Guide To Home Improvement - Five Curb Appeal Strategies

First impressions are important. In real estate, they can mean thousands of dollars on a home's market value, or the difference between a sale and a near-miss.

From new windows to greener grass, the exterior of a remodeled home is essential to its market value, but you don't need to undertake a major remodeling project to increase your home's curb appeal. Consider these strategies to improve the first impression people have of your home.

1. Revitalize Old House Siding
Repainting or replacing your house siding is a major remodeling project with big market value benefits. Cedar makes for a classic wood house siding, but most customers choose the durability of vinyl or fiber-cement house siding. Consider the cost and future maintenance of each house siding material.

2. Update Your Door
Repainting, replacing trim, or upgrading to a steel or strong wooden door can make a difference in your home's appearance and market value. Install new lock hardware to increase your security. Installing weatherstripping and sweeps at the door edges and base gives you a cleaner look with the benefit of a lower electric bill.

3. Install New Windows
Though the installation of new windows is a major remodeling project, that set of new windows can mean increased energy efficiency and security for your home. Increase your home's market value with new windows, and choose from insulated, double-paned, or glass block styles.

4. Add a Coat of Paint
A fresh paint job can revitalize any home. Choose a bold color for the home's trim and door, and brighten the exterior with white or another neutral color. Painting is a major remodeling project, and you may want to hire professionals with the equipment and experience to do a thorough job.

5. Pamper Your Lawn
Year-round lawn care is easy and inexpensive. Fertilize and re-seed your lawn in the fall, and water efficiently in the summer months. Keep trees with wide root systems away from your home to keep foundation cracks from lowering your home's market value. If you're interested in a major remodeling project, install an irrigation system.

Improving your home's curb appeal doesn't have to mean a major remodeling project. If you don't have the budget for a big change, take small steps to care for your home before you invest in a larger renovation.

About the Author
Amelia Gray is a teacher and freelance writer in San Marcos, TX. Amelia earned a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from Arizona State University.