Susan’s Home Safari

Curb Appeal

Landscaping can add 7-15 % *  to your home’s value. Taking time to improve your curb appeal can add value to your home in many ways. If you are trying to sell your home, having a great impression can draw a buyer into the yard to get them into the front door of your home. That’s really big first step in getting your home sold.  Another way it adds value is just for feeling good about entering your home with an inviting atmosphere while residing there.  We are just coming into spring when opportunities arise with nice weather to work in our yards. 

Get your entire family involved because when it’s done, it builds camaraderie with each other and pride in their home.  Here are some steps you can take right away that can dramatically improve your yards appearance that add a big impact.

• Clear away tree limbs and leaves that have fallen to the ground.
• Keep shrubs trimmed, add color with plants and keep the soil free of weeds with mulch or ground cover.
• Make sure walkways are in good condition and free of cracks.  Paint or stain concrete walks, steps and porches.
• Replace your porch light with a new fixture that complements your home’s style.
• A new mailbox and handsome street numbers will yield a great return on your investment (plus it helps emergency aid locate your home quicker too!).
• Give your front door a fresh coat of paint or stain. Paint the trim if you have a tight budget.
• Small garden areas should not feature too many different kinds of plants and materials. This will make your landscaping look cluttered- keep it simple and clean.
• Using an edger along paths or borders of flower beds usually makes the yard look clean.

Here are some other interesting notes that will solidify your reason for getting out in nature and doing these suggestions.  Mature landscaping can lower energy costs, dampen noise and help reduce air pollution.  Create an Outdoor Space.  Adding a deck or patio for entertaining or relaxing year round can be a great investment for your home.  A 2008  Cost vs. Value Report produced by Realtor® Magazine stated that installing a deck provides up to 81.8 % return on investment.  I’ve seen some really nice patio areas that have created an extended room outside of the home just off the dining area which were covered and nicely decorated with cozy outdoor furniture.  Run with your imagination or if you get stuck, call me! Since I’m a Realtor, I can definitely give you ideas and suggestions for improving that first impression. 
*(source-Gallup Organization)