Make it Look Spiffy : Creating Curb Appeal

Get some tips on what you can do to improve the look and visual appeal of your home.

by Debbie Rogers,
owner of Paradise Porch

Published: February 10, 2003

It's spring in the Northern Hemisphere and many of you are thinking about getting outside and sprucing up your outdoor spaces. Is this the year you shoot for that civic beautification award? Or are you gearing up to sell your home as summer approaches? Either way, you'll want to increase your "curb appeal" – that intangible, subjective quality that attracts award judges or prospective house buyers. Both look at the whole outside package: the house, garden, driveway, and paths.

• First, of course, make sure everything out there is clean. Pick up any clutter that's accumulated over the winter. Rake up those dead leaves; trim any tress, shrubs or hedges that have become overgrown or untidy. Be sure the lawn is kept neatly trimmed.

• If the brick or vinyl siding is wearing a few years worth of accumulated city grit, consider power washing. It's relatively inexpensive and makes a major difference.

• Once the exterior walls are clean, repaint the trim – or even just the front door.

• When choosing paint colors, consider both the color schemes of the exterior facade and the interior room to which the outdoor space leads.

• Co-ordinate the entire exterior, including your porches and decks, the garage and any sheds or other outbuildings.

• Choose only two or three colors for the entire exterior scheme or the look will be too busy.

• A deep color can be used effectively on the front door and any shutters.

• Make the glass in any exterior doors and windows shine! Wash and rehang the curtains. You may need to replace the entire front door – or perhaps just add an attractive screen or storm door that replaces an outdated one. If you hang a wreath, be sure that it's fresh looking and not less than 24" in diameter. As an alternative, consider a polished brass doorknocker.

• Some sort of greenery or flowers is essential to add colorand depth to your outdoor space. Try a collection of potted bulbs in bright colors or some hardy ivy spilling from a window box. If the nights are below freezing where you are, bring the pots inside at night.

• Although you may not be ready to set up all of your outdoor furniture, do put out one of two pieces to create an intimate conversation or reading area. Invest in fresh new cushions or cushion covers. Lay a cheerful rag rug in the area.

• Nearer to the front door, be sure the house numbers are clean and clearly visible from the street. If needed, get shiny new brass digits or a pretty ceramic number plaque.

• Mailboxes take a lot of wear and tear and, because they are usually inexpensive, need to be replaced regularly. Be sure yours is attractive and clean. Can you find one that matches your decor or the house numbers?

• Once weather permits, be sure your gardens have color – either from flowering bulbs or perennials, or a mass planting of cheery annuals. But remember the garden is only part of the package.

Whether trying to win over the civic award judges or the neighbors, use your outdoor space as part of the overall appeal of your home. Lay out a new welcome mat and enjoy the compliments. Happy Spring!