First impressions matter, especially in real estate. And that makes perfect sense – if the outside of your house gets a lot of positive attention, everyone, including potential homebuyers, will want to see what is inside. This is why house renovations should always include the exterior of your home.
According to Rawson Property Group, boosting your kerb appeal is essential if you’re planning to sell. The good news is it doesn’t require a big budget to get it right. All you need is a bit of colour, contrast, balance and some good old-fashioned TLC. Even if you aren’t putting your property on the market, these ideas are worth considering. Not only does it showcase your style, but it keeps your home well-maintained as well.
So what exactly is kerb appeal? It’s that instant charm that draws in passersby or captivates your visitors when they come over. Rawson Property Group shares their top tips, over and above the usual repainting and repairing, to make your home shine:
Under pressure
Our top home renovation tip, no matter what you have planned, is to get everything really clean. It is recommend using a high-pressure cleaner for this task. Hire or buy one and use it on everything – from the roof and exterior walls, your garage door and stoep to your driveway, gutters and fences. You won’t believe how much dirt will wash away.
No pain(t), no gain
One of the easiest – and fun – ways to transform your home’s exterior is to paint your front door. Make a statement with a bright colour or simply freshen up the existing paint. To add some extra interest, hang a seasonal wreath on the door or install a decorative knocker. While you are busy painting, don’t forget the garage! Paint it the same colour as your front entrance or stain the wood for a brand-new look.
A little pick-me-up
Is your existing hardware looking a bit old-fashioned or worn by the elements? Replace your house numbers, gate handles and entry door lock set with newer, more modern options with the same finish so that everything matches. Remember to consider the style of your home. Matte black looks good against bright and light colours, whereas brass works well with wood. These simple house makeover swaps are cost-effective and will make all the difference to the overall look and feel of your home.
Flower power
One way to bring positive attention to your home is by fixing up the garden. However, not everyone has a garden or the time and money to get it looking like a magazine spread. A small but easy project that keeps your house renovation costs to a minimum is installing window boxes. These charming additions can be filled with flowers or herbs that match the colour of your front door (if you have gone for a bright colour) or mirror your interior colour scheme. Paint the boxes bright colours, choose wood cladding for a cottagecore vibe or go neutral!
A-door-able entryways
Symmetry and balance are pleasing to the eye and are a crowd-pleaser. One way to achieve this look is by enhancing your entryway. If you have only one light or potted plant by the front door, consider adding another on the opposite side. If you want to make the entryway look lighter and brighter without swiping your bank card, give the space a good clean. Remove any cobwebs and leaves and polish the metal hardware.
Dress up your driveway
Another great house refurbishment is overhauling your front gate – either by repainting it or choosing a new design. And don’t forget – curb appeal doesn’t end when the sun goes down. Highlight your driveway or garden pathways with solar lighting or fairy lights. Not only does it look inviting but adds extra safety and security precautions to your home.
Draw a crowd
Create a welcoming outdoor space or add some whimsy to your yard with a pop of colour or weather-resistant artwork. This can include installing birdbaths, mosaics, sculptures and wind chimes. Or you can dress up your stoep by adding a fun accent, like an outdoor chair and table. The chair doesn’t need to be in perfect shape – hand-me-downs or fête finds are perfect. Add a bright or patterned cushion or rug for a splash of colour.
Seasonal checks
In an article published on January 13, 2020, Mike Greeff, CEO of Greeff Christie’s International Real Estate, discussed important seasonal checks and suggested the following steps to take:
Summer
Sunny days is the perfect time to check your roof and repair any cracks to ensure your home is leak-free when the winter rains come. This is also the ideal time to damp-proof your walls and repair any damage already caused. Damp marks on ceilings are indications of roof leaks and bubbling and blistering paint is a sign of damp.
External walls, doors and windows must be regularly checked - cracks should be mended and wood treated and varnished to avoid rot, which leads to contraction and inevitably to leaks.
Autumn
Clear your gutters regularly during late summer and autumn months when dry leaves accumulate, and ensure that down pipes are unblocked and draining properly. Sagging gutters must be repaired.
Have your chimney cleaned and your fireplace serviced, particularly if it is a wood-burning stove. The same is true for a gas fire.
Winter
This is the perfect time to prepare your garden. If you’re going to invest in your garden, consult with a landscaper who will assess your soil and the positions available in your garden.
A well-researched and thoughtfully landscaped garden will mean a significant saving in money and time in the long run. Planting the wrong plant in the wrong location either results in a failure to thrive, huge plants which cover the windows of a house and block out light, or trees with roots that buckle brickwork and paving.
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