Easy and budget-friendly ways to add curb appeal

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Curb appeal can set your home apart from others, and improving curb appeal doesn’t have to be expensive.

Curb appeal can help a home get noticed in a bustling real estate market. Curb appeal also can contribute to the aesthetics of a neighborhood for residents who plan to stay put, and many homeowners feel an attractive exterior is just as important as a comfortable interior.

Homeowners do not have to spend a fortune to improve the curb appeal of their homes. With these strategies, anyone’s home can take on a more appealing look.

Clean up

A messy, untamed front yard can detract from a perfectly acceptable home. Cleaning up your yard and home’s exterior is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to give the place a makeover. Cut back overgrown shrubs, plants and trees. Make sure the front door is clearly visible and that any walkways are edged and accessible. Store garbage pails behind a barrier and keep trash out of sight. Store children’s toys in the backyard rather than strewn across the front lawn. These simple steps can improve curb appeal instantly.

Spruce up the lawn

A well-manicured lawn can go a long way to making a home more appealing. If your thumb is anything but green, hire a professional lawn and garden service to help you establish a lush, green lawn.

Dress to impress

The entryway to a home is the first thing visitors will see. Be sure the front door and entryway are in good repair. A pop of color can’t hurt, either. If you do not like the idea of painting the door a vivid hue, dress it up with a colorful wreath or another decorative accent. Carry your interior design style to the outdoors as well. Welcoming accents, such as cushioned chairs or potted plants, also add curb appeal. Consider painting house numbers on a terra-cotta pot and filling it with plants. The pot will be decorative and functional.

Rely on symmetry

Symmetry is pleasing to the eye and easy to arrange. Use it to frame your entryway and throughout your property. Symmetrical use of lighting fixtures, plants, trees, and decorative items really can have an impact.

Don’t forget lighting

Outdoor lighting adds appeal and safety to a property. Use lighting to accent a special landscaping feature or to illuminate a walkway. Few people enjoy approaching a dark home, and outdoor lighting can ensure your property always is well-lit. Remember, curb appeal is applicable both day and night.

Improving on curb appeal can make a difference in how others view your home.

(MS)