The thing about first impressions is that you don’t get another try to make one. That’s why you have to make your first attempt count. When it comes to the curb appeal of your home, you need to get it right as soon as you move in to boost your perception in the neighborhood and increase your property value while you’re at it.
If you are in the process of moving to a new home, or you just moved in, it’s time to prep the exteriors and take your curb appeal to the next level. Homes that have spotty landscaping, zero décor, and chipping paint can be an eyesore to the whole neighborhood. On the other hand, top-notch curb appeal can make your property look beautiful and help you fit in with those around you.
Same goes if you’re selling your home and want to get top dollar for it. Making your home and yard look beautiful can appeal to potential buyers and command more for the property.
That said, you don’t have to spend a fortune on curb appeal improvements. Check out these quick and easy ways to improve your home’s aesthetics in Fort Worth and surrounding areas.
Inspect Your Property
The first thing you should do is walk around the house and inspect your exteriors, your landscaping and your yard. Check out the view from the street to see how others driving or walking by perceive your home. When planning your upgrade strategy, talk a stroll around the circumference of the home, concentrating on accents like lighting, shrubbery, the front entry way, porch, your driveway and any flower beds. Try to look at everything objectively.
Take note of any areas that need extra TLC. Come up with a list so you can check items off later as you go.
Upgrade Your Front Door
The most effective and least expensive way you can improve curb appeal is to apply a fresh coat of paint on the front door. Don’t go too bold with the color, although a nice pop of color can really give your whole home a nice makeover. It should complement your home’s siding, and so should the hardware, fixtures and doorknob. Hang a wreath, flag or other decoration on the door.
If the door has seen better days, this is the time to upgrade it. If you have a porch, check that out too. It may need a new coat of paint, or you may have to fix loose boards or railings.
Power Wash the Exteriors
Siding can get streaky and dirty over time, so power wash it for a bright, clean look. Getting off all the mildew and dirt can really make a difference. If you rent a machine and do it yourself, make sure you educate yourself on the process beforehand, and are aware of the right amount of pressure to apply.
Once the siding is done, tackle the driveway, walkways, patios and sidewalks.
Add Window Boxes
Place colorful flowers and plants in window boxes to further brighten your curb appeal. Use seasonally-appropriate flowers, and choose wisely when it comes to the amount of shade or sun they need. Once they have been planted, weed and prune as needed.
Replace Outdated Fixtures and Old Hardware
Switch out your house numbers, door hardware and lights so they complement each other and offer a fresh new look to your property. Over time, those items can get weathered and mismatched from the previous owners. Purchase overhead and wall-mounted light fixtures so they properly illuminate your walkways for safety.
Tune Up Your Garage Door
Garage doors are one of the most prominent features on your home, yet many homeowners neglect them. They are indeed a big part of your exterior décor, so make sure they contribute to the visual interest and appeal of your property. If your garage door is still in good shape, add a fresh coat of paint and some new fixtures. If it’s warped, broken or outdated, consider replacing it.
Add Landscape Lighting
Low-voltage landscape lighting, when placed strategically, can highlight your yard’s best features. It also improves the safety and security of your property. You can place a spotlight facing an ornate tree or unique architectural feature, as well as place some along your walkways so guests can safety navigate to and from your home.
Replace the Mailbox
One nice way to make your mark on your new home is to replace the mailbox. Whether it’s located curbside or it’s mounted to your home, choose a color and finish that complements the paint and trim of your house. You may want to take things a step further and add colorful flowers around it, as well as personalized vinyl decals for your address and house number.
Spruce Up Foundation Plantings and Flower Beds
No matter how pretty your flower beds and shrubs look when you first plant them, you have to keep up with maintenance to ensure they stay beautiful all year long. Regularly pull weeds, trim shrubs and add mulch as needed for a well-manicured look. Your neighbors will thank you!
Give Your Driveway a Makeover
If your asphalt or concrete driveway is lined with cracks and weeds, seal the cracks and pull all weeds. If your driveway is pitted, cracked and riddled with pot holes, consider having it repaved before you move in. You could also add pavers along the sides of the driveway for a visual point of interest.
There are many ways to improve the curb appeal of your new home. We hope you found these tips helpful!
Contact Olde World Movers
If you’re ready to make the move to your new home in Fort Worth, get a free moving estimate online from the team at Olde World Movers. Please contact us to book your moving appointment today!
