Keeping It Simple: What Does Your Home's "Curb Appeal" Say?

I still remember driving up to our old farmhouse back in 1996. It was a rainy stormy night and the home was vacant. We moved through the mud and dark, peering in old windows, and ventured around overgrown bushes.

For many, this is not the most appealing way to view a perspective new residence. While we enjoyed the adventure... many prospective homeowners would run away from such a sight!

Whether you are preparing to sell your home, or just moving in to your new home, ask yourself a few questions to see if it could use some improvement.

• What does the "Curb Appeal" say to guest? 
• Are the bushes nicely trimmed? 
• Are the plantings fresh and neat? 
• Is there a welcoming color or even a freshly stained door?
• If there is a porch/deck, is it clean and freshly painted or stained?
• Are there tasteful seasonal decorations near the entrance? 
• Are there "in season" flowers to brighten up the space and say "I'm cared for"? '
  
  These are few things, that can make, Curb Appeal, that "Simple." 

For example:
Before: This out of control, "Bad Hair Day" cherry
tree, gives a "I don't care" look to a client's front landscaping. 

After: A simple hair cut, and the cherry tree is now a calm welcoming 

part to the clients, once out of control landscape.

You've no doubt heard the phrase, "First Impressions - Are lasting Impressions." This phrase holds true to homes also. A neglected landscaping, gives the impression that the rest of the home may be in disrepair, lacking cleanliness and charm.

After:
 Trimmed bushes and cleaned up weeds,
and the  view from windows
 is now visible from inside and out.

Another example: Before:
Overgrown hedges hide
the view from these windows.
And make the yard appear un-kept. 

 Bottom line: Take pride in your home's appearance! A clean, well kept appearance will let guest know they are welcome before they come knocking at your front door.

It has taken quite a few years, and much work, to transform our old home into a place we enjoy welcoming guest to take in our vast gardens. For us, it was worth the time, work and sweat equity.

 Still confused, not sure where to start? If you live in my area, give a me call to set up a consult. It may make the difference between a prospective buyer, or guest, feeling welcome to look closer or drop by for a visit!

Simple Staging and Decor: Keeping It Simple Small Focal Points

Above: Using a platter a friend gave me, a dollar store bottle, and a few glossy stones.
And walla! You have created a centerpiece/focal point! 

We can all know what to look for when creating or using a large focal point.
A fireplace mantle. A balcony. A chandelier. 

But what if you don't have a grand entry way or cozy fireplace? 

It comes down to using what you have! You can use interesting decor to draw the eye to - or away from a certain area.

Maybe you have a view of the neighbors window from your dining room table. Make the focal point the table instead of the window!

Add natural elements to soften the harsh lines of glass and metal.
Here I added a burlap sack and wood base to the wine bottle.

Draw the eye to the centerpiece with a mix of interesting textures and colors that compliment the room. The fun part of this, is use what you have. No large budget required.

Use bright colors to add flair to the top of an older hutch.
Tone down the colors if preparing your home for sale. 

Make it fun and whimsical! 

Creating welcoming centerpiece (or focal point):


Group objects: I like to use the gardening rule. One, Three, or Five. Anything more tends to look cluttered.

For grounding: Add a textured placemat, runner, tray or basket.

Objects: Candles, plates/platters, stones or glass gems or framed pictures. Or whatever!
(If your selling, stay away from personal photos.

Look for the unexpected. Step out of the box. And be surprised by the results! 

Whether your home is for sale, or your preparing for guest, or your just like me, and want to see nice things when you enter a room...add a focal point in each room!

Need help? Give me a call! I would love to help you simply beautify your spaces!