Spruce Up Your Stoop

Whether you are preparing your home for an open house or simply want to give your front entry a makeover, you can often find low-cost solutions to update your home’s appearance and give potential buyers a positive first impression. Home-improvement retailer  Lowe’s recommends the following quick fixes:

1.     Install upgraded light fixtures and set out a new doormat.

2.     Put a kickplate on the front door to add some elegance and to help prevent scuffs and dents.

3.     Replace the door hardware and doorbell and coordinate the finish with your lighting and kickplate.

4.     Paint the door in a bright, appealing color to create an instant focal point.

5.     To dress up a plain porch and steps, stain the concrete. To give the appearance of stone, combine two stain colors.

6.     Add house numbers, and choose large digits so guests can easily read them.

7.     Plant small trees or shrubs. For added effect, choose something fragrant such as tea olive.

8.     Flank the entry way with planters and then change out the plants each season for fresh splashes of color.

9.     Add lighting along the path leading to the entry. For a more eco-friendly option, choose fixtures with solar panels. The sun charges them during the day for nighttime lighting.

SOURCE: BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOUR AGENT, A MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL OF RESIDENTIAL SPECIALISTS, CRS "Your Home" August 2007