Impressions are everything and you don’t have to be a real estate agent to know that a home with immense curb appeal is what makes potential buyers bite and at the same time gives us homeowners a deep sense of pride in our most valued possession.

Whether you’re planning to sell, or live there for years to come – if you want your home noticed, here are some projects that will provide a good return on investment at any time.

1.   Define A Clear Pathway.
Clearly define a path to your front door, which leads into your home.  Make sure to rid your pathway of any weeds poking through the cracks and line your path with some natural elements to draw people in.

2.  Upgrade Your Front Door.
Installing a new front door will instantly enhance your home’s façade and sets a tone for what lies beyond.  Make sure the new door compliments your home’s architecture, and if at all possible introduce some glass either within the door itself, a transom above or sidelights to the side.  Consider painting the new door red or black for some added drama – and to draw some positive energy in.

3.  Update Old Windows.
If your windows are single pane energy wasters it’s time to replace them with new energy efficient ones. Windows associated with the Energy Star label will save you money throughout the year and keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.  Dress up these new windows by adding some elegant window boxes with your favorite plants and flowers for a burst of color.

4.   Replace Your Siding.
If your siding is dated or damaged then it’s time to update it.  Replacing your siding is among the least costly upgrades you can make to your home and immediately boosts your home’s appeal.  It’s available in a variety of colors and styles and will complement any home style.

5.  Add a Porch or Deck.
Those charming front porches from years ago are back in vogue and decks, which have remained popular throughout the years, have evolved into multi-leveled outdoor living spaces complete with kitchens, spas and fire-pits.  So whether you’re adding a porch, patio or deck onto your existing home, for a seamless transition make sure to get professional design help.

6.  Architectural Details.
If the front of your home is void of details, then create some!  Draw attention to your entryway by adding some chunky moldings.  Create some visual interest by installing new window trims and shutters. You may even consider incorporating a charming new fence, trellis, or water feature.

7.  Landscaping.
Adding shrubs, flowers or container gardens add instant impact to your front yard.  Create an inviting entrance by investing in a pair of architectural pots, fill them with flowering plants, and place them on the landing flanking the front door.  Dig a new planting bed for flowers along the driveway or in front of your house.

8.  Roofing.
Your roof could potentially cover anywhere from 40%-60% of your home’s overall visual appearance, so you want to make sure it’s in good condition.  If any of the shingles need to be replaced then do so.  If you’re replacing the roof select a new roofing material that compliments the style of your home.

9.  Lighting.
Design a sense of drama by adding some energy efficient low LED or solar powered garden lights along your pathway and driveway, and highlight your home by accenting the façade with multiple layers of lighting. Include a pair of wall sconces flanking the front door and invest in quality finishes.  Creating a welcoming glow throughout your property will draw your guests (or potential buyers) in.

10.  Fresh Paint.
If the paint on your house looks gray, cracked and weathered then it’s time for a fresh coat of paint.  Either tackle it yourself, or hire a professional to help.    If cost and time are factors simply paint out the front door, window trims, shutters and any fencing in a fresh new color.

Oh and don’t forget to adorn your revamped exterior with some fabulous new jewelry!  New house numbers, door handles and a mailbox will give your exterior that finished and cohesive look.

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

We’ve all heard the saying “You only get one chance to make a good first impression.” Proudly showing off your home’s exterior sets the stage for what’s to come, and gives the impression that it’s loved inside and out.

Whether you’re planning to sell, or live there for years to come, there are very simple cost effective ways to spruce up your home’s curb appeal. Here are some projects you can do this weekend to give your home the boost it needs. It just takes a bit of creativity and…. elbow grease!

1. Maintenance. Start by cleaning up your yard. Make sure tools or equipment are neatly stored in your shed or garage. Kill any weeds poking through the cracks in the driveway and walkway, and give those surfaces a good power spray. This will clean away any discoloration and old grease stains. Remove any overgrown weeds, dead plants and flowers throughout your property. Trim all shrubs and trees particularly if they’re obstructing your front door. Have your lawn mowed once a week and add sod to dead spots when needed.
2. Windows. Clean windows inside and out so they sparkle and shine. Make sure the window coverings used on the interior are not distracting from the exterior. If the style of architecture allows, install some charming window boxes planted with your favorite plants and flowers for a burst of color.
3. Gutters and Downspouts. Walk around the perimeter of your home and make sure all your gutters and downspouts are clean and tightly connected. If they’re in need of serious repair then replace them. They typically charge per linear foot.
4. Paint. If the paint on your house looks gray, cracked and weathered then it’s time for a fresh coat of paint. Either tackle it yourself, or hire a professional to help. If cost and time are factors simply paint out the front door, window trims, shutters and any fencing in a fresh new color.
5. Landscaping. Adding shrubs, flowers or container gardens add instant impact to your front yard. Create an inviting entrance by investing in a pair of architectural pots, fill them with flowering plants, and place them on the landing flanking the front door. Dig a new planting bed for flowers along the driveway or in front of your house.
6. Details. If the front of your home is void of details, then create some! Draw attention to your entryway by adding some chunky molding. Create some visual interest by installing new window trim and shutters. You may even consider incorporating a charming new fence, trellis, or water feature.
7. Lighting. If your front entry fixtures are worn, cracked or rusted, replace them. Create a sense of drama by adding some low voltage or solar garden lights along your sidewalk and driveway. It’s a fabulous way to provide you with extra illumination and a little added security.
8. Hardscaping. If you have a front porch, arbor, or trellis make sure they are in pristine condition and paint or stain the wood to look like new. Consider tiling your front doorstep creating a permanent welcome mat, or introduce a natural stone border along the sidewalk or driveway.
9. Roofing. If you need a brand new roof then it’s not a weekend project. But make sure you do replace any cracked or missing tiles or shingles where needed. A roof could potentially cover anywhere from 40%-60% of your home’s overall visual appearance, so make sure it’s in good condition.
10. Hardware. Time to shop. Replace your old front door handle, mailbox, house numbers and knockers for a fresh new look. They don’t need to be expensive pieces. Get rid of the old shiny brass hardware and introduce some antique copper, bronze or brushed nickel. Doesn’t your home deserve some new jewelry?

Improving your home’s curb appeal doesn’t need to be extensive or expensive. Some cleaning, fresh paint, accent lighting and a few new accessories may be all it needs. Take pride and enjoy it!

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca.
© 2009 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc