Curb appeal is an important factor, whether you are selling a home or remodeling it for the long term. As you plan your home improvement projects, take a look around the exterior of your home and find ways to remodel for curb appeal.

Examine Windows Carefully

As you walk around your house, notice how the windows affect the overall style and character of your house. Would your curb appeal improve with new windows that fit properly and have energy efficient features? A remodeling contractor can offer advice on how replacement windows can:

• Add a fresh, new look to all sides of your house
• Add new architectural elements to spruce up the style of your home
• Eliminate the need to paint old wood windows

If you'd like to replace your windows but are on a budget, you can also add windows in stages to fit your budget.

Consider New Vinyl Siding

The vinyl siding on your house also has a dramatic affect on your curb appeal. If your siding is old or in need of repair, talk with a siding contractor to discuss your options. You might need to:

• Replace the siding, which will give you the opportunity to change the color of your home
• Repair and paint the siding to freshen the look
• Add siding to another part of your home

Try Paint to Boost Curb Appeal

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a home, whether the surface is aluminum siding, stucco or wood. A painting or remodeling contractor can offer advice on how to add a crisp new look to blend with your other exterior projects. Consider:

• A bold paint color, such as red or bright blue, for your trim
• A crisp white paint to brighten the exterior facade
• Painting your front and back doors a bold color
• Coordinating your landscaping colors with your exterior paint colors

Remodel Your Landscaping

Is your landscaping nonexistent or boring? Do the skimpy bushes in front do enough to create a mood and welcome people to the yard? If your landscaping is unappealing, it can detract from the overall view of your house. The solution is to ask a landscaping contractor for suggestions on:

• Adding new shrubs or trees that will add a mix of seasonal color, shade, privacy, and fragrance
• Where to carve out curved flowerbeds
• Adding a patio or deck for outdoor entertainment
• Repairing or replacing a cracked sidewalk
• Adding landscape lighting around a walkway, the front porch, or other key areas of the home

There are many ways to remodel the exterior of your house. Replacement windows, new siding, painting, and landscaping all can help boost your home's curb appeal.

About the Author Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.