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Curb Appeal Checklist

The way your home shows on first impression from the outside makes the biggest impact on a buyer. A few small repairs, improvements and upgrades to the exterior and the landscaping can translate into a big difference in appearance.

• Remove trash and debris from the property.
• Store garbage cans in the side yard away from view.
• Check the home from the roof line down.
  • Is the roof free and clear from obstructions and moss?
  • Are the gutters clear and neatly hung?
  • Are the windows clean?
  • Are the windows/doors free from obstruction (i.e., overgrown bushes or trees)?
  • Are the bushes, trees and shrubs neatly pruned?
• Inspect the condition of the paint or siding.
  • Power wash the siding.
  • Is touch up paint needed?
  • Is the front door in good shape?
• Do the plant/ flower beds need an upgrade?
  • Are plants neatly pruned?
  • Are the plant/flower beds free and clear of weeds?
  • Are the plant/flower beds properly mulched?
  • Are flowers in bloom?
• Keep the lawn neatly groomed.
  • Is the lawn free from weeds?
  • Is the lawn free from grass clippings?
  • Is the lawn neatly edged?

CURB APPEAL PROJECTS

Retaining Wall

Problem: The sloping ground made the yard hard to landscape and maintain, and soil often eroded into the neighbor's yard.

Solution: A small retaining wall bordering the driveway creates a flat surface that makes landscaping easier and helps to stop erosion. And plants, such as boxwood and mondo grass, can serve as a hedge, establishing a visual barrier between neighboring yards.

Arbor Pathway

Problem: No clear walkway linked the front and back yards, and the grass was worn down in places from foot traffic.

Solution: Stepping-stones define a path to the backyard and add visual interest to the large expanse of grass. An arbor creates an architectural connection between the front and back of the house, and a jasmine canopy adds color and fragrance.

Driveway

Problem: The driveway consisted of a large expanse of concrete that was visually unappealing.

Solution: A contractor removed a strip of concrete and replaced it with red brick to break up the grayness and to tie in the driveway with other elements of the landscape. The boxwoods and mondo grass alongside the driveway soften the overall look, taking the focus off the driveway itself.

Mailbox

Problem: The wall-mounted mailbox was too small to hold large amounts of mail. Plus the street address was hidden, making the house hard to identify.

Solution: A larger, freestanding mailbox is accessible from the street. It prominently displays the address numbers and holds a lockbox that keeps mail secure.

Bay Window

Problem: A flat and outdated window made the front of the house appear bland and one-dimensional.

Solution: A bay window brings more light into the home's front room and opens up the space. Its three sides add depth and architectural interest to the home's facade.

Garage Door

Problem: The garage door is old/worn.

Solution: Power-wash the garage door, then paint it. Replace the springs and grease the tracks. Alternativel, a new garage door give the house an updated look.

Garage Door

Problem: Front door is old/worn.

Solution: Power-wash the front door, then paint it. Replace the door hardware. Add matching decorative hardware (such as a door knocker).

Lighting

Problem: A dark walkway and stoop made the entrances unsafe for the homeowner and guests.

Solution: New solar lighting around the drive and walkway keeps the areas well lit at night while also conserving energy. A lantern near the garage and a new ceiling fixture at the front door add welcoming touches.

Plants and Flowers

Problem: The plant/flower beds need replanting/improvement.

Solution: Composite edging made from recycled materials separates garden beds from surrounding grass, keeping water-conserving mulch in place. Drought-tolerant plants, such as boxwood, dwarf yaupon holly, nandina, and mondo grass, require less water and typically can survive through hot dry spells.