The first thing that any visitor to your home will see is the outside of your house. Depending on how far back you are from the road they might glimpse your abode from the driveway or simply as they pull up. They say the kitchen is the most important part of your home and it certainly might be for living comfort. But, while the foundations are also important there is no doubt that from a perspective point of view, the outside, or curb appeal is the key ingredient. Before any visitor steps through your front door, they will have already evaluated your house and you! Here’s how to get the curb appeal just right:
Clad It
Keep your home low maintenance and make it look stunning! Exterior wall cladding can be placed around your entire home giving it a fresh, clean and crisp look. You can use vinyl, wood or a variety of other materials. But one thing is certain, you’re visitors will be impressed as they pull up. Your house will look significantly better than you can imagine!
The Entrance
Paint your door a bright color to make your home appear welcoming. Alternatively select a modern style door, providing it goes with the style of your house. The point is to make your front door and even your back one a feature. It will draw your visitor’s eye and impress them from the start.
Driveway
The driveway is also an important part of your curb appeal; especially if visitors need to park and then walk up it. It is best to ensure it looks good. You can achieve this by weeding it and repairing any small potholes or cracks. However, if your driveway is in need of a lot of work then it is time to consider re-covering it. The cheapest option is to cover the existing drive with gravel. However, tarmac, block paving, and even a patterned concrete drive can look significantly better.
Accessories
Add a small statue to each side of your front door. In general, it is best to keep some symmetry when viewing your accessories. For example, a lion on one side of the door looks a little peculiar. But one on each side creates a statement and increases curb appeal.
Lighting
There is little that gives more curb appeal than some lighting. You should put small lights at the entrance to the drive but they shouldn’t blind drivers. A few up-lighters or even lamp posts along the drive is good as well as up-lighters on the house and some down-lighters can transform your home. It will look very inviting whatever time of day your visitors arrive.
Planting
If you’re not green fingered then you might wish to add a few pots around the drive and in front of the house. These can be used to put flowers and help your home look appealing. They are also low maintenance! Window boxes can also work.
Clean
Finally, it is worth keeping your home looking clean and loved from the outside. Walls and windows are actually surprisingly easy to keep clean with a little water!
