homeowners don't have to lift a finger, their plants thrive, and their home is loaded with curb appeal." Once you have your lawn and landscape addressed, there are several other ways to enhance curb appeal. One of the often top-rated curb appeal upgrades is garage doors. Many new ones have horizontal windows and black hinges which add natural daylight inside and an attractive detail in a large, usually white, space. Other ways to boost curb appeal and enjoy driving up to the house yourselves are listed below, just in time to be incorporated into your spring cleaning routine. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 20
sweep cobwebs and loose dirt check gutters and drains for drainage and damage replace house numbers with classy, large ones touch up or paint anew the trim, porch railings, etc. stain decks and natural wood surfaces put up hanging baskets arrange furniture or accent pieces on porch or steps power wash everything kill mold and mildew add or replace a flag or banner fill cracks in driveway and seal put up a window box or two clean windows and check how window treatments look from outside install new mailbox add matching porch and garage light fixtures paint the front door buy new door knocker or hardware or polish what's there remove branches close to roof or siding check or install lightscaping along walkways neatly edge sidewalks and driveway NRV MAGAZINE
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put away toys, bicycles, etc. add color accents with a chair, flowers, pot, bench keep fences in good repair, stain or paint re-point bricks which have lost mortar replace any cracked glass wash and inspect shutters check foundation clean up after pets store trash cans, RVs, boats out of sight or off property
If you are planning to sell, remember that many buyers cannot see potential, and others are not interested in purchasing potential. The offer price goes down with every little thing, and they are on the lookout for small stuff to chip away at the price. On the other hand, not only will you enjoy the property more yourselves, but these are teaching moments for children and grandchildren, who can help, in maintaining things of value, and one's home is usually the most valuable asset in a lifetime. Back to Nature Curb Appeal Tips: Add color to your landscape by planting annuals in the spring and fall Start with a good plant design for textures and seasonal color all year Strategically place landscape lighting for ambiance and to cast shadows Consider a turf care package paired with routine mowing Planning and maintenance consistency are key components of curb appeal
March/Apri l
2019