Are you a new homeowner looking to add some curb appeal to your property? Do you want to ensure those projects will add to your home value as well? If so, you’ve come to the right place because we have some simple tips for updating the appeal of your home while increasing the overall value too, starting with your landscaping and ending with the exterior of your home.
How to Spruce Up Your Lawn and Garden
Decide on a Landscaping Budget
When your main objective is adding value to a home, you need to start every improvement project with a detailed budget. This will keep any renovation or project from incurring unexpected expenses that can reduce your overall return on investment. If it’s possible, you may want to include the cost of a pro gardening service into your overall budget, especially if you don’t have experience with landscaping or gardening yourself. Having expert advice on planning, planting, and weeding is well worth the extra cost, and you can get some professional tips to help maintain the health of your new plants. If you’re planning on tackling major projects like flattening a driveway or removing trees, it’s a good idea to hire a contractor so the work is done properly. Also a dependable trucking company like E R Hayes Trucking can be invaluable when it comes to removing any debris or branches safely without causing damage to your home.
Research Local Zones and Climate
If you hire a pro, they should be able to tell you which planting zone your area falls in, so that you know exactly which plants can grow and thrive there. This is especially helpful information for home gardeners who are a little green themselves since recommended flowers, trees, and bushes will require the least amount of effort to maintain. Your planting zone should clue you in to the local climate, too, but it never hurts to know how weather patterns impact landscaping.
Select Green Lawn and Garden Options
If you want the most ROI on your landscaping investment, you need to keep maintenance costs low. That means making eco-friendly choices that are just as good for the environment as they are for your household budget. Opt for drought-tolerant plants that will still add appeal to your front yard, and consider using eco-friendly materials for other elements, or request that your professional gardener use recycled or green materials when planning your new garden.
How to Add Curb Appeal to Your House
Update the Exterior, Front Door, and Mailbox
Aside from your landscaping, the front of your home is what really adds or subtracts from curb appeal. For instance, decide whether your front door could use a new paint job, or just replace it if needed. Don’t overlook the mailbox, either, and consider buying a new one if yours is damaged. If you’re going to repaint the exterior of your home, make sure you choose paint colors that are popular with homebuyers. For instance, a blue door or greige exterior can each increase home value by over $1,500, in addition to giving your home some updated curb appeal.
Have Exterior Features Professionally Cleaned
If you want to increase your property value and curb appeal without painting the exterior of your home, you need to make sure it’s kept clean. Pressure washing the outside of your home is the fastest and most cost-effective way to brighten things up and get rid of any dust, dirt, or grime that makes the front of your home look dull. You can easily DIY this project, but be sure to ask for tips and advice from the rental company to avoid property damage or personal injury.
Clean, Repair and/or Replace the Home’s Roof
There are quite a few home projects that will increase both curb appeal and value, but many homeowners overlook the benefit of having a functional and clean roof. Your roof is just as visible as your lawn, gardens, and front door, and they can be expensive to replace. Start by cleaning out any gutters and cleaning debris off the roof. Then, look for signs of damage, like missing shingles or signs that a new roof is needed, especially if you plan on selling soon. Adding more value and curb appeal to your property can be as simple as completing one, or all, of the projects above. If you plan on listing your home soon, also connect with a local realtor who can advise you as to the curb appeal updates you should focus on first to maximize your profit and help your home sell faster.
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