carved pumpkins and apricots. Even the entry doormat can be inspired by the season. This not only showcases beauty but the care with which you regard your property. Any passerby would instantly know that the home is given its due diligence since its residents keep abreast with the times.
The Trash
The next area that must receive its due attention is the trash. When not disposed of properly, it will lead to more than an unsightly issue. You will have odor, flies, and whatnot. Does that sound like a convincing reason to invest in that property?
As per the data shared by Statista, the US generates a whopping 300 million tons of municipal solid waste every year. Waste management at broader levels of society is imperative, so it is in individual homes. You do not wish to make your living conditions unsanitary or disrupt someone’s street view of your glorious abode.
The first way you can handle the trash aesthetically is to hide them. By that, we mean to keep them where they are but covered or behind a screen. You can choose among screens or covers in vinyl, solid wood, and aluminum based on what complements your home’s exterior.
Speaking of trash, your pet’s waste also comes under this area. If allowed to linger on the lawn, porch, or any other place, it will detract from the property’s visual appeal. Most importantly, the lawn will appear patchy and unkempt with discolored grass.
Let’s not forget the unpleasant smell that can prevent visitors or guests from stopping by for a cup of tea. A convenient solution to this messy problem would be a reliable pet waste pickup service. This way, your home can stay consistently clean, visually pleasing, and odor-free.
Wondering why that’s needed when you pick up after your pet each time? The topmost reason would be the possibility of disease transmission. Pet waste contains harmful bacteria and pathogens. Simply picking it up and throwing it in the trash can is not the answer. As stated by Scoop Soldiers, sanitization, disinfection, and deodorization are equally important.
The experts will ensure all the necessary steps are carried out each time, leaving behind no traces of waste. It is a time-saving convenience that will also render you peace of mind.
The Porch
Just like the front door, any passerby would happen to glance at your home’s porch. If they like what they see, they may take a second look. The porch, occupying a larger area, undoubtedly becomes a greater focal point than the door.
So, the third place to direct your attention to is the front porch. If the color is dull and the paint is withering, a fresh coat should brighten things up. In case you feel like the furniture and upholstery have seen better days, consider getting rid of the dirt and cobwebs first.
If things are still drab, it’s best to shop for something new. You can follow a theme, say, a garden within a garden. That way, your porch can have installations like fake grass beds, lots of flowering plants, wooden sofas, floral or leafy upholstery, and macrame decorations.
This is but one example. From the seating arrangements to the furnishings, the scope is practically limitless when it comes to changing the porch’s look.
The Mailbox
When a visitor or a prospective buyer drives up to your home, the first sight they must behold is that of the mailbox. Little as it may be, this part of your home plays a key role in suggesting to outsiders about your eye for maintenance and detail.
It can be called nothing more than an eyesore when the mailbox is chipped, rugged, or broken. In some cases, some love in the form of a fresh coat of paint should work. Just ensure the color complements the rest of your home seamlessly.
In other cases, you may have to get the mailbox repaired or replaced altogether. Whichever it is in your home’s case, walk the extra mile and watch the tables turn.
The Lawn
We discussed the front door, porch, and even the trash cans. How can we miss out on the lawn which makes up such a significant part of one’s line of sight, right? Whether your home boasts a massive front yard or has modest space to spare, the aesthetic appeal boils down to its maintenance.
For instance – do you mow the lawn regularly? If the grass is not trimmed from time to time, it will give a disheveled look. Besides the mowing, your lawn may require proper edging to create clean lines for pathways and sidewalks. Finally, spray a mild fertilizer onto the grass once every season to prevent weed growth and maintain a healthy root system.
We hope this article offered you the insight and guidance you needed to elevate your home’s curb appeal. A study found that 46% of Gen-Zers and 43% of millennials affirmed investing in a property with architectural charm and stylistic features. Homeowners are realizing their window of opportunity and working on their property’s curb appeal.
Even if you don’t plan on listing your home on sale anytime soon, it will only make it appear more charming. So, make your home more attractive and desirable today!
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