If you’d like to increase the attractiveness and curb appeal of your yard and landscape, there are a number of things you can do inexpensively. Many of these things actually don’t cost any money at all, and just require a little effort on your part.
Start by Cleaning
One of the least expensive things you can do to make your home and landscape look better is to clean everything. Window sills, windows, railings and porch ceilings all get dirty. Just cleaning the dirt off of the surfaces of your home and porch, and cleaning the windows will make your home much more attractive. Rent a power washier for the weekend and you’ll be able to clean a lot of things. Concrete porches and sidewalks will come clean with power washing, as will your home’s vinyl siding and shutters. Wash your driveway, and give it a fresh coat of sealant if needed.
Weeding and Pruning
A little gardening can go a long way towards giving your home some curb appeal. Even if you don’t purchase any new flowers, plants or trees, you can improve the appearance of the plants you already have by getting all your planting beds weeded, and pruning your plants and bushes. Also put down some fresh mulch to make planting beds look their best. Once your trees and bushes are trimmed and are no longer shaggy and overgrown, your whole yard will look better. You should also keep your lawn mowed, and keep everything neatly edged. Reseed and patch any bare or thinning spots in your lawn. These types of chores cost almost nothing, but if you have a little extra in your landscaping budget, a hanging basket, big pot of flowers or some window flower boxes can add a splash of color.
Lighting
A home always looks a little cozier with some attractive lighting. Use landscaping lights and other exterior lighting, plus some electric candles in the windows to give your home a warm appearance.
Inviting Porch
If you have a front porch, add a few pieces of comfortable furniture such as a rocking chair or bench, and maybe a small patio table or two. This will make your front porch look inviting, as well as provide you with a spot to sit and enjoy your yard. An attractive welcome mat is also a nice addition.
Fresh Paint
With just a little bit of paint, you can give your mailbox and house numbers a fresh new look. While you’re at it, give your front door, porch railings and exterior trim and shutters a fresh coat of paint if they are starting to look faded. Once you get your front door freshly painted, hang a new seasonal wreath on it as a finishing touch.
Once you have completed sprucing up your yard, complete the effect by making sure everything stays cleaned up. Put away any toys, keep trash out of sight, keep garden hoses under control and just clean up clutter in general. Put away all of your gardening supplies and tools, and your yard will look neat and tidy, as well as clean, manicured and colorful.
Online contributing editor for WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, Jessica Ackerman has over 20 years of design experience, from home decor accents to candle wall sconces online.
