Spring’s on its way and so are those long evenings when you’ll be itching to entertain. But, will your front yard be as inviting as your menu? Great curb appeal is not just inviting to your guests, it can make the difference to whether your home sells when you get around to doing so.

However, figuring out how to beautify your front yard can be an intimidating task for some people. Here are a few general guidelines that will boost your confidence when adding curb appeal.

1. Determine a budget and stick to it. This will help you to focus on what really needs to be done rather than focusing on a pie-in-the-sky wish list. With some of the tips here, you can enhance the front of your home for just a couple hundred dollars.

2. Take a few minutes to stand in front of your house. Look all around to determine which areas need the most help. While you’re at it, glance around at your neighbors’ homes for curb appeal ideas as well.

3. Consider the style of your home when choosing paint colors. Some colors are more appropriate for Victorian homes, for instance, and not for modern homes. Stay away from garish colors such as lime green or bright orange, especially if you’re planning on selling in the near future.

4. If you’re computer savvy, do a digital makeover first. Take a picture of the front of your home and scan it into your computer. Using a photography software program, experiment with things like different colors on the door, railings and window trims; plants in specific areas; and address numbers. You’ll get an idea of whether or not your curb appeal plans will have the effect you want.

5. If you’re on a tight budget, focus on the big three: driveway (or walkway), door and lawn. You’ll be able to make the biggest impact for your money. If your driveway borders on shabby,

6. Find out from family, friends and neighbors if you can borrow pots, container plants, porch furniture or lawn lamps. This helps to keep your budget in check.

7. Don’t forget about small details, which can have big impact. Get rid of old, worn-out address numbers. You can spruce them up with paint, or add some jazzy ones easily found at your local hardware store.

Brighten dated door knockers with paint, and lay a tufted, attractive mat or rug at your front door. Wreaths in any season are also very inviting – whether it’s a berry wreath in summer, or an autumn leaf one in fall. Finally, if there’s a table on your patio or veranda, add a pot of vibrant flowers.

8. Ask for help. If your father is a whiz in the wood shop ask him to build a patio bench for you, or to replace worn-out wood columns. If your sister is renowned for her green thumb, invite her over for a front yard planting party. If you’ve never tried to increase your home’s curb appeal before, you can always do with a little extra help.

With these simple steps, adding curb appeal will take less time and money, while creating the biggest impact.

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Category: Home Management
Keywords: curb appeal, adding curb appeal,home,garden, renovation,lawn care,house