SFGate

misecretary My first concern would be the roof. I would be worried about the mold (?) by the front door.
Looks as if this pic was taken in the--no leaves, no flowers, everyhting is brown-- makes a dull photo.
In the next photo, don't have vehicle parked in front of garage.
I personally would love to get inside to look around though.

AMN More landscaping to soften the lines of the home where it meets the earth, as well as, the walkway to the entry would help.

MLS should not have cars in the pic, ideally.

Poor MLS pics are one of my pet-peeves. I wish brokers/agents would take a photog course and apply what they learn.

All About Closets I agree about the time of year the photo was taken. Can you exclude the high voltage power lines in the upper right side of the photo. Do you live by a power distribution system? That tree sticks out like a sore thumb in the photo. Can you shoot the photo from a different angle to not place so much emphasis on the tree. Loose the cars. Especially backed in. Looks like you cant wait to get out! Is that a Christmas Wreath on your front door? What is on the ground around the condenser?

Are you saying people are visiting and not buying or not visiting due to the MLS photo. What does your reals estate agent say? Can you post interior photos?

Pamela Villari It looks "cold" not very welcoming. Perhaps some bushes to soften up the front of the house and the walkway. Having just lost 2 trees in the last 2 storms...the big tree gives me pause. I am sure in the spring and summer it is beautiful, it just may frighten some buyers away. Planting some plants around the base of the tree would also "soften" up the yard. Does the little fence need to be at the front door? It seems to say "Stop!" . Could you make the front step go right where the fence is and make a little landing there that seems like it is saying "come on in"!.. Simple changes that could help.

alwaysdesigning I would agree with comments here. My pet peeve also is that realtors are usually not professional photographers and so the homeowner must demand some better photos. Realtors need to stage the home and hire a pro photographer if possible.

The homeowner can also help by doing what they can to make the house presentable. Remove cars in front, set up some "friendly" outdoor spaces with seating, get some bright but uncluttered plantings; remove the scragglies. Inside, be sure it shows like a model home. Remove everything from countertops, clean closets out, put things in storage and remove every scrap of clutter and personal wall hangings and photos, etc. Our house sold before we even listed it with a realtor.

Review websites on home staging for ideas. And, if no showings, then get a new realtor who knows their stuff. Research listings to find someone who can photograph and stage well. Good luck

Jayme Hobbs Is the brick stained and/or could that be addressed? Maybe a new railing on the porch? Definately need some landscaping to warm it up...How much work do u want to do?

Jayme Hobbs This house looks warmer to me. The darker trim looks richer. Maybe if your trim matched your garage peak? Also wondering about thicker support posts on your entry area? And of course, landscaping..

lefty47 HI -- The house looks sad and plain . It looks like it may need up-dating . The front porch is unwelcomeing because the railing is across the front like a barrier. So I would say landscaping is largely needed for balance and color . A nice even row of foundation plants across the front instead of just the one clump under the bay window. I don't like the roof color and the fact that there is no over hang on the roof but that is not something that you would want to fix to sell.So , I really thnk if you put a big effort into the landscaping it will sell this spring. Also, maybe add some shutters and maybe paint all the trim a light tan or cream.

Kathryn Peltier Design First of all, that railing across the front of the front door is very unwelcoming. I would remove it, or if you want to reuse it, put it on the side (the porch entrance now). Then add some kind of paver in front of the porch (so the sidewalk turns in an el) with some large flower pots on either side in the spring (it will be here soon, right???) Perhaps add a small bench or a birdbath - something of visual interest - at the now dead-end sidewalk. I think the dark peak over the garage is rather foreboding - I would paint it (or is this stain?) in a lighter color. I think a gray-green would be pretty with your brick. I would then add board-and-batten shutters to your windows - they are small and would benefit from some more definition. If you decided to do this, make sure to read up on the correct sizing for shutters. I think with these additions, some clean-up (the brick and the roof?) and some foundation plantings, this can look like an intriguing cottage!

anitajoyce Shutters and landscaping the yard with more shrubs and some flowers to brighten up the place. gShrubs with some color like red or yellow in them will help add interest to the yard.

Jayme Hobbs I thought shutters would look good too..but there will be an issue with the one small window near the entrance, it appears.

Kathryn Peltier Design @Jayme: I meant to add that those two windows in the front should have one large shutter open to one side. The one over the garage can have two.

Jayme Hobbs Some plants that are so attractive are grasses..they can fill an area so nicely and add texture, color and interest..but some spread so if u use them, be aware of which varieties do.

Jayme Hobbs @Kathryn Peltier Design...I see what u mean..maybe that could work out fine.

