How to Improve Your Curb Appeal

Apartment Curb Appeal

It’s that time of the year! The weather is warm, the flowers are blooming, and the air smells like fresh mulch. Curb appeal season is here!

Curb appeal is a phrase used by real estate professionals to discuss the appearance of an apartment the moment a potential resident first lays eyes on the place. This moment is often overlooked by apartment managers who focus heavily on the interior. However, seeing a beautiful exterior can greatly increase the chances that potential residents will be interested in living there. Even photos of an attractive exterior online can increase the likelihood of someone wanting to live there. Plus, current residents will feel more proud and content where they live, leading to more renewals and positive perspectives.

Here are a few ways you can dramatically yet simply improve your curb appeal:

1. Landscaping – Establish a positive relationship with your landscaping provider.
   1. Make it colorful! Bright flowers that coordinate with well-placed greenery and fresh mulch always catch the eyes of passersby.
   2. Simplify to help you stay on top of your curb appeal.
   3. Keep up with lawn duties. Make sure to fertilize, aerate, and mow regularly.
   4. Fill pots and containers with trees, shrubs, and/or flowers, especially, if your complex is located in a tight urban area.
2. Lighting – All buildings and parking lots should be well lit.
   1. Balance is crucial. Avoid dark areas as well as overly-lit areas.
   2. Tenants will feel safer.
   3. Potential residents will be more likely to find your property.
3. Painting – If the paint is in bad condition, potential residents may not look inside.
   1. Add a fresh coat, if the paint is faded.
   2. Touch up the paint in smaller areas like the trim, door, and shutters.
   3. If the siding is decaying, you should change it.
4. Parking Lot – Well-maintained parking lots are safe and aesthetically pleasing.
   1. Watch for and maintain proper water drainage.
   2. Re-stripe your lines if they are faded.
   3. Do a seal coat or fill in cracks. Both protect your parking lot from deterioration.
5. Signage – A simple drive by your sign could advertise your community.
   1. Use the space next to your sign for a flowerbed, a bench, small water feature, or statuary to invite potential residents into the property.
   2. Reflect the property’s style and brand in the sign(s).
   3. Make sure your sign is clear and legible for both current and potential residents.