The Power of Curb Appeal

By Cassie Johnson

We all know how important first impressions are, and curb appeal is the first impression someone sees of your home and property. Curb appeal describes how attractive the exterior of your home is to people passing by and prospective buyers. It can add value to your home and your neighborhood. Whether you need to tidy up outside to sell, increase the value of your home, or just present your house well, we’ve got a few tips to help.

New Roofing

Buyers, sellers, and neighbors see your home from top to bottom. It’s not unusual for homeowners to forget that their roof is as visible as their landscaping. Roof damage may not always be obvious to the untrained eye but a leak can be costly and a nightmare for the homeowner. Find a roofing expert who can help you pick the right material to withstand our 100-degree days and the frigid temps in the winter. A new roof will improve your home’s aesthetics and add value if you plan on selling. It can also save money on your utility bills.

“You have numerous options for choosing how your roof will look,” Mark Chambers, co-owner of Chambers Roofing told me. “It’s more than picking the right color. You also need to choose the right materials. Quality roofing can make your home unique and stand out from others and complement the architectural design of your home. There are choices such as s durable, low-maintenance metal roofs and slate shingles. Don’t forget about gutters which go hand in hand with roofing.”

Add Fencing

Fencing can provide privacy, show boundaries, and spruce up your yard. If your house is set back some distance from the street, fencing can help eliminate the feeling of a section of never-ending grass. There are more options than white picket fencing. Combining materials like vinyl with stone or brick can create a unique look. Classic wrought iron and treated woods are also good options.

“A fence is an extension of your home,” Jerrod Jennings, owner of Jennings Fencing told me. “You don’t want a fence to hide your home - you want fencing to enhance and compliment it. If it’s not a privacy fence, keep the height around four feet so it showcases your property. A lot of homeowners don’t know there is a “bad” or “rough” side of some fencing materials that looks a little less finished. Keep that side facing inward so others see the best side. There are endless possibilities to create fencing to add beauty to your home.”

Looking to Sell?

Real estate experts stress the importance of good curb appeal as it is one of the most successful factors if you want to sell your home.

"Curb appeal matters so much when you are selling your home,” Jaime Abell, Associate Broker/Realtor with Arnold Realty Group said. “The photos online may be great, but most buyers are driving by before they schedule an appointment to view the inside. If they don't like what they see from the outside, you may never get the chance to show them what the inside has to offer."

Since bad curb appeal could lead some buyers away from viewing a property, Abell has a few simple suggestions.

"I recommend to my clients that they clean up the landscaping before we put their home on the market. This includes trimming shrubs, weeding flower beds, and pressure washing the exterior and walks if needed. Some fresh potted flowers or a fun door hanger can make a big difference."

Landscaping

A huge, immaculate garden takes a lot of work. If pulling weeds for hours on end isn’t for you, keep it simple. Sometimes, it’s the small things that make big differences. Keep your yard mowed and choose clean-cut greenery like evergreen shrubs that will stay pretty all year long. Build or buy simple planter boxes for your windows that will make your home look friendly and charming.

Painting, lighting, doors, a paved driveway, and exterior features like a front porch also enhance your curb appeal. Boosting curb appeal is a great way to love your home more than you already do. Whether you ‘go big or go home’ with a full yard makeover or make simple changes such as painting or adding exterior lights, you can have your home ‘wow-worthy’ in no time. 