Jayme Hobbs Some grasses/plants. I like using plants like the spiral plant to fill in spaces..such as between windows if it looks awkward.

mckstacy I agree w/Kathryn Peltier...remove that front railing! It serves no purpose. You could tie the front porch area into the sidewalk in a very welcoming way w/pavers, large pots w/bright flowers, etc... Use a couple of substantial columns, in a dark gray in place of the railing. Paint the rest of trim, including the white, the same dark gray. Remove the screen door & paint the door a rich bright glossy mustardy yellow! I know it sounds awful - but look at Houzz's front door colors. And finally, does that strange looking over-hang at the garage door HAVE TO BE THERE? It looks like an awkward afterthought. And it would look great to paint the flashing and gutters a color to match the brick!

Linda Shutters are awkward for a house with a bay window. Shutters should be the right size to actually cover the window if closed, so banks of multiple windows or bays just don't work.

Retake the exterior photo many times - digital cameras are great!. Start at one end of the property and walk to the other end, taking a photo every couple of feet. Review the pics to see which area looks most appealing and concentrate the next round on that location. Then, take shots from ground height pointed up, midheight pointed straight ahead and also from a high vantage point. Try different times of day also. Crop the photo so more emphasis is placed on the house and less lawn is visible. Take dozens of out door pictures and then give the best one to the agent for the listing. Yes, photos are the agent's job, but it is still your house and you have a vested interest so why not take your own?

blisscottage06 I agree with the comments about better photos - I sold my house last year and was amazed at the different photos various prospective listing agents came up with- some made the house look much better than others. A blue sky day helps, too. And make sure the agent updates the photos every couple of weeks, as the grass greens up, and the tree shows some color.

eagledzines Needs shutters on gable end, some greenery, no tree, curved walkway

Kimberlee Marie Interior Design I stage homes and cannot stress enough how important GOOD profesional photos are when listing your home! Most buyers are finding their homes via an online search so if you do not have a strong first impression online, buyers will not even come to check out the house. All of the recommendations given so far are good. Add shutters, landscaping is a MUST even for a pop of color and charm from the curb and remove all vehicles from the photo. I also agree that the photo should be taken from a different angle to minimize the visual impact of the large tree in the front yard. Good luck!

ruthadams Needs to be softened down outside with some greenery that has round shapes and interesting heights. House color is too blah. Could even put on contrasting shutters you can make yourself out of 2x6"s

lc29 Some areas require a porch railing if there is a certain amount of drop off from the porch, make it more inviting by adding a railing planter (like a window box, but for railings. Add shutters and a window box to the second story window over the garage. If you don't have much of a green thumb many garden centers will plant the boxes for you, just specify easy to care for plants like geraniums and make sure to get the care instructions! If you plant some landscaping below the two shorter windows they won't look so small, as it is now there is too much space between the windows and the ground. Paint your front door an accent color, maybe a deep rust color? It looks like your roof has moss or mildew on it. A professional with a power washer can clean that off without damaging your roof. As it looks now it makes a prospective buyer think it needs replacing.

Jennifer Smith The wide front yard it has will surely make me buy this one. Though it looks like dull in the photo, but I will still love to see what is inside of it and what I can do to improve it.

sgausman Wow, thank you for all the comments! Some commented on the roof - it's moss, and I suspect could be removed without too much trouble.We are so used to it, we don't even think about it, but I'm sure I would question it on a house I was considering for purchase.

Thanks for the photoshopped picture, eagledzines. I have a hard time visualizing, so being able to see what you are suggesting made a huge difference! We had considered shutters in the past. I think a set on the window above the garage would be an easy addition. (My husband is handy.) The wires are just the electrical wires coming into the house. We don't have underground utilities here. Could be taken out of the photos without too much trouble.

apple_pie_order In priority order:

Clean moss off the roof, paint the gable a light brown similar to brick, remove railing or add flower boxes, add gallon-size blooming plants around the base of the big tree, add gallon-size blooming plants along front of house. To see what size plants you need, take a basketball and a trashcan outside, put them in front of the railing or along the front of the house and take photos from the same distance as this one.

Normally, I would not put blooming flowers around the base of the tree, but this one will be photographed in winter or early spring, and it needs some pretty oomph added to it. If you can reseed your lawn soon, do it. A lush green lawn is hugely attractive in photos. I also suggest spending a hundred dollars having the big tree's branch that appears to grab the garage removed.

Your comments about being used to seeing the moss indicates that your agent has not conveyed the message that a house has to be seen with fresh eyes when selling. I think you would be well advised to consider hiring a home stager. She will tell you what needs doing in the interior, too, which I suspect may need considerable spiffing up, too. In the meantime, get started by reading a book on home staging such as "Home Staging for Dummies", which, despite its title, is outstanding.

