The Welcome Mat

Curb appeal

Curb appeal is the popular buzzword for how good your house and yard look from the street. If your house isn't selling, or if you're preparing to put it on the market, chances are your front yard could use a facelift.  
 

Homeowners address curb appeal by what they can do to make the outside of their home look its best. It is essential when selling the property—first impressions are very important and can sway potential buyers to have positive or negative reactions before entering the home. An inviting home encourages people to visit.

Curb appeal relates to landscaping, exterior color, masonry and entryway, including porches and doors, garage and driveway. Windows say a lot about a home, not only by their appearance and upkeep, but also about their efficiency.

Your house should be welcoming and its appeal easily visible at every angle from the street. Most importantly, it should make you feel proud when you drive up to it—feel something special about your house "that makes you smile when you come home," according to exterior designer Pamela Berstler. Exactly what that something is, depends on the home style and owner, since different people value different things. Curb appeal is a balance between what makes you happy and the style of your neighborhood.

Many sources tout the financial benefits of boosting curb appeal, citing a 1999 Clemson University study showing that consumers valued well-landscaped homes at 11% above the asking price. A 1999 Gallup survey found landscaping could add 7-15% to a home's value. A 2003 SmartMoney magazine article suggested that spending 5% of your home's value on landscaping could yield a return of 150% or more.

Having a plan is important, says landscape designer Jim Riley, because it means there will be consistency to the work you do, even if it’s done in phases. Not all improvements need to involve major and expensive work. "It can be as simple as painting the front door a different color—it’s a quick and easy thing you can do yourself."