Is the exterior of your home welcoming when you return from a long day at work? In just a few years, a neglected exterior can cause a home to lose its curb appeal. Whether you’ve just purchased your home, are ready to put it on the market or simply desire a more welcoming exterior, follow these recommendations from the real estate professionals to ramp up your home’s curb appeal. There’s no time better than the present to get started.

Stand across the street from your home and take a critical look at the landscaping and exterior façade. Is there evidence of deferred maintenance? Is the landscaping out of control? Make a list of needed improvements and necessary supplies from your local home improvement store. Plan to dedicate several hours to accomplishing this list. Take advantage of the awesome deals offered by Groupon coupons and invest in comfortable outerwear from the huge selection available at West Marine. You’ll be working hard in the elements and will need to be both warm and comfortable.

Start your project by addressing the landscaping. All shrubs should be trimmed at least one foot below the height of the windows. Trim tree branches at least ten feet above the ground. Re-edge the beds as needed and apply fresh pine straw or fresh pine needles. Power-wash the driveway and walkways.  Select a fresh coat of paint for the front door and shutters that compliments the existing color of the home. Address any deferred maintenance with shutters, gutters, doors, fencing and railings.

Select a new mailbox, door hardware, house numbers and porch lighting for a fresh, up to date look. Place a large planter of colorful seasonal flowers at the entrance to the front porch. Select an area by the driveway for a large flower bed for seasonal colorful flowers. In just a few short weekends, you’ve succeeded in ramping up the curb appeal of your home. After a long day at the office, your home will now be a welcoming oasis as you enter the drive. Congratulations on a job well done!