show off your curb appeal with these easy tips & tricks from the pros!

First impressions matter. Potential buyers usually form an opinion about your property from the second they pull up to the property. We’ve gathered some proven ways to be sure your house has curb appeal that makes buyers feel welcome and wanting to see more of the property. We’ve included some expert tips from a local Baltimore landscaping company, too.

1. Freshen Everything

Stand in front of your house and take a photo. Now look at it with a critical eye. Most homes could use a good power washing on the exterior. Our harsh winter weather often leaves mud splattered on foundations, dirt and grime on sidings, garage doors, and even windows. Even sidewalks could use a good cleaning. Potential buyers will get the feeling that your house has been well taken care of, even as they get out of their car to see your property. Be sure to check rainspouts to ensure they are working and look good.

2. Paint it

Paint fades, chips, and gets worn away over the year. First impressions matter, so it’s a good idea to touch up paint in spots that are worn. Even better, repaint the entire house to give it like-new curb appeal that will wow your buyers immediately. Be sure to check shutters if you have them, too.

3. Upgrade your lawn

One of the first things a prospective homebuyer will notice is the landscaping. Whether you DIY your lawn or hire an expert, a well-manicured lawn will be a great first impression. Fix bare spots and holes. Be sure to tuck away toys, hoses, etc. and consider adding something cozy like a bistro set or bench with outdoor pillows. Little touches make a huge difference.

4. Get Creative

Invest some time and money into a nicely manicured flower bed near the walkway. Consider updating your house number to your outward-facing wall so buyers know exactly where to park.

5. Solar lights

Line your front walk or garden with good quality solar lights. Even if buyers won’t see your house at night, lights can create a welcoming feel to a front yard. Scatter some solar lights throughout your garden, too, for a warm cozy look in the evening.

Here are some specific recommendations from   Groundshog Landscaping

Audrey Hayes, Director of Marketing and Expansion at Groundshog Landscaping in Catonsville, stresses that the “best staple a home can have is an appealing walkway that leads to the entrance of the home. This can be from a driveway to the front door, or from the pedestrian walkway to the front door.” She adds that the walkway that is most requested by their clients is a paver walkway with a dark, contrasting border. “The great thing about a paver walkway is clients have the ability to be as classic or eclectic as they wish in terms of design.”

1. Plantings are a must. Remember to plant in layers, using taller shrubs in the back as a foundation (Boxwoods or Azaleas) and a large Knockout Rose or Crape Myrtle as the cornerstone.  Then, plant short, multiple periods of color: flowers that have different blooming periods throughout spring, summer, and fall.

2. Plant in odd numbers, as this is usually more esthetically pleasing.

3. Include curves when designing landscapes. They are organic to nature. For flower beds, walkways, or patios, throwing in a curve pays homage to nature.

CURB APPEAL: BEFORE & AFTER

At Shamrock Hill Design, we are here to help you with your home - inside and out! Curb appeal will affect your house in any market. If you’re selling your house and need a stager, we, along with your realtor, are ready to help you get the most money and a quick sale with styles that highlight the positive aspects of your house. We’ll help you decide how to stage on-trend with your own items, or even bring in items to help add that wow factor!

Contact us today at 410-474-5523 or kerry@shamrockhilldesign.com  or visit our website at www.shamrockhilldesign.com  For more landscaping help, contact Groundshog Lawn and Landscape at www.groundshog.com or 410-747-0489.