The photos should be done on a blue sky day with the sun illuminating the front of the house. Early morning and evening are often the best times. No cars in driveway.

It is often recommended that home sellers plan to spend 1% of the purchase price every year on maintenance and 1-2% on fixing up the house for sale. In a tough market for sellers, you need to make your house stand out from the competition.

sgausman Should we paint the shaker shingles over the garage door side? If we add a set of shutters, what color? Also, someone suggested painting the front door a mustardy yellow. The bricks are a pinkish shade - see attached close-up. Would yellow with the pink brick? Finally, the window trim. To paint or not? If so, darker was suggested. How do you decide what colors to use, and how to make sure trim, door, and the shaker shingles coordinate?

The railing in front of the front door was added (by us) when we removed an overgrown, 50 year old shrub. I thought it looked good when we added it, but now, seeing the comments about it being unwelcoming makes me rethink this.

Obviously, we want to sell the house, so I'm not looking for what "I" like, but what has general appeal. I'm not opposed to making a statement, though.

After implementing suggestions for staging the inside of our house, our realtor was very willing to take updated pics for the MLS. I'm sure he would take new ones or any post pics we take once we spruce up the outside.

sgausman Here's a picture of the front of the house before the huge shrub was removed...just found it.

apple_pie_order IMHO, shutters on this house are a waste of money because they are not 'missing' from the original design, nor are they in keeping with the architectural style. Put your money in landscaping. Paint all the trim with a new coat of soft white and the front door, too. It sounds like you can remove the rail which would be a huge improvement. If your husband wants to make white flower boxes for under the windows, those would be wonderfully bright and cheery.

For taking the house photo, put an invisible uplight to illuminate the underside of the porch roof and front door. Light, bright and airy.

rubecofi I am a professional photographer and think the angle of this photo could be greatly improved. If the photograph was taken from the right and closer to the house (sweeping across the landscape),it would take out the high line wires and show the side lines of the house - which I think are rather attractive.

Definitely remove the cars!!

rubecofi Oh and I LOVE shutters! That would definitely add charm.

Carolina Photo To Go LLC I definitely would add shutters. I would consider white or black shutters. Flowers also help if it is warm enough where you are. I would hang a planter off the railing of your house. Definitely supervise the pics that are posted on the web and the description of the highlights of your house, the neighborhood, schools and neighborhood. Make your own flyers to hand out in your house. If there is even a nice walking trail close by mention it or a safe park. If the schools win awards mention it. Some people will even move to certain areas if there is a great football team or other sport so their kids will have a chance t a scholarship..
Really market your own house and stage it. Research your realtor. How well do they market and have they won awards. Do not choose a realtor just because they are someone's friend. And don't renew your contract if you are not getting showings. Bake cookies right before it shows so the house smells inviting but clean up the mess. I used to flip houses. One time when we were selling a house that we lived in we had chicken cooking in a crock pot. It smelled yummy and it was the showing during which the house sold.

There is also a show on TV HGTV I believe, that is designed to sell. It mentions to make sure all the wall colors are neutral b/c people dont want to repaint when they move in and their furniture might not go with the color you put on the wall. Definitely no pink. They also emphasizing decluttering and taking down all family photographs. They state the people need to be able to envision themselves in the space. The Property Brothers also have a new show in which they upgrade a persons house to sell it which can make sense. Get on the internet and look at your competition. If everyone in the area has upgraded to granite or better appliances, it will make your house more difficult to sell if you do not upgrade.

Kathryn Peltier Design Again, I would paint the trim in a gray green. This can be a beautiful complement to the color brick you have. I would use two shades of it: a medium shade on the windows themselves and darker on the shutters and other trim. I would do the gable end and the garage door to match the window frames.

I would still advocate for shutters, 2 on the window over the garage and a single large shutter for each of the small windows to the right of the front door. Of course you would not put shutters on a bay window. Your home has a cottagey, asymmetrical appearance so all windows do not need to be treated the same way. This will, in fact, up the charm factor! I would then paint the front door (including the storm/screen door) in an orangey-tone to again complement the brick.

It looks like you already have a planting bed around that lovely old tree. It looks like the crown of the tree is high enough that you probably get some decent sun under it, so I would plant it fairly tightly with some salmon colored geraniums. They are sturdy and keep the blooms coming - just what you need for constant color. If it is shady, then just use the old standby, impatiens, in the same color! One more thing that I think would really add charm would be a good looking window box under the garage window, overplanted with similar flowers to the front yard and vines.

Simplifying in the Suburbs
Susan Wallace
Traditional Surprise

I don't know why I can't get these paint samples to show up here, but I can't. Try Benjamin Moore 2008-20 Claret Rose for the front door, and Sherwin Williams SW 2816 Rookwood Green for the trim and SW 2812 Rookwood Jade for the windows.

