Curb Appeal – Simple Tricks For Less

If your house lacks a bit of something on the outside, add some curb appeal using these tips and strategies:

Everyone wants their house to be the best looking one on the block; however between work and family and everything else that has to get done, homes tend to get neglected, until one day you are driving through the neighbourhood looking at all of the nice houses and see your house looking less than attractive. There is no need to panic: A few simple touches will change your house from looking old, to as good as new.

Clean It
Like anything else that sits outdoors, the siding, windows, and roof surface get littered with dust and dirt. Using a pressure washer, wash off the roof surface first, making sure to spray at a perpendicular angle to the roof so you do not damage the shingles. This will also help clean the gutters out and help you unplug any blockages in the downspouts.

Clean the siding with the pressure washer, starting at the top of the walls and working down. Move from side to side so you can see where you have worked. Lightly go over the windows and use a squeegee to clean the excess water off, for a streak-free clean.

Clean the pathways to the house as well: Concrete and paved walkways collect a lot of dirt over the years. Washing the surface with a pressure washer will take years off of the pathway and welcome people to the door, not put them off.

Landscaping
When it comes to landscaping, less can be more: A few bushes lining the front of the house, with a small flower garden in front of the bushes, gives the home’s front yard some depth. Wrap the garden around the corner slightly, to bring the garden to an ending point without it being drastic.

Add some large flower pots to define the entry to the home: This creates interest while adding a spot of colour close to the house; to compliment the garden in front of the bushes.

Window flower boxes can also be used, but keep in mind how often you will need to water them and their proximity to a water source that you will be able to use to maintain the flowers.

Front Door Paint
Painting the front door a bold colour, in contrast to the rest of the house, will stand out and direct everyone’s eyes from the garden, through the entryway and directly to the front door. Reds, blues and greens are all colours that tend to work with almost any décor and style. Stay away from blacks and grays as these can give an unwelcoming impression.

Shutters
While modern windows do not need shutters, they can be added for a decorative touch. Choose a colour that compliments the house and the style of the house. Also be sure to size the shutter, so they are slightly larger than the height of the windows. They don’t need to be working shutters; false shutters are attractive and much cheaper, while still achieving the desired effect.

Using these tips will transform your home’s curb appeal and give you the satisfaction you and your home deserve when you approach, and if your house is up for sale, it will help you sell your property fast.