Summer Home Improvement Projects to Increase Your Curb Appeal

Warmer, dryer, longer days have us spending more time outdoors and focussing on those summer home improvement projects. When we think of home improvement projects, we usually think of things like updating the kitchen or bathroom, new flooring and installing a new deck. These are, of course, important upgrades that can add value to your home, but they can’t always be done quickly or on the cheap. However, if you have the time and don’t mind getting a little dirty, there are a lot of modest enhancements you can make this summer that will improve your home’s appearance.

There’s no doubt curb appeal plays an important role in home sale prices! Even if you’re not considering selling your home right now, there’s no harm in elevating the attractiveness of your home for a higher perceived value. If your home doesn’t stand out from the rest you can expect it to be worth a lot less when the time comes to sell, so start setting the bar high now. Here are some top summer home improvement projects to get you started.

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING BASICS

Just as on the inside of your home, keeping your exterior space clean and tidy makes a big difference and should be included in part of your routine cleaning and maintenance schedule. Dirt, moss, and algae (a recurring problem thanks to our warm and wet PNW winters) can be cleaned away with a pressure washer; a quick and eco-friendly way to dramatically improve the appearance of your home. Unlike the inside of your home however, the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ rule doesn’t always apply to your exterior space. Everybody sees it, from your neighbours to nosy passers by. So, make sure your curb appeal gets attention for all the right reasons. And no, you don’t have to sacrifice your privacy. Ensure that your fences, gates, hedges, and shrubbery are in tip top condition. 

FRONT ENTRANCE MAKEOVER

While guests are waiting at your front door they are making a first impression of what they might expect from the rest of your home. A fresh coat of paint may be all you need to make it appear fresh and new. Otherwise a new front door can make a world of difference. Replace old hardware (door bell, numbers, etc). Add some warm and inviting decor where space allows such as planters or welcome mats. If you are selling, however, be mindful to ensure the area is  de-personalized and free from clutter. A bright exterior is attractive where a darkly lit one can look dingy. No wiring? Place solar fixtures next to a walking path or driveway. It is relatively inexpensive and makes a huge impact on your home’s curb appeal while also providing safety and security.

GARAGE, DRIVEWAY AND/OR PARKING AREA

Many homes are designed where the garage door is the focal point in the front of the home. Beautiful garage doors will make a great first impression. If your garage door has seen better days, consider replacing it with an updated style. In either case, you can power wash the driveway, de-weed, and fill in any cracks or holes. 

GARDEN AND LANDSCAPING

Make sure that your landscape compliments your home instead of concealing it. Trim back bushes, shrubs and trees so your entry is open and inviting. If you have a garden, make sure it is weeded and planted. Consider adding a container garden if your thumb isn’t quite so green. Container gardens add a welcoming feel and colourful curb appeal to any home exterior – quickly and affordably. You can buy ready-made containers from garden centers or create your own with your favourite plants. Installing a sprinkler system is a great investment, and one that will save you money in the long run. On average, homeowners use 50% more water than necessary using a hose to water their lawns. This increases your hydro bill and may even cause long term damage from over watering.

EXTERIOR FACELIFT

This is a more costly suggestion but one that will have the most dramatic results. An exterior facelift – new paint, siding, roofing or trim details on the whole house – will automatically transform the look of a home. Maintenance of the exterior surface is the surest way to keep your house and its curb appeal looking its best. This includes making sure the roof is in good repair, the siding, stucco or brick looks its best, and the gutters aren’t old and rusty. Replace old gutters and downspouts (something a home inspection will always highlight). Fixing and painting window trim (and of course replacing any old windows) can make a big difference. 

IN SUMMER-Y

Curb appeal is very important, especially when selling your home. Buyers will judge your home based on that initial first impression. Since summer is all about being outdoors, create an inviting outdoor living space if possible. Stand at the curb in front of your home and look at it with a critical eye. Try to see your home as potential buyers will when they arrive for the very first time.

You don’t have to update everything under the sun — a few strategic changes will make a huge difference in the look of your home. Curb appeal can help you attract more buyers and might even fetch a better price or a higher appraisal, so do what you can to make the front of your home radiant.

If you’d like more information and tips on how to prepare your home for market then check out some of these resources:

Home Staging Mistakes to Sell Your Home Faster > READ NOW

Getting Ready For a Showing or Open House > READ NOW