Kathryn Peltier Design http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/claretrose

http://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-family/SW2816/

http://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-family/SW2812/?WT.mc_id=Old%20DIY%20Color%20Redirect

handymam I really love your house, and your yard, and I would look at it if I were looking. Made a list of what I would do to the outside, since that is what you asked...

Clean the moss. Easy enough to do.

Don't paint any trim unless it is to refresh what is already there. A lot of people like white trim and would not want to have to paint over brown. If it is white, they can choose what they like. It's just not necessary.

I actually like the garage overhang, it adds a little interest to an otherwise dull part of a house.

I would suggest shutters for all windows except the bay windows. You can add color that way. Most shutters are there now for decoration anyway and not to be used. A nice medium green would carry a garden feel even further. Use that on the garage door if you like too. Paint front door in a glossy finish. Some larger house numbers would add some bling.

Keep the rail, you have a drop off there. A lowgrowing juniper might be nice there with a window box on the railing as someone already suggested. Window box on window over the garage would be a nice touch too. As soon as the weather allows, you could plant some cool weather annuals in them like pansies.

Keep the tree, it balances out the house and is a lovely old tree. Hostas planted around the base would be striking. A dwarf alberta spruce on each corner of the bay window would soften the front of the house nicely. Just plant them far enough out that there is room to grow. Replacing the evergreen under the bay window with a hydrangea would be nice too. I think you should use the summer pic you posted second. Even though the buses are gone in front of the rail now, it is green and better reflects the house than the winter pic.

I really like your house whether you do any of the changes we are suggesting or not. :)

curacaoblue There are a lot of great suggestions but many are large investments. There are some that you can do without investing a lot of money. Cleaning the roof and removing the cars are big issues. Please do not photoshop out wires. It is deceptive. It's one thing to take the photo from another angle which I think is a good idea btw, but photoshopping them out is another thing all together. If some one comes to see the house and sees that you did that they will start to wonder if you are hiding other things. That is never a good thing. I also think touching up paint can help. Not much you can do about the lawn or landscaping this time of year and hopefully it'll sell before you can do anything about it. Good luck!

Interiors International, Inc. If I could buy it for $20,000 It would be a good rental. Sorry, it's just totally not me in any way. That doesn't mean that many people will love it.

OSIRIUS DESIGNS Do shutters and do a dark stain trim. Take more than one picture of house at different angles. If you can do so I would suggest adding some shrubbery along the bare wall and maybe a small privacy hedge along sidewalk. Ideally you want greenery, a little paint and some shutters. Also compare the most recent sale on your block with a comparable home. And based on that sold price, condition of home and when and how long was on market before it sold. First impressions are essential to attract anyone. Make sure the roof is cleaned.
If it's been sitting on market for too long. Take it off, fix it up and realist with attractive photos and more curb appeal. Good luck!

Sweet Caroline Garden Design Lots of good suggestions above, but the thing I see lacking the most is a landscape and a defined entrance. Go to your local garden center with pics and measurements and have them help you select some good shrubs ( broadleaf evergreens such as azaleas, rhodos, etc , or blooming deciduous ) and fill in the empty beds but don't plant too close to the foundation. They will often plant them for a reasonable fee. Create a curved bed around the tree and fill it with annuals , perennials, ornamental grass, etc. and add a nice layer of mulch. Remove railing from porch, create a small paved landing and wider walkway. Add two containers with colorful plants near entrance. My 2 cents worth. Here's a doodle for you.

Sweet Caroline Garden Design P.S. The white trim does nothing for the home's architecture - I agree with the above suggestion to go darker to add interest .

mollythecollie I have to agree with most people here. Moss on the roof is usually a sign that the person buying the house may have to put on a new roof soon. Not what someone who is buying a house wants to immediately do, unless the price for the house reflects that. I also agree that the angle of the photo needs to be changed. The first thing I noticed was the limb that sticks out on the left side of the photo. It looks like the branch is either broken or ready to break. Also, the brick over the garage looks like it is stained. Have you had water problems from the window right above the darker bricks?
I think you have a nice house and love having a large yard. Just a few things can really make a difference. Don't forget that the pictures on the MLS site can really sell the house.

