No one wants their home to look run down and old. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, 61% of home buyers are willing to pay more for a move-in-ready home. Homeowners are also not immune to the desire for their homes to have curb appeal. After all, it is one of the most significant investments that most people will make in their lives.
But what does it take to keep the exterior of your home looking brand new? Here are a few tips.
1. Keep up with the landscaping.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is one of the most important things you can do to keep your home looking sharp. Trim the hedges, pull the weeds, and mow the lawn regularly. Not only will this make your home look nicer, but it will also increase its value. Potential buyers will be impressed by the well-manicured lawn and landscaping when they drive by.
You should also make sure to fertilize your lawn regularly. This will give it the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and green. You can do this yourself or hire a professional. Some people also add mulch or rocks to their landscaping for an extra pop of color.
2. Repaint the exterior of your home.
This is one of the quickest and easiest ways to make your home look brand new. A fresh coat of paint can cover up a multitude of sins, from cracked siding to faded shutters. When choosing a color, stick to neutral tones that appeal to many potential buyers. You can always add a pop of color to your front door or shutters.
Remember to prep the surface before you start painting. This includes removing old paint, cleaning the surface, and repairing any damage. Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to start painting. Use a primer before you paint to help the new color adhere to the surface and last longer.
3. Keep your driveway and walkways in good condition.
Your driveway and walkways see a lot of traffic, so keeping them in good condition is essential. This means repairing any cracks or holes as soon as they appear. Driveway resurfacing is also a great way to add value to your home and make it look brand new. This involves removing the top layer of your driveway and adding a new one.
Some people also add pavers or concrete stenciling to their driveways and walkways. This is a great way to add extra personality to your home and make it stand out from the rest. You can also add lighting to your walkway for safety and curb appeal.
4. Upgrade your windows and doors.
Old, drafty windows and doors can make your home look dated. Replacing them with new ones is a great way to modernize your home and make it more energy-efficient. This is also a great way to add value to your home. When choosing new windows and doors, make sure to pick ones that complement the style of your home.
You can also add security features to your doors, such as deadbolts and peepholes. This will make your home more secure and give you peace of mind. When it comes to windows, adding window film is a great way to improve privacy and security. This is especially important if you live in a busy area or have nosy neighbors.
5. Pressure wash your home.
Over time, your home’s siding can become stained and dirty. This is especially true if you live in an area with many trees or pollen. Pressure washing your home is a great way to remove these stains and give your home a fresh, clean look.
You can pressure wash your home yourself or hire a professional. If you do it yourself, read the instructions carefully and use the right equipment. You don’t want to damage your home’s siding. If you hire a professional, ask for references and get a few estimates. This way, you can be sure you’re getting the best deal.
6. Get rid of any rust.
If your home has metal fixtures, such as gutters or railings, they may develop rust over time. This can make your home look old and neglected. You can use a wire brush or chemical rust remover to eliminate rust. Once the rust is gone, you can repaint or re-stain the metal to match the rest of your home.
If rust has eaten through the metal, you may need to replace it. This is especially true if the fixture is structural, such as a support beam. If this is the case, you should hire a professional to replace the fixture. You can usually remove minor rust yourself.
Following these tips will help you keep your home looking brand new. These are just a few ways to modernize your home and add value. With a little effort, you can make your home the envy of your neighborhood. Remember, first impressions are essential. So make sure your home looks its best from the street.
