Whether you are getting ready to sell or just moved into your new home you are probably looking for ways to give your home some personality. Updates can be expensive, but even if you have a small budget there are ways to enhance the curb appeal.
Paint the front door
A new door color creates a focal point and it allows you to add your personality. But if you have an old generic door you may want to replace it with one that has unique features. Or add a side window if you have room.
Front door replacement is a good investment because it ranks third in cost recuperation according to Remodeling Magazine. You might also consider upgrading your garage door. There are lots of options for personalizing your garage door. They have kits your can buy to add details like carriage door hardware. Or just changing the color can make your home look completely unique.
Choose a paint scheme with three colors
According to Houzz.com you should use three colors in your exterior scheme because it is more pleasing to the eye. The field color should dominate; the accent color which makes the doors, shutters and other smaller areas pop; and the trim color, for the window and door trim, roof edging, railings and other trim-work. Always remember to paint the downspouts the same color as the body of you home.
Shutters and window boxes
You also might want to consider adding shutters or window boxes because it will add dimension to your home. But, if you decide to add shutters be sure to research the appropriate style of shutter for the style of your home. You may not find them at a big box store, so check out your local suppliers or even online. Don’t forget to check out vinyl shutters for a low-maintenance option and that goes for window boxes as well.
Upgrade your lighting
Also consider replacing those generic, too small, front lights or the clunky motion detector flood lights, with something more fitting to the style of your home. Because there are plenty of styles to choose from these days with built-in motion detection, or dusk to dawn features, you don’t need those old ugly light fixtures any more. This is a very cost-effective way to update your curb appeal.
Plant some color
Replacing some of the old overgrown shrubs with drought tolerant, low maintenance options is certainly the current trend. This is also a good way to make your house stand out from your neighbor’s. But don’t forget to add some color when you replant, there are many low maintenance shrub options that will add color. My husband and I recently update our front landscaping and eliminated all the lawn! We selected a wonderful variety of low maintenance, drought tolerant shrubs and flowers. Our yard now stands out in the neighborhood, in a good way! We did use a landscape architect to help us come up with the basic plan and feel it was money well spent. But if you are creative, just go for it!
So…if you are working with a tight budget you can still make plenty of changes to the curb appeal of your home, especially if you aren’t afraid to get your hands dirty!
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