The exterior of your house creates the first impression. When your home boasts a well-kept lawn, an inviting entrance, and unique architectural features, it can truly set itself apart from the rest.
Sometimes, we tend to concentrate mainly on the inside, overlooking the potential of the exterior. In the United States, sellers can achieve returns of 80% or more by focusing on curb appeal, as reported by Forbes. This is especially important in highly competitive real estate markets like Austin, Texas, where homes often receive an average of 2 offers and sell in about 53 days.
With the market favoring sellers, now is an ideal time to invest in your home’s exterior. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry; we’ve got some surefire ideas to kick things off. So, let’s get started without delay.
Prune Overgrown Trees
If you have tall and beautiful oak trees growing all over the place, or if some of their branches seem like they might fall, it’s a good idea to trim them. It might seem like extra work, but it’s important for keeping the outside of your home looking nice.
Trimming the trees has some benefits. For starters, it lets more air and sunlight into your yard and also helps protect your property during springtime storms in Austin. While it might be tempting to go the DIY way, trying to trim trees on your own can be dangerous. Climbing trees and using tools without the right knowledge can lead to accidents, injuries, or unintentional damage to your trees and property.
To make sure your trees stay safe and healthy and to keep everyone around you safe, too, it’s usually better to leave tree trimming to the experts. If you decide to get professional help, you can start by searching online for the keyword tree care Austin TX. You will get a lot of options; read what other customers have said in their reviews to get an idea of how good a service is. After you’ve narrowed down your picks, get in touch with each company to talk about what you need and get an estimate. This will help you make a smart decision that fits your needs and budget.
Consider Xeriscaping
In Austin’s hot and dry climate, maintaining lush green lawns can be quite a chore — not to mention the high water bills. That’s where xeriscaping comes in as a smart choice. It’s an eco-friendly landscaping approach that uses plants that can thrive with minimal watering. And the best part? It looks stunning.
Drought-tolerant plants like Agave, Texas Sage, Butterfly Weed, Lantana, and Red Yucca not only survive but also add beauty to your landscape. To enhance texture and dimension, you can also incorporate rocks, gravel, and mulch.
Brighten Your Outdoor Space
A dim and gloomy exterior can give your home an unwelcoming vibe, especially once the sun goes down. The good news is that you can easily turn your outdoor area into a warm and inviting place. Driveway and pathway lights provide a charming touch to your exteriors. For an elegant look, consider installing uplights on trees or wall sconces on either side of your entryway.
If you are a DIY enthusiast, you can give string lights a try; they create a magical ambiance and are budget-friendly. If you have a porch, adding outdoor wall lanterns can help illuminate the space.
Show Your Front Door Some TLC
Faded paint, chipped edges, and a rusty door handle won’t leave a good first impression. If you think your front door has seen better days, it’s time for a makeover. This simple update can make a big difference.
Begin by painting the door in a fresh color. Choose a shade that either matches or complements other features. For example, a black door goes well with dusty pink walls. Then, swap out the door handle and knocker for a modern one. Complete the look by adding a decorative wreath or planter to the entrance.
Give Your Home’s Exterior a Fresh Coat of Paint
The scorching Texas summer can be tough on your home’s outside look, and paint often takes the brunt of it. Over time, it loses its shine, fades, and may even start to chip. Experts recommend giving your home’s exterior a fresh paint job every five years. If it’s time for yours, it’s time to pick up those paint rollers.
Choose a paint that’s built to withstand Texas’s harsh sun, like oil-based or acrylic paint. Neutral shades like beige and cream are always a safe choice, but if you prefer bolder colors, go for it. There are no rules here!
Spruce Up Your Garden with Art
Garden art is a fun and creative way to boost your home’s curb appeal. It adds a unique touch to the exterior while showcasing your personal style. Garden art can encompass sculptures, fountains, birdhouses, or wind chimes.
You can even make your own garden art using recycled materials or things you find in nature, like rocks and branches. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Craft a mosaic stepping-stone pathway.
- Hang colorful glass bottles from tree branches.
- Use old tires to create a garden bed border.
- Fashion a birdbath from terracotta pots.
Give Your Front Porch a Makeover
Your front porch is the first thing visitors see, setting the tone for what’s inside. Sprucing it up is easy with these simple upgrades. Start by giving the porch floor and railings a fresh coat of paint or stain. Add potted plants or hanging baskets for a burst of color. Lay down an outdoor rug and some comfy seating, like wicker or rattan furniture. A small side table adds functionality.
Upgrade Your Windows
If your windows are always dirty or have chips or cracks, they need attention. You can clean them yourself with a vinegar and water solution if they are salvageable. But if not, consider installing new windows. This not only boosts curb appeal but also improves energy efficiency and natural lighting. Double or triple-pane windows are popular for insulation.
Enhance Hardscaping Features
Don’t overlook hardscaping elements when improving your home’s exterior. They add depth and interest to your landscape. Start by power washing your driveway for a clean look. Repair any cracks or chips in concrete or paving stones.
Focus on your walkway and patio next. Upgrade plain concrete pathways with stone or brick pavers. Adding flower beds or shrubs along the sides softens the appearance.
Wrapping Up…
Boosting curb appeal doesn’t have to be a struggle. With good planning and smart investments, you’ll see results faster than you think. For inspiration, browse home magazines and Pinterest, but don’t forget to add your personal touches — it’s your home!
We hope these tips help you create a more polished, attractive exterior that makes you proud to come home. Happy decorating!
