The idiom, “don’t judge a book by its cover,” is used metaphorically, when referring to people, restaurants, and more. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about houses.
The National Association of Realtors agrees that curb appeal is the most important factor when trying to attract a buyer. Studies have shown that a well-cared-for exterior can boost the value of a home by upwards of 14%.
Before you begin to improve the exterior of a house, there are a few things you should do first. Keep reading for 4 things you should do before you begin your home landscaping projects.
1. Pressure Wash the Exterior of a House
If you have lived in your home for quite some time, you may not realize how dirty the sidewalks and exterior are. The grime that builds up becomes a permanent part of the exterior, and you find yourself wondering if the house was always so dull.
If you are looking to repaint your house, then it is a good idea to pressure wash it first. Pressure washing is a little bit like using a magic wand as you watch the years of dirt wash away in an instant. Pressure washing your house will leave the exterior looking squeaky clean.
Don’t forget about the sidewalks either, as these are the welcoming points to your home. If you notice some cracks and are looking to fill them in, they should be pressure washed first to flush out all the dirt.
2. Clean Gutters
Keeping the gutters clean is one of the most important things you can do before you do any home landscaping. Ensure that water is properly drained and has somewhere to go away from the house to keep it from flooding.
Even the most beautiful houses can flood and have foundation issues if the gutters are not cleaned at least twice a year.
3. Declutter the Yard
A well-kept yard and garden will leave a lasting impression on any home buyer, and there are plenty of garden ideas out there should you need inspiration.
Be sure that you are pulling weeds, raking any leaves that have fallen, and keeping the grass mowed so that your gardens can be the envy of the neighborhood.
4. Repair the Driveway
If your driveway is looking a bit rough and you are starting to see more cracks appear, then it is time to patch it or resurface it.
Cracks in the driveway can lead to potholes, and we all know how unsightly those can be. Consider pressure washing it first, to remove any built-up dirt so that your driveway can look its best.