Improving Curb Appeal in New Jersey

Any real estate agent will tell you that curb appeal is on the top of the list for adding value to your home, especially in areas with a competitive market, like here in New Jersey. Curb appeal is the first impression you receive when you see a house, and it can make the difference between a house and a home. Simple exterior updates can correct previous design mistakes and remove certain elements that may be long outdated. Changes as simple as new paint colors, new trim, porches, or dormers can dramatically change the feel of the home. Improving curb appeal is extremely useful if you plan to sell your home. Many potential buyers contact real estate agents after driving by a house because they enjoyed the appearance of it. The cost of these kinds of updates can vary greatly depending on what you decide to change about your home, so it is best to contact a general contractor for an estimate.

Before planning any updates, take a look at the other homes in your area. Do you feel that your home is currently too similar and you want it to stand out, or is it too different and you would prefer to blend in a bit more to your New Jersey neighborhood? If your plan is to update for sale, consider making your home fairly similar to those around, but with distinct differences to help it get noticed. If you prefer to be in control of the design process, you can purchase computer software that enables you to cut and paste change onto the home. For a cheaper approach, you can photograph your home, blow up the photo on a copy machine, and sketch out potential changes with tracing paper. However, several homeowners have stated that they were more pleased with the results when just giving a contractor a list of what they wanted rather than a sketch or picture. You can also hire an architect for the design process if you don't feel creativity is your strong suit.

The Entry. The entryway is the natural focal point of the facade, and is often the site for the most dramatic changes. If your entry seems under-scaled or disproportionate, you can add an awning or roof extension over the door. Most two-story homes (and some single-stories) can comfortably accommodate a covered porch. Built-in seating is a true convenience and is also very welcoming. If you already have concrete steps leading to the door, you can reface them with brick or stone for added character. Finally, don't forget about the door itself. A more fashionable or decorative door can greatly add to the appearance of the home, and a set of sidelights can be incredibly welcoming. Here is an example of an entryway and siding update in Chatham, NJ done by M&M Construction Specialist.

The Roof. It is possible to redesign the profile and pitch of the roof, but it will most likely be very costly. The addition of dormers is a far more cost-friendly way to change the appearance of the roof. Dormers, if properly scaled and styled, can be key in enhancing the roofline  as well as adding value to the home by increased natural light and floor space inside. Other opportunities lie on the edges of the roof. Changing the depth of the eaves or applying trim to the overhang will change the look of the house more than one might think. If you have a chimney, you may want to repoint it for a more updated look. Here is a roof installation in Morristown, NJ done by M&M Construction Specialist.

Materials. When it comes to building materials, simplicity is key. New siding can often be installed over the existing, but not always. Make sure you get a professional opinion before deciding to overlay siding. For the most graceful appearance, try to keep siding materials to a minimum. It is okay to use just one, which will allow you more freedom with colors and trim. If you do use two or more materials, try to avoid butting them together. Using siding above stone or brick can be very appealing, but avoid putting them next to each other. This is often seen when people put an addition on the home. Consider different roofing materials as well. Changing the roof material, color, or texture along with siding material can give the house an entirely new feel. Here is an example of updated siding in Livingston, NJ installed by M&M Construction Specialist.

Trim. There are many choices when it comes to trim, from traditional wood millwork to polyurethane molding. Trim can be simple and basic or intricately cut and designed to give your home either a formal or casual mood. Remember to stay true to the style of your home. Putting elaborate Victorian style trim  on a Cape would look less appealing than simple shutters or window boxes, which would hold true to the home's innate character. You may also consider adding a porch or changing the railing on an existing porch or steps. Here is an example of a railing update in Madison, NJ by M&M Construction Specialist.

For a blank-box home, use the entrance as your starting point. Especially for those of us with limited budgets, simple entryway enhancements can dramatically change the home's appearance and escape the "cookie-cutter" look for a relatively small fee. Finally, don't forget the garage. Especially on homes with detached garages, people tend to forget that the garage is part of their home and should be updated with the same changes that are applied to the main house. Before you sign off on a home design, make sure you can get garage doors and windows that coordinate with the windows you are putting in the main home.