Jayme Hobbs I think the shutter idea over the garage window is good...and/or installing wider window trim on all of the windows...it seems skimpy..also still feel darker trim warms up the look.

kysunshine An inexpensive idea may be to add shutters to the windows, flowerbaskets under the windows or even on the front railing. Defintiely have the agent reshoot the pictures without the cars in the drive, and from a different angle. Colorful pansies or ornamental kale aroung the base of the tree might soften the yard inexpensively as well. Good Luck!!!

yilmazx I also agree that the angle of the photo needs to be changed. The first thing I noticed was the limb that sticks out on the left side of the photo. It looks like the branch is either broken or ready to break. Also, the brick over the garage looks like it is stained. Have you had water problems from the window right above the darker bricks? http://www.ozgedus.com/tr/

Jayme Hobbs I noticed the stains also (under small windows) and mentioned that and wondered if the brick needed washing or if those stains were permanent.

pipeman1 Before you invest any money in improvements, talk to your real estate agent. We recently made about $15,000 worth of improvements to our home to sell it. When our agent came over, she said it was beautiful, but in today's market we would probably not recoup that investment. However, on the positive side, I am enjoying the remodel greatly while we are waiting on a buyer!

Jayme Hobbs I too, would go the least expensive route. I would concentrate on painting, adding in some plants, getting the moss off the roof and stains off brick if possible.

handymam A couple thousand or less to do things to fix your home for sale cosmetically, is what they do on the "makeover" shows and it usually is enough if spent wisely. Beyond that, you might not get back what you put in.

glitterexploding Need landscaping...flowers around the tree, shrubs around the house. A bush of Blooming Roses by the door always lightens up a house beautifully. Power wash the outside, especially the driveway.

anitajoyce How about a new roof and painting the garage . Remove the rails from the front door area also.

lastplace It's obvious... its your front entrance. First glance you have to look hard to find it. The railing across the front of it makes it look like we are looking at the back of the house. Start there, little cost.

Gene Longo Since the market is down - you have to do inexpensive things that (1) make your house pop on the internet (it's all about the internet) and (2) when people drive up to your home - make them want to come in and take a closer look. Winter is always hard to sell a house - things look dreary. I agree with the landscaping suggestions - but depending on where you live this could be too early to do landscaping - but as soon as your weather is ready - very important. Secondly - remove the car from the driveway - never good to have a car blocking your garage. Third - Paint. If you can do this yourself is should not be too costly - the brown peak - brown is one of the least favorite colors for buyers. Do a neutral shade that compliments the brick - or bring in tone on tone color to coordinate with the brick (I cannot tell if your brick is more pink or more beige) and I would consider painting the garage door the same color. You should pop your front door with a great color. Then add the bling - shutters on window on the second story above the garage - and then the little things like a new doormat, colorful pot of flowers near the front door.

Gene Longo Since the market is down - you have to do inexpensive things that (1) make your house pop on the internet (it's all about the internet) and (2) when people drive up to your home - make them want to come in and take a closer look. Winter is always hard to sell a house - things look dreary. I agree with the landscaping suggestions - but depending on where you live this could be too early to do landscaping - but as soon as your weather is ready - very important. Secondly - remove the car from the driveway - never good to have a car blocking your garage. Third - Paint. If you can do this yourself is should not be too costly - the brown peak - brown is one of the least favorite colors for buyers. Do a neutral shade that compliments the brick - or bring in tone on tone color to coordinate with the brick (I cannot tell if your brick is more pink or more beige) and I would consider painting the garage door the same color. You should pop your front door with a great color. Then add the bling - shutters on window on the second story above the garage - and then the little things like a new doormat, colorful pot of flowers near the front door.

blisscottage06 I agree with Gene Longo above. I just noticed the brackets under the garage over-hang. I wonder if you could add two more similar under the roof of the front door overhang, for a bit more "bling" Having a covered entrance is always a plus in my book, and that might call a little attention to it. Others have suggested removing that railing - if you can do that without leaving a dangerous drop off from the front porch, that would help too. And adding some contrasting color is an excellent, low cost suggestion - a design principle I try to follow is to draw the eye to the front door to welcome people in - not so much to the garage/car entrance!

sgausman @Gene Longo - brick is more pinkish. Obviously, monitors vary tremendously, but I posted a close up of the brick earlier in the comments and on my monitor, it's pretty true to life.

Thanks for the input. I picked up some paint samples the other day and think we'll paint the door tomorrow. I'm leaning toward the orangey-red (BM claret rose, 2008-20) someone suggested. I wasn't concerned until the salesperson at the Benjamin Moore store said she thinks it might read a bit neon in real life.

Porch railing will be easy to remove. It is a bit early here to (zone 6) to start spring planing.

For those who suggested painting window trim - only problem is that windows are vinyl. They're not (thank goodness) wrapped in vinyl, though. Also, the window dividers are between the panes and cannot be painted. (Energy-efficient replacement windows....) Could be tricky and a PITA to paint the vinyl.

