When you think of how to upgrade your home’s appearance, what probably comes to mind is new siding, a fresh coat of paint or a finely manicured landscape. But what can you do now, in the middle of winter, to give your home extra curb appeal?
Curb appeal is what industry experts refer to how attractive a home and its surroundings are when viewed from the street. It’s important when you’re trying to sell your home, but it’s also nice to have a front porch or driveway that’s an aesthetic delight for you and your neighbors.
“Don’t let winter dull your home’s shine,” notes Joanne English Rollieson of Englewood-based English Realty Associates. “You can make it look great in any season.”
English Rollieson and Taylor Lucyk, broker associate at The Taylor Lucyk Group in Paramus, share these tips to maintaining your home’s curb appeal this time of year.
Opt for hardy plants. You might not be able to have a lush floral garden in the winter, but English Rollieson says there are plants (evergreens, holly, winter jasmine, for instance) that can stand up to harsh weather and give your yard some color and character. You can also decorate with potted seasonal plants, like poinsettias.
Improve your lighting. Using lights to line your driveway and yard can enhance the appearance of your home when it’s dark—and there are plenty of hours of darkness during winter, she says. You can also add strings of lights to distract from the bare branches that may surround your house. “String lights or festive decorations for holidays also can add a cheerful touch,” adds Lucyk.
Keep up maintenance. Shoveling snow and scraping ice aren’t fun jobs, but they’re necessary if you want to make your home look good. If you’re unable to do these tasks yourself, you could hire a neighbor or local landscaper instead. “Ensure your front door is clear of snow and ice and that any welcome mats are cleaned and not covered with snow,” says Lucyk. In addition, he recommends updating the doormat for winter “with a festive or simple design to keep it looking fresh and welcoming.”
Freshen up the front door. Upgrade your front door and porch area with some new décor—an evergreen wreath, for example, English Rollieson says. If you have outdoor furniture on your front porch, you can also change the color palette of any weatherproof pillows to achieve a fitting seasonal appearance. “Symmetry can make a home appear more polished and appealing,” Lucyk adds. “Try matching plants on either side of your front door or placing matching lanterns by the entrance.”
Show your style. Your home should reflect your style, so consider adding pieces that showcase your own tastes. “Place a bench, chair or a few unique outdoor décor pieces like lanterns or sculptures to reflect your personality and make it feel more like a home,” he says.
Make it metal. Give the outside of your home a contemporary feel with metal accents, Lucyk says. “Metal planters, decorative fence topper or light fixtures can modernize your look and provide a sleek, industrial touch.”
What do you do to improve curb appeal in winter? Share your tips with us on Instagram @njhomemag.