Are you considering putting extra effort into your outdoor space, but aren’t sure where to start? Are you concerned about spending your hard-earned money on additions and renovations that you won’t get back if you ever sell? Here are some updates you can make to the exterior of your home, and these tips can truly increase the value of your home.

Replace & Refresh

First off, don’t make big changes until you’ve taken care of the small repairs that you’ve been overlooking or putting off. Secure that shutter that fell last fall, replace any burned-out light bulbs, and paint your front columns and porch. Seal your driveway, fill those concrete cracks, and replace all the old doorknobs. Replace your old mailbox and add a sturdier model complete with your house numbers on it. Freshening your outdoor area is essential to showcase the other improvements you make. You only get one shot to a good first impression.

Buy A New Front Door

A beautiful new front door sets the tone for your entire home. Select a rich wood door or a heavy-duty steel door. Choose one with small windows and don’t forget to add new hardware and locks. If you’re going to paint your door, select a nice color so that it shows your personality while still complementing the look of your exterior. If your budget does not allow for a new door, painting your existing door is a great way to refresh the face of your home.

Plant Flowers & Bushes

An empty front yard isn’t inviting, but it doesn’t take much effort to spruce it up. Plant some evergreen shrubs around the front and sides and plant a few flowers to add color. Trees are great for your front and back yards. Space them strategically across your lawn to create more interest. And don’t neglect the area around your mailbox, which is one of the first areas buyers see. Colorful perennials of different varieties are great for those areas and you will have beautiful blooming flowers from spring to fall.

Add Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting is a great way to set your home apart from others on the market. It’s a small investment but your home will shine! Motion-sensor lighting offers a safety factor by deterring burglars, while lit paths and lighting around trees and flower beds showcase your gardening efforts. Outdoor lighting is a great way to add value to your home if you ever choose to sell.

Build A New Deck or Patio

Outdoor living is very popular, and buyers look for ways to use their outdoor space year-round if possible. Find a good spot and contract a landscaper to build you a patio or a deck in your backyard. If you can, add a screened-in porch – buyers love those! You’ll gain many hours of enjoyment with it, and still be able to recoup its cost if you ever decide to sell.

Install A Sprinkler System

Not only will it be convenient for you to water your newly improved lawn, but it will also be an added benefit to buyers to know they can take advantage of it, too. In addition, over time, it will save you time and water, which translates into money savings.

Replace the Garage Doors

Truly – few upgrades change the look of your house as noticeable as replacing the old garage doors. Yes, this can be costly, but fresh, new doors make a statement that the home has been well taken care of.  Choose doors with small windows, or interesting patterns to stand out.

A home listing may focus on the square footage and number of bedrooms and bathrooms, but those aren’t the only components buyers are looking for. An attractive outdoor space where homeowners can relax, enjoy their families, and entertain friends is becoming more important than ever. If you’re thinking about some landscaping ideas, make sure you invest your money in upgrades that will make your home more marketable and sell for a higher price. Then enjoy those improvements yourself until you decide to sell!

I would love to be part of your journey when the time is right for you. If you ever have a real estate question or need, or know someone who does, trust that you can turn to me.  I will help you make the right move! Anna Granger 704-650-5707 |annagrangerhomes@gmail.com | www.1stchoicepropertiesinc.com