5 Budget-Friendly Ideas to Add Curb Appeal

We all know the importance of making a first impression and nothing makes a better first impression than a home with great curb appeal.

But where do you start?

How do you get the most bang for your buck?

Take it from me, an avid DIY-er and handyman, the suggestions below are proven budget-friendly ways to boost your home's curb appeal and create value quickly without breaking the bank!

Tip #1 - Channel your inner Mary Poppins

A clean exterior has the biggest impact on your curb appeal because it allows the home's exterior features to shine. A clean exterior shows pride of ownership and that the home is well-maintained. And, best of all, cleaning costs next to nothing!

Wash windows and screens. Clear cobwebs from corners, light fixtures, utility boxes and systems. Clear gutters/eavestroughs of debris. Pick up fallen branches, litter, and any items that do not belong outside your home. Pressure wash decks, patios, driveways and walkways.

I know cleaning isn't the most glamourous item on this list, but it is number one for a reason.

Tip #2 - Grow a green thumb

A well maintained yard is and integral part of a clean exterior, second only to cleaning in importance and low cost.

Weed the lawn, garden beds, and walkways. Trim low hanging branches near walkways and driveways, and ones that obstruct an attractive view or are touching structures. Mow grass and rake leaves everywhere including side yards and back alleys. Fill plant and flower beds with a few inches of mulch.

"It takes 500 small details to add up to one favorable impression." – Cary Grant

Tip #3 - Light, letters and numbers

Although they seem small and insignificant, nothing dates a home more than its mailbox, address numbers and light fixtures. They date a home on a glance.

In fact, light fixtures, mailboxes and address numbers set the tone for the home as much as any other detail and can become incredibly unique. Whether custom pieces ordered from Etsy, or a quick pick from the clearance aisle at the local home improvement store, updating, and harmonizing, these small but significant items can pull together your home's exterior at a minimal cost.

Tip #4 - Paint it black

Of course, it doesn't have to be black, but a fresh coat of paint on the front door and/or garage can boost curb appeal immediately.

Even if you're happy with your current color scheme, a fresh coat of paint in a more vibrant color in the same shade have a significant positive impact. If your home is lacking cohesiveness or personality, use the front door or garage door color like an accent pillow to pull it all together. A tremendous improvement for under $80.

Tip #5 - Keep up with the Joneses

Before you commit time and money to any other random curb appeal suggestions that have not been customized for you, your needs or your budget, take a walk.

Sometimes the best inspiration comes from walking around your neighbourhood and seeing what everyone else is doing. If you walk past someone's yard and think, "I love that", consider what elements about their yard you love and how you can incorporate them into your own. This strategy helps minimize costly trial and error and allows you to focus on what is most appealing to you from the curb.

Want a custom solution to maximize the value in your home?

I've been a home builder for 10 years, a realtor for 13 years, a homeowner for 15 years and DIY-ing home projects for 35! When assessing potential improvements to current or prospective homes, I apply my wealth of hands-on knowledge to provide my clients with a cost-benefit analysis to ensure they make a sound investment. I'm here to help, contact me today!

204-615-7333

stewart.sheach@kw.com