First impressions are of the utmost importance, especially when it comes to something as significant as the place one envisions themselves calling “home”. In fact, first impressions are said to be made in a mere seven seconds. In a society where it’s valued to not judge a book by its cover, it’s hard to control one’s subconscious idea formations, influenced by implicit attitudes and biases that we are often unaware of. This is why when it comes to selling a home, curb appeal is key in making positive first impressions. As hot summer days begin to come to an end, and fall rolls into view (with a gentle breeze and a hint of pumpkin spice tinging the air), it’s important to consider fall curb appeal and decoration ideas that are sure to catch homebuyers eyes this season.
Lawn Management
One of the most fun aspects of a curb appeal is the “pop of color”. In the fall, this is often one of the easiest things to manage, as naturally trees are sporting beautiful and warm oranges and reds. “Brilliant fall foliage automatically can make your home look more attractive for showings, but that doesn't mean you can slack off on lawn maintenance during this season. Keep falling leaves at bay with frequent raking and patch up any brown spots in the grass” (HGTV).
Highlight the Front Door
Another important design aspect of curb appeal is to lead the eyes where you want them to go. In this case, you want the homebuyer to come in, so lead them visually towards the door. This means highlighting the front door to become a sort of focal point in your home's exterior. This doesn’t mean crowd the patio, but rather be deliberate and intentional in your placement. For example, in the first two photos you can see the placement of props is angled inward, leading the eyes to the center, being the front door. The third shows that sometimes more can be less, and the singular wreath draws attention to the door.
Fall Color Palette
Intertwining a typical fall color palette with your home’s preexisting design creates such an “at home” fall feeling, enticing to many potential home buyers. Nature’s vibrant array of yellows, oranges, reds, and more complementary colors can help bring your home decor together. Using vibrant colors sparingly, focus on a handful of hues throughout your design.
Dress up your Mailbox
A fun and unique idea to spruce up your curb appeal is to decorate your mailbox! Since typically mailbox’s are further from the front of the home, this avoids cluttering the porch and lawn, and still shows you going above and beyond! This adds an extra fall flair to your curb appeal and brings a seasonal coziness.
DO NOT go overboard
As aforementioned, sometimes doing more can be the demise of some people’s design. Subtle curb appeal makes homes feel cozy and inviting, while too much can be overwhelming and distracting. It’s important to remember that while yes, the front of the house crafts first impressions, potential buyers are more interested on what’s inside— their homes. Don’t overwhelm yourself in working on the front yard and undervalue other parts of the showing.
★ Most importantly, remember that if design isn’t your forte, curb appeal is not the end all be all of your selling process. These ideas are relatively easy ways to spruce up your decoration and fun ways to integrate a fresh fall look! As always, should you have a need for real estate in the North Atlanta area, Lucido Global with Keller Williams North Atlanta is here to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Give us a call at 404-242-9908 or email us at GinaSharma@LucidoGlobal.com .
