10 Great Ways to Add Curb Appeal

Some tips and tricks to creating a great first impression on potential buyers:

1. Create Symmetry: Symmetrical compositions of light fixtures or front door accents are easiest to arrange and most pleasing to the eye. For spring try potted plants on either side using flowers or plants that best match your existing landscaping.

2. Replace Old Hardware: House numbers, the front door lockset, a wall mounted mailbox, and overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home. Try oil-bronzed units for traditional homes and brushed nickel on more contemporary homes.

3. Dress Up Your Front Door: Give your home a burst of color by painting your front door a coordinating color, or swap out your normal front door for a custom wood door! Your entry should also match your home's interior so add a wreath or swag that reflects your decor.

4. Outdoor Lighting: Landscaping lighting can make a huge impact on your home's curb appeal. Accent trees, or illuminate a walking path to the home. You can even use solar lighting as a quick way to gain a little extra light, and not mess with wires and fixtures!

5. Add Shutters or an Accent Trim: both shutters and trim add a welcoming element of beauty to your home.

6. Replace Gutters and Downspouts: Replace older gutter systems that might have peeling paint, rust spots, or worse with newer snap-fit vinyl systems that go together with few tools and require no painting! Looking for an even better quality gutter system? Copper systems convey an unmistakable look of quality.

7. Dress Up Your Driveway: Upgrade your driveway without completely redoing it! Repair any cracks or stains, then dress it up by staining the concrete or affixing flagstones. Or widen with flare by adding brick or pavers to the sides!

8. Upgrade Your Railings: Porch railings can deteriorate rapidly, if your railings are past their prime be sure to replace them with something that fits in with the rest of your exterior decor.

9. Renew Paint, Siding, or Trim: This exterior facelift automatically transforms the look of your home! Make sure your home's paint or siding is in tip top shape!

10. Create a New Planting Bed: Add contrast and color by adding a new planting bed! Good locations for this would be the front corners of your yard, along driveways or walkways, and immediately in front of your home. Be sure to choose features that will complement your homes exterior!

For more tips and tricks visit www.betterhomesandgardens.com for home improvement ideas and more ways to enhance your homes curb appeal!