August is National Curb Appeal Month, and as Realtors®, you know the first thing homebuyers see is typically the exterior of the home. What can sellers do to make sure their house looks as great on the outside as it does on the inside?
Meticulous detail to maintenance is a must-do, said Interiors by Anastasia designer and owner Anastasia Laudermilch
“Whether you live in the smallest home on the block, or the largest, a well-maintained property stands out among the rest. It’s rather simple, and not a big designer thing,” said Laudermilch. “You can enhance the exterior, once you have that down.”
Laudermilch also said shrubbery is important. She recommends putting evergreens in, as deciduous trees and shrubs lose their leaves in the fall and winter, lessening their curb appeal.
Doors, the front and garage namely, are also features that impact a home’s curb appeal. “Make sure the front door is fresh, new and updated,” she said. “A metal awning is relatively easy to add if a garage door is plain. People are going to see the garage doors, if you don’t want to replace them or add an awning, give them the look of a carriage house doors,” she suggested.
Grouping in threes is also a style tip Laudermilch recommends. “Get a big pot and put an evergreen shrub, and then do a smaller pot with flowers and greenery, and add a lantern or some sort of cement sculpture,” she said, to give the house some flair.
“Lighting is critical,” she added. “A home should feel warm and welcoming. Lighting is the jewelry of the space you have. Make sure the light is substantial and proportional to the home to make a statement, and set a tone.”
While adding color to the home can make change the look, Laudermilch said she generally recommends people stick with neutrals. “You want your house to stand out, but not so far that it is peculiar.”
Finally, don’t forget about the mailbox. “Keep the mailbox looking fresh,” she said.