Curb Appeal
Whether you're selling your home and want top dollar, or just want a beautiful house to come home to, start at the street. Focus on the essentials - upkeep, landscaping, balance, cohesiveness and charm - to get that often-lusted-after-but-seldom-achieved "curb appeal."
ADDRESS REPAIRS
Wash, paint, repair. You can spend all the time (and money) in the world with frou frou distractions, but if you need a new roof, you need a new roof. Start with the basics and the rest will be the icing on top.
Scrub the siding, touch up the trim, and repair the handrail. And, while it can be costly, a fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference and may be worth it.
CLEAN UP THE landscaping
Trim the trees, prune the bushes, sweep your walkways and even the mulch. Reseed or replace brown patches in the grass. Create balance between each element: established landscaping looks even better when it's in proportion with your home. And don't forget about pots, planters and window boxes; layer each with seasonal blooms to add color and texture.
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Aim for consistency in terms of architectural and design style. If you have a Craftsman door, decorative Victorian corbels won't make sense. Use online sources like Pinterest and Houzz to inspire and guide you.
If you're having a tough time putting a finger on what doesn't feel quite right, don't hesitate to call in the pros - an architect or designer should be able to spot the issue easily.
Add charm
The most welcoming entries have a little personality. Add a pop of color with a painted door or shutters. Replace your door hardware and add a vintage door knocker. Create ambiance with lighting. Rotate seasonal wreaths. And don't forget the welcome mat.
Take caution: while special features can be memorable, take care in choosing those that are not polarizing style-wise. Your cherished antique knickknack collection might feel overwhelming and distracting to others.