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Curb appeal can be one of the most important details to be considered, whether looking to sell or simply wanting to maintain property value. As is mostly assumed, the term "curb appeal" means that a property looks attractive from the outside as it would be seen by driving past it. There are a number of things to consider to achieve great curb appeal and the pride that can comes with an outstanding landscaping appearance. Curb appeal refers not only to the condition of a residence as seen from the outside; it also reflects how well that residence fits into its surrounding neighborhood in terms of architecture, color scheme and general aesthetic impression. The general idea in creating the best curb appeal possible is to get potential buyers to stop and look, eventually prompting interest in the entire residence. First impressions, as with anything, can sometimes be difficult to change if that impression is not a good one. Having potential buyers drive past without even a pause could mean the property found lacking in some of the following elements. 1. Outside Features - Considering architecture and aesthetics, there is only so much that can be done with that; so long as the original builder kept to style standards, that should not be much of an issue. Ensure that things like porches, overhangs, windows/shutters, and fences are appropriate for the architectural style and if not, consider how that might be corrected. Additionally, a home should fit its surroundings and be appropriately equipped with the correct trims and colors for the specific style. Essentially, the structure needs to blend and yet stand out in its own way, which is the trick to actually achieving that attraction. 2. Condition - Besides style and conformity to surrounding homes, condition definitely has a high priority in this list. The overall condition as well as how comfortable the home appears from the road is an important consideration. Taking a look from across the street, or even getting the opinion of a friend or neighbor, is a good way to test this feature. Comments that lean toward the negative should be an alert that the residence or property needs improvement before it will achieve good curb appeal. 3. Maintenance - It should go without saying that the very basics of creating curb appeal are to keep the building and its surroundings neat, clean and in good repair. Yards should always be trimmed and well mowed; beds or plantings should be tended and healthy. Things like mailboxes should not only be in good condition but also of a style and trim that matches the house. Trash cans and yard equipment should be kept out of sight as well and any damage caused by pets should be corrected. 4. Entry - Moving beyond the grounds, the entry needs to be as welcoming as possible. New paint, new or cleaned hardware, and visible house numbers will do wonders. Overhangs should look structurally sound with no sagging. Make sure the front door is in excellent condition and, if it will match the architectural style, a fresh coat of contrasting paint can be very attention-getting for a front entry. A door-hanging appropriate for the season is a nice touch as well. 5. Other Features - Gutters and down-spouts should be maintained and in good condition, as should walkways and porch steps - free from cracks or missing pieces. Hanging flowerpots around the entryway can add to pleasant surroundings only when kept in good condition. Windows should be clean, both outside and in, and shutters if not the molded type that have the color embedded should get new paint. Of course, the exterior of the house should be in good condition, whether that means a new coat of paint or stain, or repairing siding or shingles. While these are just a few main ideas in creating curb appeal, they can be used as a starting point to improve that first impression a residence makes on others. Whether looking for an edge in a competitive real estate market or simply looking to create an inviting, compliment-worthy environment, efforts to improve curb appeal are a great way to achieve all of that! C. Michael Hunter is an expert in custom home building. To find out more about College Station Builders, go to the main website at: http://www.cgmhomes.com/.
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