What is curb appeal and how to increase it

It’s said that a first impression is a lasting impression. And we’re not talking about you, but your property! The attractiveness of your home’s exterior is a major selling point to potential buyers, as most real estate agents will tell you. Adding curb appeal will not only make your home easier to sell, but it will also give you a sense of property pride.

Some buyers are unable to visualise changes, and therefore won’t take a second look at a house if they weren’t interested the first time around. And since we generally only get one chance to make a good first impression, we’ve listed some tips to help increase your home’s curb appeal. You can tackle most of these on your next free weekend, and some range from no cost to moderate expense.

Invest in some landscaping

This is kind of a biggie in terms of great curb appeal. A plush green lawn and some colourful flower beds can make a stunning transformation. So, start fertilising and watering your lawn regularly, tackle any overgrown plants or trees and get rid of any weeds. There are times when adding elements can improve your curb appeal, but there are other times when removing something is more effective. You may have some features outside your home that are obscured by plants or trees. Enhance the good points of your home’s exterior and remember, sometimes less is more.

Replace old hardware

House numbers, overhead light fixtures and an entry door lockset may seem like such small details, but when done right, they can add an element of style and interest to your home’s exterior. If you have old and dingy hardware on your home’s exterior, try replacing it. A new shiny doorknob can make a plain door look stunning!

Repetition, repetition and repetition

This is where similar colours, shapes and textures are repeated across a property to create cohesion and uniform. Look for ways to repeat colours and shapes, this could be matching the colours between your fence and your home’s exterior. For something simple you could try using the same colour and finish between your house numbers and letterbox.

Create symmetry

A simple and yet aesthetically pleasing design technique is that of symmetry. A symmetrical design is when you create a mirror effect, equally dividing features such as specific plants or colours. Try aligning your hedges with property lines, the walls of your home and fence or other prominent features. Creating symmetry can be as easy as flanking your front door with potted feature plants or light fixtures - and it’s timeless.

Mailbox makeover

Mailboxes should complement a home and express some of the owner’s characteristics. They also offer a great opportunity to add some colour and create uniform and cohesion in your front yard. And there are so many things you can do! There is always the option of purchasing a new mailbox, but where’s the fun it that? Try revamping an old mailbox and adding elements of other materials. Sometimes, a coat of paint is all that’s needed, you could make your mailbox a floral focal point of your yard.

Install flower boxes

If your home’s exterior is lacking colour, try adding some flower boxes. There are plenty of online tutorials if you want to attempt it yourself, otherwise your local hardware store should have something available. Try installing the boxes on the front porch railings and below windows.

Even if you’re not planning on selling your home, a fresh and welcome exterior is an excellent way to come home each day. When you’re deciding on which upgrades to make, remember to consider the current state of your home’s exterior and what will look and work best with it.