By Brooke Watton
Wondering what it takes for folks to drive by your house and think “Wow, that place is stunning?”
Want to give your home a little facelift to make it feel brand new again without breaking the bank?
Want to sell your home, but people keep driving by with no interest?
I’m Brooke Watton, the Legally Blonde Realtor in the Phoenix Valley, and I can help answer all those questions for you! As a third-generation realtor and former practicing attorney, I’ve seen it all. I’ve seen properties at their worst, when real repair is required. But sometimes, improving the home’s exterior is all it takes to make a home really sparkle again!
In addition to being a realtor, I’m also a wife, mother of two toddlers, and owner of a home that I want to feel inviting to all. Through experience, I’ve learned that feeling comfortable with a home really starts at the entrance. Something as simple as a nice welcome mat can instantly give a welcoming presence!
Not only do you want your exterior space to feel comfortable for your family and guests, but improving the curb appeal of your home can also make a significant difference in its overall appearance – and VALUE. If you’re looking to sell your house in the near future, the exterior appearance of a home is the first thing potential buyers and appraisers will see. A well-maintained and attractive exterior creates a positive first impression and can make a home more appealing.
While it's important to note that curb appeal alone may not substantially increase a home's value, it can certainly contribute to the overall perception of a property's worth, attract more buyers, and potentially justify a higher selling price.
From my experience, here are some tips to help enhance the curb appeal of your home:
1. Landscaping
This is the first thing one sees when pulling up to a home, so make it worth it! Invest time and effort in maintaining a well-kept and attractive front yard. Trim the grass, prune bushes and trees, and add colorful flowers and plants. Consider adding mulch or decorative rocks to garden beds for a polished look. Or, if you’d rather go with a great eco-friendly and cost-efficient option, try a desert landscape. We live in Arizona after all!
2. Entrance and Front Door
The entrance and front door are focal points of your home's exterior. Paint the front door in a bold, inviting color that complements the overall color scheme. Ensure the door hardware is clean and in good condition. Add stylish house numbers and a welcoming doormat. I personally love to layer a larger doormat under a smaller one to give a nice extra pop! You can also add a small patio furniture set to your front porch/entrance area of your home. Adding patio furniture to the front entrance gives the home a more welcoming feel!
3. Exterior Maintenance
The dust is real in Arizona! The monsoon season can do a number on the exterior of your home, so I typically recommend doing full maintenance at least twice a year, and minor touch-ups monthly. Invest in a power washer to clean the siding or brickwork, windows, and pathways to remove dirt, grime, and cobwebs. Repair or replace any damaged siding or roof shingles, and ensure the gutters are clean and in good condition.
A fresh coat of paint can also do wonders for your home's curb appeal! Consider painting the exterior walls, trim, and shutters in a color scheme that complements the overall style. Ensure that the colors you choose harmonize with neighboring homes and the surrounding environment (and are approved by your HOA rules if applicable). Trust me, you’ll want to comply with your HOA requirements, or you may see a hefty fee or even face issues if/when you decide to sell your house.
4. Lighting
Outdoor lighting can enhance both the appearance and safety of your home. Install well-placed landscape lighting to highlight architectural features, trees, or walkways. Consider adding decorative fixtures near the front door for a warm and welcoming glow.
5. Outdoor Décor
Consider adding tasteful outdoor décor such as a porch double glider, outdoor seating, or a water feature that complements your home's style. My husband and I enjoy sitting in our super comfortable, oversized loveseat while the kids play outside. However, be mindful not to clutter the space and maintain a cohesive and balanced look.
6. Clean and Tidy
Regularly sweep the porch, driveway, and walkways to keep them clean. Keep your front yard clutter-free and well-maintained. Store items like garbage cans, garden tools, and children's toys out of sight. Having two young children, I know they can create chaos in a space so I always recommend having a place where everything goes to bring in some organization!
Remember, curb appeal is all about creating a positive first impression.
Take a step back and look at your home objectively. Consider: What changes would make the biggest impact? Be sure to include your own personal touches to make your exterior an extension of your interior home!
Brooke Watton is an attorney turned realtor with a penchant for pink, à la Elle Woods. Watton serves the Phoenix Valley. Find her on Instagram @legallyblonderealtor. She resides in Gilbert, Arizona with her husband and two kids.
