Five Quick Fixes That Improve Curb Appeal for Under $500

Five Quick Fixes That Improve Curb Appeal for Under $500

(ARA) - It's a known fact: Good-looking, well-maintained homes sell faster (and command a higher price) than houses that appear worn down and tired. In today's attractive roller coaster real-estate market enhancing curb appeal -- the first impression of a house as seen from the street -- can mean the difference between attracting serious buyers and resulting in a sale, or having the property languish for months as unsold. "Adding curb appeal is a quick and easy way to liven up the home's exterior and improve the value of the home," says Leslie Segrete, home improvement expert and television personality of The Learning Channel's (TLC) Trading Spaces and While You Were Out. Segrete offers the following tips for under $500:

Tip # 1: Refresh Exterior Wood
One of the most significant curb-appeal improvements homeowners can make is to refresh all exterior wood surfaces. Check wood siding, trim, doors, mailboxes, decks and fences for fading, dirt and peeling paint. If the wood is unfinished, use a wood cleaner; if it's finished, use a wood stripping solution. Next, add a fresh coat of stain so these wood surfaces look clean and new again. Consider adding color to outdoor wood furniture with an exterior wood stain; it's an inexpensive way to "decorate" outdoors. The Flood Company's CWF-UV5 Designer Colors Premium Wood Finish is available in eight sheer tones, including colors like Spring Moss and Grapevine Grey. This premium exterior wood finish is also ideal for wood decks, siding and fences because it's guaranteed to protect against water damage, peeling, blistering and graying of the surface due to ultraviolet exposure. The Flood Company also offers a line of wood cleaning and prep products.

Tip # 2: Prune Foliage and Shrubs, Add Mulch
Trim shrubs and trees, and manicure the lawn. Consider energizing the landscape by planting fresh flowers -- simply adding $100 in brightly colored annuals will instantly improve the total appearance of the yard. Take time to prune dead branches, trim back overgrown shrubbery and spread mulch or bark around trees, shrubs and flowers for a weed-free, well-kept look. Also, small shrubs are great for concealing unattractive aspects of a home's exterior, including unappealing air-conditioning units.

Tip # 3: Freshen Up Windows, Shutters and Gutters
Clean windows that flank the front door and repair broken windows and torn screens. Repair and clean shutters to complement the revitalized front entrance, and remember to clean surrounding gutters as they can instantly ruin a first impression.

Tip #4: Lighten Up
To add warmth and add interest, consider installing exterior lighting fixtures to shed some light on a favorite tree, or illuminate the walkway. Remember to clean existing light fixtures and replace burnt-out bulbs.

Tip #5: Accessorize
A small number of accessories adds charm, especially at the home's entryway. Consider adding a few understated ornaments like burgeoning flowerpots, a colorful welcome mat, a name plate or a small rocking chair to make the space look "homey" and welcome. These small additions will attract homebuyers who can envision themselves in the lovely space.

Quick, easy and inexpensive, these five tips will infuse instant energy and appeal into any home's exterior. For printable guides on exterior home maintenance and additional tips, visit www.flood.com or call (800) 321-3444. If you have used or plan to use a Flood Company product to brighten up your exterior space, enter Flood's monthly "before and after" photo contest for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to Smith & Hawken or Crate&Barrel. Visit www.flood.com/flood/DIY/IdeaGallery/BeforeandAfter for more details.

Courtesy of ARAcontent