Kathryn Peltier Design Sgausman, can you get a small sample of the Claret Rose? Sometimes you can even find a very similar color in the acrylic craft paints - I have done that quite often. You can paint a piece of poster board and see what it looks like. It is really hard to select paint samples online (I was the one who recommended that color)) so maybe you will have to tone it down, Trying it where it will be used, however, is the only real way to know. You have a deep overhang over the door, putting the door in shadow, so you want to make sure you get a color that "reads" from the street.

sgausman @karhryn peltier- Don't you think a brighter color would work under the overhang? I think the shadows might tone it down- and I don't think it's that bright.

longogene I just looked up your color for the door - I love it - it is more Coral which can look great on some doors. Another color that I think goes well with a pinkish brick is a muted green - not as dark as olive 0 green with a tinge of yellow. If you do the Claret Rose - consider adding black shutters to the window on the second floor. Use some other black accents - like a large glazed black pot for flowers on your porch area. You can find inexpensive shutters at most Big Box Home Improvement Stores already painted black. On the two smaller windows - add black iron window boxes. You will soon be able to plant early Spring flowers like pansies, primroses, and ivy - all will do well in the cool spring weather. The color you picked for the front door is fun - just be sure to do it in flat or semi gloss - not high gloss or it will GLOW!

Kathryn Peltier Design Yes, I do think it will work. I just wanted you to know that I am looking at the color online, so my monitor may not be right on. Like I said, try it - it's just paint and you could always take it back and have them tone it down a bit if you think it's too bright. But I think bright will be pretty (just not "neon" lol)!

Kathryn Peltier Design Another photo of the kind of shutters I would recommend, especially for the small single windows.

longogene Love the shutters.

sgausman @kathryn- assuming you would hang single shutters to the right of each window, as there isn't room to hang to left of left window?

Kathryn Peltier Design Yes, for the two single windows, and then regular double shutters for the one over the garage. Just make sure they're either half the size of the window (garage) or the full width of the window (small single windows).

Katheryn Becker I would change out the windows for larger ones - ADD SOME FLOWER BEDS - add some hostes bellow the front windows and SOME FLOWER BOXES

fiddledeedee Unify paint , maybe a cream color (including the part above the garage). Add Shutters. Take railing off. Replace sidewalk with a more curvy sidewalk. Lush foundation plantings, using plants that are native to that area. Change door color to a burgundy or a complementary color to the trim.

Amy Stanley I like your house, the realtor photo needs updating it does nothing for your home. I personally wouldn't paint the trim dark I think the white is fine, if it needs touching up then freshen it up. If you start you will end up needing to change the color of the garage door too. Power-wash your brick and roof that will do wonders. I don't know where you live but my lawn is non-existent at the moment because of snow. Are you somewhere where you can even plant/paint anything?

Pat Griffith I love the big tree, I would like to see an arbor in front of the garage with some clematis and a smaller one at the entry making a warm welcome at the front door - perhaps a seat to the side . milky white to go with the trim .

Mary Allison If the market will hold the cost, I would replace the window above the Garage with a larger picture window...it seems out of balance with the size of the section... I know everyone says loose your porch, but I think I would extend your porch further if not all the way down the front of the house... Make it look inviting with potted plants and chairs, That would solve a lot of the "welcoming" issues... a planting around the tree trunk would definitely soften the yard.. something not too invasive but shade tolerant cause it looks like that tree gives a lot of shade..

Susi Kline lack of landscaping is a huge problem as is the railing! the overhang over the garage is unslightly and the whole house screams "keep away" as there is nothing "friendly or welcoming" about it; perhaps change some colors but definately add plants and flowers

dvon Shutters on the windows and maybe a window box under the garage window. Flowers around the tree. Stepping stones that meander to the front porch instead of the straight ahead concrete walk. If that is too expensive, then maybe line the walk on each side with brick or flowers. If I owned the house, I would extend the front porch and deepen it.

njrealtor First i have not read any of the other responses.

There should not be a car in the drive way .

I would recommend taking pictures on a sunny day with the sun behind the photographer.
Next I would talk pictures at dusk with all of the interior lights on. Gives the house a warm glow and the house looks alive and occupied. If that picture is successful then use it as the main photo.
The huge tree is a plus and a minus.
Many would worry about leaves clogging the gutters, offer a one year gutter cleaning service. They come out 4 times a year and the cost is around $400. They reattach any gutters pulling away from the house too. Not sure what state your in but I recommend Ned Stevens http://nedstevens.com/service-plans.aspx . Maybe you have a company taking care of this already just extend the service as an incentive.
If you are not getting calls it may be the lack of staging or your home may be dated inside.
I am a Realtor(r) in NJ/PA and advise my clients to get their homes ready for sale. That may entail a bathroom update or a kitchen update, maybe paint or carpets. Many ask "will I get my money back" it depends on how much you spend on the improvements but more importantly you will have a better chance of selling if your home out shines your competition. Selling faster is always better then languishing on the market for months.

