Curb appeal isn't just for those selling a home, although it is a strategy used by real estate professionals to make a home more appealing to potential home buyers. It can also be incorporated in daily living to keep your home looking nice, making it the envy of the neighborhood. Here, we'll show you how to boost curb appeal on the cheap. These are all quick and easy ways to enhance the appearance of your home without spending a lot of money.
Curb appeal is defined by Merriam-Webster, "The visual attractiveness of a house as seen from the street." But don't think you have to spend a lot to make your home look nice! There are several cheap, or even free, things you can do to boost curb appeal on the cheap. Really!
Cheap Ways to Enhance Curb Appeal
New house numbers - Play up the colors and architectural elements of your home with a new set of house numbers. Choose a style that complements that of your home, and be sure to select a bold color that blends with the rest of the house. Total cost - $10 to $20.
Paint the front door - A quart of paint is all you'll need to add a fresh look to the outside of your home. Red is the most popular color to use on the front door as it symbolizes a welcoming home. Total cost - Under $25.
New hardware - A brand new door knocker and new doorknob will help to accent the front door and instantly boost curb appeal. Be sure to select hardware that features the same finish for a cohesive look. Total cost - Around $100 for both.
Pressure wash - Pressure wash the outside of the house and the area around it. Remove any signs of mold and mildew on siding, deck work, sidewalks, and the driveway. Total cost - Will depend on the type of pressure washer you buy. It will be more cost effective to buy instead of rent one.
New mailbox - Whether your mailbox is located at the street, or attached to the house itself, you can really enhance curb appeal with a new, freshly painted mailbox. Total cost - $25 to $50.
DIY Landscaping - Remove dead or wilting flowers or plants, weed flowerbeds, remove pine needles, and get rid of broken or flaking yard ornaments. Add a decorative element, such as gravel or rock, for an inexpensive touch to flowerbeds. Total cost - Under $75.
Inexpensive landscape lighting - Solar powered landscape lighting can be purchased for a few dollars a piece at places like Walmart and Kmart. They don't require any wiring, and can be pushed into place anywhere in the yard. Use them to light up walkways or accent a flowerbed. Total cost - $2 to $5 a piece.
8 Free Ways to Enhance Curb Appeal
1. Mow and rake the lawn to keep it looking neat.
2. Edge around sidewalks, driveways, and curbs.
3. Clean windows to a sparking shine.
4. Keep gutters free of debris.
5. Trim hedges and tree branches to keep the house visible from the street.
6. Declutter the yard and front porch. Keep toys, lawn tools, outdoor grills, and other clutter hidden out of sight.
7. Keep outdoor furniture clean and mildew free.
8. Move the trash and recycle bins out of sight.
More from Jennifer Wagner:
10 Ways to Refresh Your Cabinets
Complete Garage Makeover Guide
Simple Ways to Improve Home Safety
Source:
Personal knowledge
