How To Add Character to Your Home

Here's How:

1. For an inexpensive solution, give that blah house a fresh coat of paint using several accent colors.
2. Remove outdated aluminum siding. Wonderful features may be hidden beneath.
3. Consider using a new surface treatment such as stucco or stone relief.
4. Place new windows in existing openings. Or, fill in some windows and enlarge others.
5. Add window and door moldings, cornices and other details.
6. Transform the landscaping. Plant new trees or hedges.
7. Add interest with shutters, awnings and arches.
8. Build a covered entry way.
9. Build a deck, covered patio or porch.
10. Open interior ceilings to create vaulting heights.
11. Build a new addition to the front or side of your existing home.
12. Change the entire profile with a raised roof or gabled dormers.

Tips:

1. Keep it simple: Too many ornaments or an oversized addition will overwhelm your house.
2. Preserve light and space: Make sure that new additions don't fill your entire lot.
3. Consider resale value: Costly additions won't raise your home's price above neighborhood standards.