In this post you will learn....

• How to add curb appeal to your home on a budget. 
• What can you do to increase the energy efficiency of your home.

If the exterior of your home is beginning to look dated or unattractive, there are some ways to give it some great curb appeal once again. This is especially important if you are planning to sell your home since many potential buyers judge a home by how it looks from the street. However, even if you are not planning to sell anytime soon, you may want to give your exterior an update for both aesthetic reasons and energy efficiency.

Improving Energy Efficiency with Your Update

Especially for houses that are 15 years or older, it is wise to consider improvements that will increase the value of your home. These upgrades will pay you back in terms of lower energy bills and increased home value.

Replace your Windows: Replacing old drafty windows is one of the best things you can do for your home and your pocketbook. Windows are a major source of energy loss in a home in both the winter and summer since heat and cool air can transfer through the glass itself and the window’s casing. When shopping for new windows, compare the windows’ Energy Performance Ratings. In terms of style and design, consider the size of the window opening and how a new product could update the look of your home. For example, a picture window may look very dated. But replacing it with a stylish new bow or bay window can give your home greater curb appeal and add more space and function to your interior as well.

Replace your Doors: Old doors can be drafty too, and new doors also come with Energy Performance Ratings. When purchasing a new front door, be sure to consider the style of your home. From Craftsman style bungalows to Victorian farmhouses, the options are virtually endless, and you can get a great new look while also saving energy and improving the security of your home.

New Siding: New siding creates an instant update and you can choose a new color that will give your home an entirely new personality. While vinyl siding is very popular, you may also want to consider upgrading to a product known as Hardie Fiber Cement Siding. This product is very durable and is as beautiful as wood shake siding without the splitting, warping and upkeep of wood.

The added benefit of all these home exterior upgrades is that they will greatly reduce the amount of maintenance your home needs. No longer will you have to glaze and caulk windows, scrape and paint trim or have the exterior of your home painted or stained.

Instant Curb Appeal that is Easy on the Budget

Update home exterior pieces and parts if sizable upgrades are not in the budget or are not needed at this time. If you’d still like to improve the curb appeal exterior, consider the following lower cost upgrades.

• Add Accent Siding: All the siding on your home does not have to be the same. Accent areas, such as facades above a doorway or peaked areas, can be upgraded to shake style siding or specialty products like fish scale siding. These add personality in small doses. Trim accents like pilasters, crown moldings, pillars and railings can also boost architectural appeal.
• Paint your Front Door: Just by painting the front door in a fresh new color, you can get an upgrade for the cost of a can of paint. Take color cues from the color of your siding and existing color schemes in your neighborhood. Popular color choices are black, deep green, burgundy, mahogany brown; even bolder choices like teal, yellow or paprika red might suit your home and neighborhood.
• Update Door Hardware: New door hardware comes in a wide array of colors and finishes. From knockers and kick plates to beautifully ornate handles and lock sets, the styles and finishes, such as black iron, brass, nickel and antique bronze are nearly endless.
• Welcoming Touches: Little things mean a lot when it comes to the front of your home! A great piece of metal wall art on a bare expanse of space, pots of flowers, a bench or rocking chair on the porch and other welcoming touches give visitors a glimpse into your decorative personality.

Matching the upgrades you need and want with your budget and goals is a great way to increase the value and appeal of your home, whether you are planning to move or settle in.