I would be glad to take a look at the pictures of the interior of your home and provide some feedback.
Good Luck,
Amed Din

Lynn Brokaw I had the exact same brick color.....and loved it, but it does tend to wash the photos out. I agree with Kathryn Peltier abt the shutters, and a handy husband can easily make them. Many people associate white trim with clean, so personally I wouldnt change that.` As for the porch, if you take the railing, would it be possible to put a step on that side too? That would open the entry, with steps on 2 sides, and enlarge the sidewalk area at the bottom. Potted plants would add color to the steps and draw attention. I would like to see the gable in a lighter shade....so that it didnt draw attention there first. I agree with the post that said not to spend a fortune. It makes no sense to enlarge windows, paint all trime, and on and on......when the goal is to sell. Do the minimum to make the house more pleasing to the eye, to open it and bring it all together. I wish you luck for a fast sale.

Lena C A smart buyer would see that the exterior of your home has potential; however, few buyers have that much imagination, so you do need to take the extra step of showing possibility. In this photo, you just need a little color to make it feel more inviting to take a look inside.

One way to do this without spending much money is by adding plants, as mentioned in some of the above comments. Temporary, sculptural pots/urns with vibrant evergreens could work for winter, or a hanging a window box on the outside of the railing filled with some red whatever's-in-season (poinsettias, impatiens) might be enough to draw the eye to a welcoming entrance and the promise of good things inside. Flowers tend to send a subconscious message that the current owners care about their home.

Also agree re driveway -- have another photo made without vehicles or any other items not directly related to the look of your house.

Mulch, as someone mentioned, could add a pop of color around your house for minimal cost, too. If you opt for a natural product, hemlock's color lasts longer than cedar. If you go with artificial coloring, there are many options on the market.

Re current photo: It would improve it immediately if you cropped it closer to the roof line. Not only will it eliminate the distracting bare tree limbs and grey sky, it will help focus your home as the main attraction. (I'd consider cropping the sidewalk out, too.)

Re. moss: We had a professional de-moss our roof, and you know what he used? Moss-Out. The stuff works like a charm.

Good luck! Hope you post your "after" pic too!

onlygirl73 If the budget is not huge and structural changes need to be kept to a minimum I would like to see the owners extend the front porch the width of the home. Paint the brick a sunny yellow. Add white shutters and a Red door. Add some flower beds along the front path. Add some good outdoor lighting and a lamp post between the tree and the sidewalk.

janistuckerhomes I am a Realtor and am very proud of the pictures I make. The pictures of your house probably won't bring prospective buyers into your house. Your house looks a little plain and uninviting. I'm sure it isn't, so you need to give a better impression to prospective buyers. I would soften the look by adding some landscaping. Some appropriate shrubs to the right of your steps. Also an ornamental tree in front of the area where the bay window is located. Some ornamental grass in the yard at the beginning of the sidewalk. A contrast color in paint would make the house pop more. Or you could add color with shutters. All of these fixes are very easy and pretty inexpensive if you do the work yourself. Another change to consider would be a more curved sidewalk. This would be more expensive but would really create an appealing look. The outside of your house has to catch the eye of a prospective buyer surfing the internet and cause him to want to take a second look inside. Much luck and hope your home sells soon!!

Jennifer Wood Shutters on the windows. Pretty sheer leave it to beaver priscilla crisscross type curtains in the windows. Hydrangea bush planted in front of the front door railing. colorful flowers around the large tree and along the sides of the walkway. Old fashioned rope swing hung from the tree.

Mitzi Johnson the extension on the right end of house looks a little out of place, if you have the money to put into it , changing that roof line with more height would probably help. ..also changing the porch would help., maybe do a little something to all the windows..like shutters (they are fairly cheap)..have shingles & house pressure washed ...plants around house...hang plant on front porch (weather permitting) or maybe a nice looking fake plant sitting on porch(needs to be sized proportionately to porch)....needs some life...change storm door to full glass door....last but not least..put a nice bright wreath on front door(but not to big)..make it more welcoming...good luck!!!!!! I definitely know it is a tough market out there..curb appeal is everything...gotta make them want to come in...

