There are a lot of beautiful houses around the Minneapolis and St. Paul area, and of course, each of us would like to believe our own home falls into that category.

As we all know, there's a lot more to being a homeowner than just going through the process of buying the right house. It includes keeping that house in top condition and creating a good first impression. Of course, we want everyone who walks by to think "Wow, that's a nice house."

Regardless of whether you're planning on staying put awhile or are preparing to sell your home, enhancing its curb appeal is a very important part of home ownership.

Evaluating Your Home's Appearance: Be Objective

When determining how to enhance curb appeal, Chip Wade, home-improvements adviser for Liberty Mutual Insurance, suggests stepping back and looking at your house as though you've never seen it before.  While you're surveying your home from the curb, pay special attention to the following things:

  • Front Entry Area. For the greatest curb appeal, your home should have a front porch. If it doesn't and you don't have the space or finances to add one, think about adding a portico large enough to keep visitors out of the rain. Also look at the state of your front door. Is it still in good condition, or is it time to replace it?
  • Garage Door. Is yours simply the "builder-grade" door? If so, you may want to consider replacing it. Garage doors can have a huge impact on the overall appearance of a home, so choosing a looks-like-wood door made from fiberglass will add remarkable appeal to your home.
  • Roofing and Siding. Although new roofing and siding can take a bite out of your wallet, these improvements will dramatically increase your home's value, which is especially helpful when the time comes that you're looking to sell it.

 Be Conscious of Home Improvement Cost vs. Value

After surveying your home's needs with a more critical eye, you'll want to evaluate cost vs. value - how much money you'll be able to recoup if you decide to sell your home. Generally exterior home improvements pay offer better than interior remodeling.  Here are some common improvements with the highest payback value (on average):

  • Exterior doors = 70% for fiberglass and 100% for steel
  • Garage doors = 85%
  • Roofs = 71%
  • Windows = 73% for vinyl and 79% wood

If you're not planning to sell your home, you have the added value of living with these amenities. Many homeowners have wished they had updated their homes long before deciding to move out!

As homeowners ourselves, we understand the work it takes to keep your curb appeal up to par.  Whether you're wanting a small renovation or a complete exterior remodel, Quarve Contractors, a Minnesota licensed remodeling contractor, is here to help you bring your home renovations dreams to life.  We offer exterior home improvement like roofing, siding, and replacement windows and exterior doors in the entire Twin Cities metro.  If you're looking to improve the impression your home makes, give us a call today for a free consultation.