5 Simple Ways to Boost Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is a trending theme when it comes to real estate. But it really is true… your home’s curb appeal is the first impression you give to anyone. The outdoors is tricky and the maintenance throughout every season sometimes is overwhelming.

Curb appeal means the impression of the attractiveness of an exterior property and its surroundings when viewed from the street. It is one of the most important things you can do, whether your house is for sale or not. It is the first impression of your property before anyone even steps inside. 

But regardless of your motivation, people will be excited to see the inside of your home far more when your outdoor first impression is appealing. If you are a potential home buyer, this is especially important. The first thing anyone notices when they are driving up to your home is the exterior. 

Curb appeal is considered the most critical marketing tool for showing your home to others. Potential buyers want to know how you care for your home, and the outdoor first look creates an impression that lasts. 

You don’t have to break the bank trying to WOW your guests, neighbours or potential buyers.

I am all about making your curb appeal a minimalist, maintenance-free and simple, but beautiful first impression. Regardless of the time of year, there are simple things you can do to have those driving or walking by take a second look at your home. 

1. Stomp on Something Pretty

Investing in a new front door mat to stomp your muddy or snowy boots or shoes is so worth it. There are so many fun mats out there to choose from, but a clean and functional mat warms up a front door like nothing else. Let your doormat reflect your personality and the time of year, and in the end, it really does help your inside lobby stay a little bit cleaner when people enter. 

2. Replace Old Hardware around the front door

Sometimes a new wall-mounted mailbox, door handle or overhead light fixture can add some pizazz and style to your home’s exterior. If your hardware looks outdated, rusty or drab, a replacement can really make a difference in conveying an attractive new aesthetic. Having them work cohesively and collectively together will help add to the appeal (in other words, don’t mix your finishes, try to be consistent). 

3. Add planters or window boxes. 

Simple but elegant, seasonal plants are an easy way to bring natural elements and colours to your home’s curb appeal. Use seasonal flowers and plants to warm up your space. Pots are versatile and often pre-prepared for you beautifully, or you can compile on your own. Many artificial options look amazing when mixed well, and swapping out your mum’s for evergreens can be easy without redoing everything every three months. Twinkle lights are another beautiful way to adorn your planters. Pretty lights are not just for the December holidays anymore! You can showcase your front entrance with welcoming lights throughout your planters. 

4. Add Seating 

Nothing says welcome more than a cozy and casual piece of furniture and textures at your front door. A rocking chair, Muskoka chair or a small armchair encourages the concept of rest and relaxation to guests arriving at your door. The beautiful thing about a piece of furniture is the mood it evokes, and the warmth of a seasonal pillow or throw can create a warm and inviting public face to your home. 

5. Pretty it up with lighting!

I know I already talked about lighting in tip #3, but lighting also needs its own focus because of the many opportunities to use lighting to spruce up your curb appeal. You can do so much with lights to add some "glowing" curb appeal to your front or backyard decor. LED lights are a popular and cost-effective option that will save you money in the long run. Solar pathway lights, strings of garden lights, or spotlights all keep your home looking inviting, charming and warm.

Curb Appeal is an integral part of your home’s first impression, regardless of whether you are selling or not. And even if you are not in the real estate market right now looking for a potential buyer, you may be one day. 

And that first impression you make with your curb appeal is undoubtedly one that lasts and may become your shift into a quick sale one day. 

Ways to Boost Your Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is a trending theme when it comes to real estate. But it really is true… your home’s curb appeal is the first impression you give to anyone. The outdoors is tricky and the maintenance throughout every season sometimes is overwhelming. Curb appeal means the impression of the attractiveness of an exterior property and its surroundings when viewed from the street. It is one of the most important things you can do, whether your house is for sale or not. It is the first impression of your property before anyone even steps inside. Read my five simple tips to create simple but beautiful curb appeal without breaking the bank.