When you own a home you want to take pride in it from the outside in.
You know that first impressions matter, so what are some steps that you can take to add curb appeal to your property that will make people take a second look? While there are many different small improvements that you can make to your property, they can get pretty expensive; so we’ve put together a list of improvements that will add curb appeal to your property without hurting your wallet.
Add a Coat of Paint
One way to revive the outside of your own and brighten things up is to add a bold color to your front door, trim, and shutters. Choose a color that matches with the rest of your home and prep the surfaces properly to get the best results. Most outdoor paint will only cost $30 per gallon, and it can do a great deal to bring new life to the outside of your home that lasts for several years.
Shine a Light on Your Property
A great way to draw attention to your home is to add lighting that pulls the eye to the property. You should select new lighting that adds to the overall look of your home while maintaining functionality. If you choose fixtures that use the same mounting systems as the lighting that already exist you can save money and time, you also don’t have to purchase these lights new, you can look at salvage yards and vintage shows to match the age of your home or to add a unique look to your property. Another way to brighten up your property is to add solar lighting to your walkways or to accent different features of your yard. Consider adding a few to the yard to light up the front of your home or the trees in the yard, since they are solar powered they won’t run up your electric bill and will only cost you around $20-$40 to purchase depending on what you choose.
While you’re at it consider adding new numbers to the side of your home, because chances are they’ve faded over the last few years. Try to find ones that match or compliment the finish that’s on your porch or exterior lights. You can find these numbers at any Walmart, Target, or home improvement store with prices ranging from $2.00 up to $100.00 depending on your preference.
Replace the Mailbox
Giving your home curb appeal can be as simple as sprucing up your actual curb with a new mailbox. Whether your box sits next to the road or on the side of your home adding a new one can add a fresh and clean look to your property without costing an arm and a leg, you can find basic mailboxes starting around $20.00 and the project will typically take you less than two hours to complete.
Increase the Plant-life around the Home
If you want to add color, without changing the paint on your home, consider adding a few flower boxes around your porch and near the windows. You can buy or even build your own flower boxes or window boxes for a reasonable price and take very little time to put together. Keep in mind that whatever you plant will require maintenance on your part, so don’t plant anything that you’re not willing to give attention from time to time.
If flower boxes aren’t for you, consider planting a tree or two in your yard to frame your home and add character to your yard. They are relatively low maintenance and will eventually provide your home with shade, just keep in mind how large the tree will become and how it will impact your home and yard.
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OTHER HELPFUL ARTICLES:
DIY Network – Instant Curb Appeal
Listotic – Easy and Cheap Curb Appeal
*Modified sample photo. Property shown, not an actual listing.