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Ashton Village
"Curb Appeal" ... |
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The ‘Tangible’
Livability Factor |
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“Curb Appeal” is the impression your home's
exterior conveys to the casual observer from the street. Your home’s
exterior creates an emotional desire to own a home in the Ashton Village
neighborhood and to live the lifestyle it represents. Maintaining your
home’s curb appeal is one of the safest investments you can make. |
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So how can you measure your home’s
curb appeal? First, stand in the street in front of your home and assess its
condition and appearance. Look at your property with a critical eye. View your
property from various angles. Is the roof in good shape? Are there any obvious
problems with the structure or the trim around the door or the windows? Is the
landscaping in good shape? Are there any obvious detractions? What repairs can
be made? Also look at your property at night. Does the lighting work and is it
effective? If you need some creative suggestions, don’t be afraid to ask
friends, family, neighbors, landscapers, or anyone known for providing painfully
objective feedback.
Then develop a "To Do" list to
enhance your home's overall image. Many of these suggestions are pretty simple.
Some are more involved. Some you may never have thought of. Boosting your home's
curb appeal might be as simple as replacing a broken screen, or trimming a dead
branch, or trimming a hedge. To help improve your home’s curb appeal as well as
the neighborhood’s attractiveness, consider the checklist below.
Does your home have "Curb
Appeal"?
"Curb Appeal" Check
List:
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How does the paint look? If it’s been more than 5
years since you last painted, then consider a fresh coat. Choose a color
scheme that sets your home apart from others on the block, but doesn't clash
with the other homes in the neighborhood. If in doubt, seek a neighbor’s opinion.
Also, don't forget to submit your choices to the Ashton Village HOA
Architectural Committee before beginning work. |
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Do you have roof stains? Consider a new roof. A new
roof can make a huge difference. Upgraded roofs shingles can add contrast and
texture to your home's look. And new ridge-vents can save you money on your
cooling bills. |
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Are your rain gutters sagging? If they’re looking old
and weathered, consider a non-clogging, leaf-tolerant replacement.
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Avoid using the front of your home or driveway for storage.
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Do not park vehicles on lawns in Ashton Village.
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Keep your driveway, and walkways clean and clear of
debris. |
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Avoid parking vehicles on the street in front of your
home for extended periods. |
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How does your home look at night? Is your exterior
lighting adequate and functioning properly? |
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Shutters are a great place to add vibrant accent
colors, but be sure to use a paint color that will go well with the color of
the siding. |
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If you have visible patio furniture, BBQs, or
playground equipment, be sure it is in good repair. |
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Keep the grass cut, and trimmed. Pull weeds regularly.
Plant some flowers. |
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Keep over grown trees and bushes cut back.
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Trim shrubs so that windows and doors are not hidden.
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Keep tree limbs or pine needles off your roof. Dispose
of dead & dying branches. |
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Well-manicured landscaping definitely helps boost curb
appeal. |
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Keeping the garage doors closed or keeping a clean
garage can also help. |
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Remove trash cans or recycling bins from sight, as
soon as possible. |
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Consider applying a fresh layer of mulch, and/or bark
to planting beds. |
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Clean all windows, inside & out, including the frames.
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Replace old, rusty mail boxes or leaning posts in a
style that suits the house and the Ashton Village neighborhood.
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Consider painting the mail box post in a color
consistent with the main house. |
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If not used recently, put outside toys away.
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Repair or replace any faded house numbers.
Curb-painted house numbers may need repainting. |
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Pressure wash the exterior of your home to remove dirt
& mildew, etc. |
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Driveways, sidewalks, and other items can also be
pressure washed. |
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How does the garage door look? |
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Polish your brass knockers, lanterns, house numbers,
kick-plates, and doorbell buttons, etc. |
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Make sure all exterior lights are in working order.
Replace aging fixtures. New fixtures can have a dramatic affect on the
overall appearance. |
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Consider replacing and/or updating your front door.
The front door is one of the most prominent details of your house.
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Cut-glass storm doors can be BOTH practical and
elegant. |
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Take pictures of your home from the street and share
them with others for their opinions. Take pride in your Ashton Village
neighborhood! |
Summary note: The look of your
home starts with the neighborhood, works its way to your yard and culminates at
the front of your home. The steps that we take to ensure that our homes look
attractive and inviting are definitely worth the effort. Our property-values are
directly related to how our community looks and feels. ‘Curb appeal’ affects
property values. Paying attention to curb appeal makes sense for Ashton Village.
Thanks for making Ashton Village one of Houston's most livable
neighborhoods!
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