It’s no secret how important the curb appeal of a home is, especially if you are trying to sell the house. But during the winter months, it is easy to overlook the exterior appearance of a house.
Just because it’s the gray and gloomy days of winter doesn’t mean your home’s exterior can’t look warm and inviting. While it can be somewhat challenging to create curb appeal that is eye-catching without the vibrancy of spring and summer, it is certainly possible with a little hard work and creativity.
These five tips will help enhance the winter curb appeal of any home.
Maintain the Yard
The grass may not be as green as it was in spring and summer, but you can still keep it neat and clean so potential buyers can see what it will look like when it is at its best. The most important thing is to keep the yard clear of dead leaves and debris that can have a permanent effect on the health of the grass. Having a yard full of leaves is also an eye sore, so though it may not be fun, be sure to rake up those leaves periodically.
If you live in warmer climates, don’t forget to also trim bushes and occasionally cut the grass to maintain the yard’s appearance.
Incorporate Winter Landscaping
To enhance curb appeal, go beyond yard maintenance to incorporate some winter landscaping. Find cold weather evergreen plants or artificial shrubs to pot in colorful pots. Place them on your front porch, line your walkways with them, or put them in your landscaped areas. Juniper, blue holly, barberry, boxwood, and red-twig dogwood are just a few plants that stay green all year long.
Clear the Snow and Ice
While snow is often associated with a winter wonderland, it can detract from the curb appeal of a house. Be sure to clear snow and ice from the driveway and any sidewalks so it’s not only safe for anyone coming to look at the house, but it also gives the appearance of a well-maintained home.
Spruce Up the Exterior
Exterior maintenance tends to be forgotten in the cold-weather months, but as trees lose their leaves, more of the home can become visible. So it’s important to keep the outside of the house in tip-top shape. Before it gets too cold outside, pressure wash the house. Also address any issues with paint on the siding, doors, and windows by applying fresh paint. It’s also a good time to replace the numbers on the house and put up a new mailbox.
Add Exterior Lighting
The days are shorter in the winter and the darkness hides some elements of a home’s curb appeal. So a little exterior lighting goes a long way to making your home feel inviting even in the dark. To that end, make sure walkways and porches are well lit, and replace any burnt bulbs in light fixtures.
Incorporate Some Color
Color is in short supply in winter, so add some pop to your home’s exterior with some elements of color. Replace or repaint your front door with a vibrant color. If you have patio furniture, put brightly-colored cushions on them. Colorful garden ornaments are also a good way to incorporate color into the home’s exterior during the winter.
By following these tips, you ensure your home makes a good first impression even during the dreariest time of year.
