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With the warmer weather upon us, it’s time to start focusing on the needs of the outside of our house. Everyone knows that first impressions are the most important and the longest lasting. When it comes to our home, curb appeal is Number One on the First Impressions List. This week, I am sharing some simple, low-cost improvements that you can do in a day, in a weekend,or in a month .
With the warmer weather upon us, it’s time to start focusing on the needs of the outside of our house. Everyone knows that first impressions are the most important and the longest lasting. When it comes to our home, curb appeal is Number One on the First Impressions List. This week, I am sharing some simple, low-cost improvements that you can do in a day, in a weekend,or in a month .
Improvements You Can Do in a Day
Create perfect symmetry
Symmetry is not only pleasing to the eye, it's also the simplest to arrange. Symmetrical compositions of light fixtures and front-door accents create welcoming entryways. This door is flanked by two sidelights. The black lantern-style sconces not only safely guide visitors to the door, but also coordinate with the black door and urns
Replace old hardware
House numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, and an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home's exterior. If they're out of date or dingy, your home may not be conveying the aesthetic you think it is. These elements add the most appeal when they function collectively, rather than as mix-and-match pieces. Oiled-bronze finishes suit traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits more contemporary ones. 
Dress up the front door
Your home's front entry is the focal point of its curb appeal. Make a statement by giving your front door a blast of color with paint or by installing a custom wood door. Clean off any dirty spots around the knob, and use metal polish on the door fixtures. Your entry should also reflect the home's interior, so choose a swag or a wreath that reflects your personal style 
Do a mailbox makeover
Mailboxes should complement the home and express the homeowner's personality. When choosing a hanging drop box, pick a box that mirrors your home's trimmings. Dress up posted boxes by staining or painting the wooden post to match the house's trim and woodwork. Create structures for your box from materials found throughout the hard-scaping. Be sure to consult a professional when designing and building structures 
Install outdoor lighting
Low-voltage landscape lighting makes a huge impact on your home's curb appeal while also providing safety and security. Fixtures can add accent lighting to trees or the house or can illuminate a walking path. If you aren't able to use lights that require wiring, install solar fixtures (but understand that their light levels are not as bright or as reliable) 
Create an instant garden
Container gardens add a welcoming feel and colorful appeal to any home exterior -- quickly and affordably. You can buy ready-made containers from garden centers or create your own with your favorite plants. For most landscapes, a staggered, asymmetrical arrangement works best to create a dynamic setting. 
Renew planter beds
Get garden beds into shape by pruning growth, pulling weeds, planting flowers, and adding new mulch to restore color that was taken away by sunlight and harsh weather. If stone or brick borders your bed, consider cleaning and resetting any pieces that are soiled or dislodged. If your border is old or tired-looking, try upgrading to stone or a decorative cast-concrete edging system
Install window boxes
To review, follow these links - improvements you can do in a day, in a weekend,or in a monthCourtesy of BHG
