Creating a welcoming and well-kept appearance to the entrance of your home is the most significant part of pride in home ownership. Not only is it the first point of entry that is experienced by visitors and prospective buyers, it is the one area that is experienced by homeowners on a daily basis.
Curb appeal means being able to get a first impression of a home by simply driving by, without even walking to the entrance. If it is not well kept, or has not visual interest on a first impression, the likelihood creating further interest in the home is diminished.
Experts in the real estate industry estimate that curb appeal is the number one investment technique in terms of increasing the value of a home. A professional upgrading of a front yard can increase the value of a house by 7%, or $42,000 on a $600,000 house. (Brenda McMillan, National Post, August 30, 2013; Brian Burton, www.landscapeontario.com)
Below are several recommendations I would like to offer for any reader that is interested in re-selling their home and looking for ways to increase value and curb appeal.
Driveway and main access
Repave the driveway with concrete pavers or asphalt to eliminate ruts and trip hazards. At minimum, provide a level walkway that is a minimum of four feet wide with any additional steps at an even 6-inch rise per step. Eliminate any lifting or loose patio stones or other trip hazards. If possible create wider walkways that are more inviting. Replace the front door with a modern, attractive new door. At minimum, a fresh painting with a neutral colour will clear any dull appearances, smudge marks and chip marks. Always make sure the glass is well washed and clear of dirt or smudges.
Planting
If your yard does not have any vegetation, consider planting at least one deciduous tree for shade. Choose a variety that is scaled to your home’s size and avoid large coniferous trees on small lots. Consult with a professional for making this choice and for installation.
Flowering shrubs can offer seasonal interest with spring flowers and fall leaf colour, and for the most part require little pruning;
Adding accent perennials or annuals for seasonal interest and colour is a must for providing a focal point upon entering the main walkway. Consider purchasing a large urn and inserting potted perennials and annuals can be viewed upon the approach to the main entrance.
Lawn
A poorly managed lawn reflects badly on first impressions. If you have not taken time to manage your lawn area in the front yard, what have you also neglected inside your home? Four main grooming tips that I recommend you follow in the spring include:
- Dethatching – removes the dead organic material chocking out new growth and enabling pests.;
- Aerating – remediates the root zone. An aerator or de-thatcher can be rented at most equipment rental shops
- Top-dressing and reseeding after completing the first two management techniques above provides new growth for the upcoming season. Filling in bare sections only will give a patchwork of growth, rather than homogeneous appearance;
- Edging – keep the edges well trimmed along the driveway, and all curbs.
Remember, curb appeal is all about first impressions! Prospective buyers should be intrigued and excited about your home by simply driving by, not turned off and scared away. Follow the above guidelines for improving your curb appeal.
— John C. Duthie, Master Gardener, Guelph Wellington