Saturday, February 21, 2009

Curb Appeal

For those that are looking to sell their home, or even just improve the value of their current home, one thing that can help is curb appeal. Homeowners that take the time to improve their yard and landscape, as well as the outside of their house, often find a nice return on their money. A well-kept yard and house will usually sell better than a run-down property.

Starting with the simple things, it doesn’t take much time or money to make sure the garden is free of weeds and looking healthy. Inspecting and, if necessary, replacing gutters and downspouts will improve the home, as well as installing a new front door. Planning out and installing lighting can make a yard beautiful at night. These things, while rather small, will make a big impression on those looking at the house from the curb.

Other improvements, such as painting the house and trim, will take more time and labor. If the homeowner is willing to take the time, or can hire help to do it, adding or rebuilding a patio made out of a nice stone like travertine pavers, or a fireplace out of coral rocks would add much to a home. A homeowner could also build a walkway leading to the flowerbeds, made out of colored pebbles or other stone.

One more thing that can help would be to take pictures of the yard and then use them to see what needs to be improved. Sometimes taking a step back helps us see things we tend to overlook.

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