The air is turning chilly and the holidays are just around the corner, which means it’s a great time to add a few simple elements to your home that boost curb appeal. Checking off these simple upgrades could make your home seem more inviting and aesthetically pleasing, whether you’re having family and friends over to celebrate or staying cozy with those closest to you. We also offer some basic tips for protecting your property from cold weather damage, which may bolster your home’s value.
Spruce up your porch with winter-friendly plants
Incorporating evergreen plants and shrubs around your entryway can create a rich, green backdrop even as frosts settle in for the season. Consider potted plants like these to keep a pop of color on your porch in the winter:
- Boxwood
- Juniper
- Wintergreen
- Christmas rose
- Blue spruce
- Snowdrops
If the soil in your yard is still soft, you can plant some evergreens like boxwood or spruce to add some structure to your landscaping that will last you through the colder months. Read this article for more tips on plants to plant before the cold hits.
Add pathway lighting for safe and sparkling walkways
Because the sun sets earlier during this time of year, you’ll want to make sure that guests don’t have to navigate to your front doorway in the dark – particularly if conditions get icy. Create clear and visible walkways with low-voltage LED lights along your driveway and sidewalk. LED lights can also be used to highlight landscaping features like trees.
You can find plenty of visually appealing options online or at your local hardware store or home and gardening store. Solar-powered lights are an especially energy-efficient option that eliminate the need for wires, simplifying installation.
Bring out the holiday wreaths and seasonal accents
The wreath on your front door serves as the centerpiece to your home’s exterior vibe. There are so many different options for a great winter wreath – you can buy (or make!) a wreath with pinecones, evergreens, eucalyptus, or bright and cheerful winter berries. To add a dash of holiday merriment, tie a holiday-themed bow or ornaments to your wreath.
Depending on the size of your entryway, you might want to add matching items such as decorative branches or lights above and to the sides of your door for a more cohesive look. Don’t forget to put down a holiday door mat to make your entry door welcoming for guests.
Keep up with exterior maintenance
Winter can be harsh on exterior paint, fixtures, roofing and landscaping. Regular upkeep on these areas can prevent small issues from becoming major eyesores.
- Check for peeling paint, rust, or damaged areas, and make small repairs as needed. Simple touch-ups to the front door or trim can refresh the look of your home and enhance curb appeal.
- Clear your gutters of leaves and debris which, when combined a cold snap, can damage your roof. You may want to add gutter guards to prevent buildup in the future.
- If you have outdoor spigots, be sure to wrap them up with a foam insulation sleeve to keep them from cracking during a freeze.
- Small trees that can’t handle the weight of snow well can be propped up with stakes, and smaller landscaping plants can be covered with tarp to shield them from frost.
- Prevent cracks in your driveway from worsening by regularly shoveling snow off of your driveway, or use a snow blower to clear it away. Melt ice with pet-safe ice melt to prevent dangerous slippery surfaces. If the weather is still fairly warm in your area, take the time now to seal cracks before the first freeze of the year.
- Fix any loose or broken items such as shutters, mailboxes, or house numbers. Every detail counts, and small improvements can add up to make a big impact.
Read this article for even more tips on protecting your home from seasonal damage.
Wishing you a warm and wonderful winter holiday!
By taking a few simple steps like upgrading your greenery and decorating your entryway, you can transform your home’s exterior to look cozy, joyful and well put together through the holidays. And by preparing your home and yard to weather the winter’s cold, you’ll put your property in a better position to look great by springtime – which not only boosts curb appeal, but might help your property’s value.
Adding curb appeal to a home can be particularly impactful for those considering selling, buying, or refinancing a property, as the exterior's first impression significantly influences perceived value and interest. For potential buyers, curb appeal signals that a property is well-maintained and worth their consideration. For someone considering financing options like a mortgage, understanding how to maintain curb appeal could enhance the value of their investment over time.
Have you been dreaming of making some home or landscaping upgrades? Fund your projects by pulling cash from your home’s equity. Newrez can help get you started.
