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Want to Create Great Curb Appeal? Start at the Front Door!

That philosophy applies not only to meeting someone new, but to your house as well. Your front door says a lot about the people who live inside. A well-maintained entrance is welcoming, inviting and friendly. If you’re planning to sell your house, start with a new front door. You want potential buyers to get excited about stepping over the threshold. Even if you’re not looking to sell, replacing an unattractive or broken door will make coming home a treat. Choose a neutral shade of brown, cream or white. “Safe” colors like these coordinate with any shade of siding flawlessly and will appeal to potential buyers. Or, make a big statement with a bold color. Once you’ve chosen a color, add some easy cosmetic changes. Put your “welcome” front and center with stickers and add a welcome mat with personality. A mat not only encourages guests to wipe their shoes, but can make a bold statement about who you are or where you’re from. Proudly display something about your family by hanging your last initial on a pretty wreath. Use decals for decorative address numbers to complete the look. If you went for a bright front door, install house numbers in an interesting font and a unique door knocker. Avoid an entrance that’s too vibrant with dark accessories. If the hardware that came with your new front door feels too standard, get a customized look by replacing it. Instead of shiny brass, try a new color like bronze, pewter or black. Don’t forget to change the lockset and hinges, too. Consider a lever handle, which is a universal design that people with every level of physical ability can easily use. Of course, changing your door decor with the seasons is a no-brainer. Nothing is more welcoming than flowers. Fill pots and hanging planters with colorful blooms. You can even stack them on a chair or bench. Other easy fixes include: If your front porch, stoop or landing is big enough, chairs and a table encourage guests to stay and relax. A rocker or swing has an old fashion appeal. Install an awning to keep the rain off as you unlock the door. Replace lighting fixtures to reflect your home’s style and personality. Whatever your solution, it should make your new door say, “Welcome, stay awhile!” About the Author Merri Cvetan is a crafty interior designer who provides tips and step-by-step instructions for DIY decor projects, such as updating the look of your front door. Visit The Home Depot to find a large selection of front entry doors.

Get Ready for Spring & Summer! Three Outdoor Living Trends Buyers Love

If you're considering putting your home on the market, don't neglect your outdoor living space while making improvements.  Your home's backyard is important in attracting buyers and making home as appealing as possible.  With the right outdoor spaces, you will attract the growing number of buyers who want to spend more time in the sunshine and fresh air, hosting events for friends and family.  Here are some modern trends in outdoor living that will entice today's buyers.

Fire Pits

Outdoor fire pits are hot right now.  An outdoor fire pit can be ideal for lounging outside on those cool summer nights, making your outdoor space appealing to buyers.  It provides a comfortable, logical place for outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying s'mores together as a family.  You have two options:purchase a DIY fire pit kit from a home improvement store, or hire a contractor to build a permanent structure, depending  upon your budget and how often you'll use it.

Outdoor Kitchen

More and more homeowners are maximizing their backyard with outdoor kitchens. Today's well designed outdoor kitchen should allow for cooking outdoors year-round, and include an outdoor sink, range and even an oven, making your home more inviting.  Of course, you will need to weigh the costs of this upgrade against the potential benefits.  A professional can offer valuable advice about the ideal location and how it will work with other elements of your year, but if you have a great outdoor entertaining space, consider adding an outdoor kitchen to attract buyers.

Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting appeals to buyers for a number of reasons: It expands the usability, making it easier to enjoy the ambiance of a garden well into the evening.  You might want to highlight some specific features of your backyard like a water fountain or pond.  You can achieve a soft mood by hiding landscape lighting under shrubs.  Good outdoor lighting will make your home more inviting, year round especially during the long nights of winter.  Having your lighting on timers that can be seasonally adjusted will save on electricity costs. An added benefit--outdoor lighting helps improve the security of your home, which is important to some buyers. 

Don't forget to "Spring Ahead" this March 12, 2017 when daylight savings begins!  

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