What is Curb Appeal?
When you decide to sell your home, curb appeal doesn't just add value-it gets buyers in the front door! If landscape is overgrown, the house does not look inviting. Removing or cutting back large shrubs is a start. Additionally, doors and windows should not be hidden from view for security reasons.
Stand in front of the house and take an objective look from different angles. Of course, the mailbox and painted surfaces should be clean and in good repair.
Identify the orientation of the house. The north side requires plants that do well in shade. A landscape plan should start with an evergreen skeleton-foundation plants to soften the edges of the architecture. Use relatively large plants at the corners of the house. Placement is diagonal in front and away from the corner, not directly in front of the structure. Select plants according to shape, light requirement, and size at maturity. Repetition is the mark of a professional-looking landscape. Consider dwarf or compact varieties for filler and borders; these are dense, slow-growing, and practically zero maintenance. Several types of dwarf holly are evergreen and do well in sun or shade.
When shaping beds, a strong curve is appealing and contrasts nicely with the straight lines of the building. A specimen plant, one that stands out from the rest, makes an interesting focal point. Bulbs and annuals should be used sparingly, if at all, in the front landscape. For a classy look, keep lawn ornaments in the backyard. Remember, if deed restrictions require changes to be approved by a committee, that is your responsibility. ©Rhonda Lazzari
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