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l Spring 2015
ing your front door, like increasing
size or installing a portal window
will also add value and interest to
the home. Bigger doors are more
appealing overall because they
offer up an idea of the grandeur
within.
As for hardware, everything
should match. Choose a mailbox
that matches the trimming of your
home and compliment that with
corresponding house numbers and
outdoor light fixtures. For symme-
·
Plant low-growing, brightly colored flowers around your
mailbox and add edgings around them as well to match
your lawn's landscaping pattern and tie it all together.
·
Pressure-washing your driveway, walkway, and porch/
doorstep will instantly boost face-value and curb appeal
with a clean, new look.
·
Color-coordinate. Choose flowering plants that are going to
compliment the layout of your landscape and trimmings,
such as bright yellow against gray, or lavender against brick
or tan siding.
·
Less is more, meaning don't overplant. You don't want your
landscape looking crowded or too busy, as this can indicate
(and will ultimately mean) more work and higher mainte-
nance.
·
Line your driveway for a manicured look, such as the addi-
tion of walkway lighting ­ solar or battery powered works
just fine ­ and make sure these fixtures match your other
hardware as well.
·
If you have porch furniture or a porch swing, the addition
of throw pillows that match the colors of your flower choic-
es will not only tie the look together, but will make the face
of the house inviting and comfortable.
Bring the Spring-Cleaning
Outside
Wash your house. You can do
it yourself by renting or buying
equipment, or hire a team, but
washing the outside of your home
will add instant value if you're
trying to sell, and will boost your
curb appeal significantly overall.
Warm water and diluted dish de-
tergent will be gentle enough for
your paint, but harsh enough to
wash away all the grease and dirt.
Consider invested in new gutters,
such as copper ones that will add
shine and glamour to your home's
appearance. If you already have
decent gutters, you can wash them
as well and perhaps repaint them
to match your trim for a composed
finish. Don't forget to wash out-
door furniture and light fixtures
as well. The smallest details when
cleaned and freshened up will pro-
vide a bigger end result than you'd
think.
Add Color Contrasting
Elements and Focus on
Symmetry
Your front entry is the first thing
people are going notice, and if
things are scattered about and
not coordinated with one anoth-
er, you're not really utilizing the
power of the first impression. Go
for a neutral color with a com-
plementary trim, such as a yel-
low or ivory exterior with gray
accents. The neutral background
will provide excellent foundation
for eye-popping bits of color that
will come from the spring flowers
you planted and accents, such as a
grand front door. Paint your door
a contrasting color that pops, such
as purple, red or black. Customiz-
try, add sconces on both sides of
the door, instead of just one porch
light. Complete the look with a few
green ferns or tall grass vases on
either side.
Install fencing or lattices for im-
mediate increase in value. If you're
trying to sell, fencing is an encour-
aged investment. Pathway lighting
to gates and through walkways
add a sense of security and safety
as well, making the home seem
more inviting.
Dress Up
Your House
Finishing Touches