It’s All About Curb Appeal

Spring has finally arrived! Local nurseries are overflowing with gorgeous flowers, shrubs, and trees – and swarming with do-it-your-selfers who can’t wait to start beautifying their yards.  Whether you have a green thumb or plan to work with a landscaper, it’s important to remember that the curb appeal of your home can significantly add to its value.

There are thousands of tips for yard design, planting, and maintenance online, and garden centers are happy to answer your questions.  But here are a few basics to keep in mind…

Start with your lawn. Keep it green, watered, and neatly mowed.  Reseed bare spots, and control the weeds.  Spring is generally a good time to plant trees, as well, adding shade and visual interest to your home.  But choose trees carefully, giving consideration to where you locate them and their eventual height.  When fully mature, a tree should accent your home’s architecture, not overpower it.  And don’t forget to check the location of utility lines before planting, as tree roots can become a huge problem over time.

Shrubs and flowers add still more curb appeal, but think about color. Choose blooming plants that complement your home’s exterior colors.  For year-round variety, mix annuals and perennials that bloom at different times, and arrange flower beds with the taller plants at the rear.

Warm weather means outdoor entertaining, and a well-planned backyard – with attractive plantings and hardscaping, a patio for grilling, or a fire pit – can further enhance your home’s value.

And if you’re planning to build this spring, McKelvey Homes is ready for you. No need to start a lawn! – your yard will be fully sodded.  McKelvey can also assist with the landscaping and outdoor living spaces that will ensure the enjoyment and curb appeal of your new home for years to come. Stop by one of our two communities in O’Fallon, The Villages at Montrachet or Muirfield Manor, to check out our outdoor living spaces.