First impressions matter. How a property looks on the outside reflects its interior condition. Whether you’re planning to sell your home or simply want to improve the appearance of the exterior, it is rewarding to improve curb appeal.
Easy and Effective Ways to Improve Curb Appeal
Here are six practical and affordable tips to improve the exterior of your home.
1. Add Container Plants
Turn your home’s front porch into an inviting focal point using container plants. Choose a few large plants and arrange them on the porch. Add interest by varying the container sizes and plant colors. Alternatively, arrange the plants on different levels. Use hanging baskets, install planter boxes on the porch rails, or choose bold, dramatic greenery to display on either side of the front door.
2. Plant Trees to Improve Curb Appeal
An effective way to improve curb appeal is by planting trees. If you want to sell your home soon, choose small, fast-growing ornamental varieties. However, if you have no intentions of moving, plant trees like maples, oaks, or other large species suitable for your region.
3. Update the Windows
Although often ignored, windows are a great way to smarten the exterior of your home. Clean the window glass inside and out to allow more light into the house. Install window shutters to add color and interest to the outside of the property. You might add window boxes and plant bright flowers or greenery. Choose annual-blooming flowers for a quick burst of color.
4. Improve the Porch
If your house has a sizable front porch, leverage it to improve curb appeal. Add furniture and accessories to the area to help it feel warm and welcoming. Chairs, a comfortable bench, or a cozy porch swing create a conversation nook. Use throw pillows and an outdoor rug to add color.
5. Update the House Number
Buyers will search by the street number to find the property. Make sure your numbers are visible from the road. Old, rusted numbers date a home and don’t make a great impression. Shop for house numbers online or at your local home improvement store.
6. Improve Curb Appeal by Storing the Garden Hose
A tangled garden hose looks messy and can damage your hose. Use a holder to wrap the hose for storage. Keep it off the lawn and neatly tucked away until you need it. Create a place to store garden tools. It could be a deck box or an outdoor bench with hidden storage. Having a designated area for tools will help keep the house’s exterior tidy.
The exterior of your house is the first thing a potential buyer or visitor will notice. Clean and orderly spaces send the message that the home is well cared for.
Border Home and Property Inspections provides home inspections to customers in the Midwest region of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Contact us to schedule an appointment.