So, I own this house that I don’t live in. It’s a long story. Maybe I’ll tell it sometime. For now, all you need to know is that the front of the house looks busted.
Ok, so it is winter which makes everything look extra depressing, but this old girl needs some serious help. I really want to put in some work this spring and summer and bring her back to life a little bit.
I’m trying to keep things realistic since 1. I’m not handy, and 2. I’m poor, but here a few things I think I can get done that won’t completely wreck Wyatt’s college fund or my sanity:
Paint the front door. I’m leaning toward a really dark gray so it’ll pop but not be too in-your-face. The goal is to sell the house eventually so that seems like a better option. Although don’t get me started on how many teal doors I’ve looked at on Pinterest.
Replace or paint the window boxes. I think I might get a couple more and space them out differently too. This is how they were when I bought the house and I’ve never been thrilled with how it looks. But the tan definitely has to go. The previous owner clearly didn’t have an issue with that color scheme. Seriously, look at how sad they are.
Replace the door mat. I’ve got my eye on a teal one from Target. Mama likes teal.
Strip and paint all the trim work white. This is going to the most challenging and labor intensive part. I honestly have no idea what I’m doing so that should be fun. Also, if someone could remind me next month that I don’t want to wait until it’s blazing hot to do it, that would be great. And if you’re so inclined, pray that the wood isn’t a rotted mess under all that paint. I’m scared.
Replace or paint the door hardware. I need all shiny brass out of my life ASAP.
I know you can’t see them because it’s an overgrown mess, but there are two flowerbeds in there under the windows. I need to clean those out and plant something pretty but low-maintenance there. And seriously, I’m pretty sure there’s an old doormat in there too. Why.
And finally, I need to clean up the massive amount of leaves and weeds. I’m tempted to just light the entire yard on fire, but I think that might be counterproductive.
I haven’t given too much thought to colors and style (well, except for that doormat) but here are a few inspiration pics I’m working off of:
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That will look great! I really want that doormat too. I visit it every time I go to Target.
There’s nothing there (assuming the wood underneath is OK!) that a little TLC and time can’t cure. When you go to list, get good photos taken on a nice day and they’ll really pop. If you’re selling, I wouldn’t worry about the brass fixtures if it’s working fine – they’re pricey relative to everything else (like a doormat).
And more color! (achievable with azaleas or other colorful bushes) Color pops.
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