In a snowy Chicago winter, you might think that you’ve got to give up on some of the key aspects of curb appeal when selling a house and buying a new one. That isn’t true! You can absolutely find ways to make your home appealing at first glance even when the weather is a little dreary. Try these methods for sprucing up a front entrance and yard.
Keep Everything Trimmed and Neat
Maintaining landscaping in the winter is often a smaller job than a full-summer yard maintenance session, but you can still make your yard look maintained and beautiful in the winter. The key is to keep the grass uniform during the fall so that during the winter it doesn’t seem scraggly or unkempt. Bushes, trees, and other features can be pruned substantially at the appropriate time of year, but a few stray twigs and leaves can be shaped or cut even in mid-winter to make sure everything looks great. A professional landscaper will be able to help you avoid harming your plants while giving it all a great look.
Mulch For a Maintained Look and Root Protection
Mulch that is right for your plant beds can do a lot to protect plants from the coldest days while also discouraging weeds. Mulch looks better than a less maintained or even weedy flower bed, so adding mulch can be one treatment that brings new life to your curb appeal with even one or two treatments.
Add Decorative Elements to Small Yards
If your yard is small, consider whether a bench, a birdbath, or some other yard ornament would add a little character and a reminder that spring and summer will come again. These items have to be able to handle the snow and cold, but if they are in great shape, potential buyers notice them with a positive feeling as they approach the home.
Lights in Windows and Other Decorations Are Inviting and Warm
The house itself has curb appeal options too. While over-the-top holiday decorations don’t tend to shed the best light on most homes, adding a few electric candles to windows can add a homey glow during the coldest months that isn’t tied to a single holiday season. A new door mat, a simple wreath, or a welcome sign can all add color and charm during a time of year when homes might otherwise seem washed out against overcast skies.
Powerwash Siding or Repaint on a Mild Day
Finding an above-freezing day in the winter can be a challenge, but if you find yourself with a chance to power wash or redo the paint on the home before listing the property, it could be well-worth your while. This work really brings a wow factor to the home, helping it stand out against grey clouds or white snow, and many trusted real estate agents would say that a good cleaning or coat of paint can completely change a buyer’s first impression of the house.
