Curb appeal can make the difference between whether your home sells or stays on the market for years. People who don’t like what they see when they drive past your home aren’t going to want to stop in and check out the property.
These are the top things to keep in mind and why curb appeal matters!
1. Consider Exterior Lighting
Exterior lighting is one of the best places to start when planning the outside of your home. After all, you’re going to be putting in a lot of work, so it’s obvious that you’ll want to show that off! Exterior lighting helps illuminate any areas that you want to show off the most while also adding a touch of security.
Nobody wants to break into a house that’s under a spotlight.
Another great reason to consider adding exterior light is that it helps guests find your home at night, which is awesome if you plan on hosting parties! Nobody wants to stand around in the dark. Show them where your property is, and then use the lights to keep them partying all night long!
2. Put Moisture In Its Place
Moisture is a dangerous thing to touch any home. Not only can it rot wood, it can cause stone and concrete to crack and can ruin siding, soil, and even insulation. It’s vital that you do everything you can to stop moisture from standing and flooding your property.
To invest in this, research in-ground drainage (make sure to add drainage covers so it doesn’t clog!) and look up how to waterproof under a deck that’s similar to yours. Pay attention to how much and where water gathers on your land, and work to stop it in its tracks.
3. Plan Ahead for Maintenance
Maintenance is something you can’t avoid. Whether this is your first property and you’re unused to maintenance, or you’ve had this home for years and have fallen behind, it’s something you need to keep in mind.
When planning your home’s exterior, think about what areas will need the most maintenance. Your deck will have to be touched up twice a year, and you’ll need to keep an eye on any cracks in cement or concrete.
4. Understand the Right Tools
There are some tools that will make your job easier, but if you’re DIY-ing this, it’s important that you know all of the tools you have at hand. From the most complicated machinery to understanding the screws vs. nails for deck spaces debate, get to know every device you’re working with. When DIY-ing, it’s important to research heavily before you start anything.
5. DIY Your Problems Away
Speaking of DIY, use it as your secret weapon! DIY gives you the opportunity to invest as much time as you can into the project without having to worry about the hours you’ll be paying a contractor. This can save you untold amounts of money as long as you know what you’re doing.
6. Use Native Plantlife
Water is getting more expensive, and the climate is rapidly shifting. Unless you want to have to water the same flowers twice a day every day for as long as you own your home, it’s time to consider putting in native plants.
Plants that are from the climate you live in will stay stronger, grow longer, and can handle fewer watering and pruning sessions. This gives you the freedom to fully enjoy your lawn while also ensuring you don’t have to struggle with plants that don’t want to be in the environment you planted them in.
7. Consider if Turf is For You
Live grass is beautiful and has been a large part of home iconography within the last 100 years, but it’s not for everyone. If you live somewhere hot and dry, or you simply don’t have the time or energy to deal with chasing a green and clean lawn, it could be time to stop and look at whether artificial turf is the answer to your problem.
Artificial turf is a beautiful product that will cut hours out of your maintenance every week and will save you hundreds a year on water. Remember to look into whether your HOA allows it or not!
8. Boost Your Deck’s Curb Appeal
Your deck is a space that should be comfortable and welcoming, so it’s vital that you plan a luxurious and incredible space for entertaining. From sturdy deck railing to keep people safe to adding an exterior kitchen for entertaining, there are dozens of ways to make this part of your home shine.
Remember to use only stains and sealants that are made for this part of your property. Using a dye that’s meant for indoor furniture or forgetting to seal it will cost you the entire deck.
Your Curb Appeal Shapes How Everyone Experiences Your Property
Instead of hoping a mowed lawn and clear path are enough, it’s time to make your home’s exterior a space people will be excited to see. Consider working with Design Scapes Inc. and create a one-of-a-kind property!
