Front door curb appeal
HGTV tells readers a few simple changes to the outside of the house are inexpensive and easy to do. Adding new hardware, fresh pots of flowers, and a good coat of paint can create a dramatic change. Trimming back the trees, bushes, and flowers give your home a manicured look. Visitors get their first impression as they walk up to the door. Wow them with bold, large house numbers or a pair of antique rocking chairs. Swings are also popular items for front porches. Remember to fix any driveway and sidewalk issues and ensure motion detectors and cameras are working properly for nighttime safety.
Pillows, throws, and rugs help define spaces indoors and out
As people enter your home, they will look for places to put coats, jackets, and bags. Rugs can direct people to the party area or the back door if you are hosting outside. New throw pillows and blankets add pops of color making your house feel vibrant and exciting. Upgrading the lighting indoors is an inexpensive way to create a new look if you need a change. Donate old decor items and replacing them with fresh, trendy pieces annually if possible. Using similar color patterns and making niches allows you to create necessary functional zones.
Update indoor areas like the kitchen and bath for the most equity
If your inside spaces need a little care and attention, then you should know most home loan companies offer up to 85 percent of the home value in equity says U.S. News. New appliances, islands, and bench seating draw guests into the space. You can get nearly all of your money back with a smart bathroom update. Using small bands of mosaic tile to create a border around or in the shower or tub is more affordable than re-tiling the entire room.
Add a hot tub or other water feature
The New York Times tells readers to send out invitations a couple of weeks before your outdoor event. If you need to update your backyard, then you may want to call pool builders at the beginning of spring to install your swimming pool or hot tub. When you already have a pool, then it only takes an hour or so to get a yearly check and inspection. You do not want to have the guest list finalized to find out your hot tub has a leak or the swimming pool needs repairs.
Use lattice to create private areas
Nothing ruins your outdoor fun than a nosy neighbor or a bunch of kids looking over the fence and commenting on your party. Make it easy to ignore intrusions by adding lattice to your back deck. You can also use a pergola or an arbor. Adding plants that spread and vine can create a screen for privacy and shade for hot days.
Bonus tip: Carry the patio tile into the house for a seamless style
When you have a new addition or pathway, it is important to make the new stuff merge well with the older material. One way to accomplish this task is to use some of the outdoor decking as a transition into the home. You can replace the hallway, bedroom, or great room floors with the same tile or stone flooring.