Fran Vallone love all the suggestions - i especially liked the yellow house with window boxes and shutters an easy fix that adds so much appeal

Danielle Daly Shutters on all windows painted choloate brown

littlemissk I don't have time to read everyone's comments (dinner time) ... I'm sure there's allot of good advice ... or what I'm about to note has already been said, but perhaps 1) painting the shingles above the garage. They are a different color from anything else on the house. 2) Add white shutters on all the windows to make the windows look larger. The brick facade overpowers the windows. 3) The front railing makes the house look like it doesn't want any visitors. Cut it down so it is even with the bottom of the glass in your front door and plant a few hydrangea bushes in front of the railing whose tops are even with the top of the shorter railing --- purple or white. 4) Make a lazy S curved planting bed from the right side of the house, go past the front of the tree and have it join to the sidewalk about halfway down (like a french curve). Mulch it up and plant some annuals that like your transitional weather, maybe white, purple if you can because that creates depth. 5) Have a professional tree trimming company come in to tidy up the tree. It's scary big and depending on your weather, could be a show-stopper for some who are worry-warts. 6) Get the cars out of the photo. 7) Make sure the interior sparkles. Fresh flowers and baked goodie smells are a plus. 8) Shame on your realtor for the crappy photo and not being pro-active with advice on how to get people to cross the threshold. Look at what else is on the market in your area and see what you can do to make yours a little special and that will draw people in. You don't have to spend a ton of money but you do need to put your thinking cap on and be a little creative.

Kathryn Peltier Design A couple of people have mentioned a curved walkway. I just wanted to suggest something: you can achieve that look without changing the walk by creating a kind of S shape planting bed that crosses over the walk. Does that make sense? Draw the S so that the walk would be the central axis of it and the curve extends on one side and then crosses over to the other side. It wouldn't be too hard to do - fill it with some nice fresh mulch and a few flowers!

Mardi Peace I'm just a person looking to buy a new home, so let me give you my thoughts from a completely other point of view.

Your house reminds me of a wonderful vintage farm house. Most of the suggestions emphasize that, and are good. But so much depends on your time, budget, and the current weather. What I would do in a short time frame is concentrate on inviting people to walk up.

Your sidewalk is the journey, make it interesting by visually widening it. I've seen bricks or stone down each side, flowers planted down each side, or just mulched flower beds in the off season... It emphasizes the line and gives it weight. (Neat mulched beds along the foundations are also very effective for grounding the house. I hate to see the house blend into the lawn, it makes me worry about foundation maintenance.) Make it a little more interesting with a wider planting bed just at the bottom of walk. This says "hello, please come into our yard and join us." Personally I like the big tree and would be inclined to put a planting bed around it, probably with evergreens and stones or sculpture for year round interest.

Ironically I like the railing on the porch that most folks are saying to remove. If handy consider making the column more substantial, its looks a little weak visually. Maybe you like brackets that echo whats used over the garage door. And then add an extra 2x6 to the top of the rail, or something that makes it seem visually stronger... Consider removing wreath from your front door.

But your door is closed off by the railing, and if that must remain for safety sake, then try to create a bright focal point at the end of the sidewalk , under or between the small windows. The window flower boxes do this, but only when the time of year is right. Think about a dramatic element that gives a hint to whats inside: country cottage, may mean a bright painted wagon wheel. Modern inside, maybe a granite landscape stone or metal sculpture. Or if there is room, treat it like a patio with a some cheerful seating, a simple wooden bench painted sunshine yellow says a lot.... Look around the garden center for inspration and see what makes a statement.

If you are handy and the weather is good, then I would put the shutters on the garage gable window to create more balance. Then pick a bold color for those shutters and your door... remember the porch is dark, so the brighter the door, the more I'll notice it. The final thing that I'd like to see is effective use of house numbers and lighting, try something that sets your house apart: like script on the railing, wrought iron chandalier, maybe big urns holding junipers with the numbers on there.

roomi Quickest fix is dig up that pathway and remove it. Put a circular brick path around the tree and approach the existing porch in on a curved path from behind the tree. The way the house looks now it looks unprivate. Like anyone could skateboard up the path and invade your space in the blink of an eye. Make the pathways wide and spacious, you have the room.

gortachoirce Loose the tree and railings at entrance and add some climbers.

Lkristine Labor, love and appealing personality..............paint , on the perfect places, (as well as inexpensive) Spring/summer will be an advantage to add color. (in the right amount for selling.) Shutters to balance the small window above the garage. And add some stone/pavers to widen the sidewalk that leads to the front door. Then, IMO, you have a fairly inexpensive curb appeal makeover.........(well, it's more work than money anyways.........)

roomi Yes, get rid of the narrow mean looking straight path. I love the tree but don't know its state of health. If it's old and has inclusions it could cost $3000 to $7000 to get it down. Big dangerous looking trees can put people off.

Kathryn Peltier Design I am not very good at this, but thought I would try to show you what I was thinking of for the front walk. With some color on the door, the shutters and some white window boxes, the brown gable looks OK, too.

Ruth Felice potted flowers around the tree and porch.the bigger problem is the windows need a window box perhaps with seasonal color ,shutters perfect but the walkway its way to small spend the money and double the width and curve it add small bushes or trees to frame it..paint the garage same as the top a frame,change the shingles above the garage.the wood on the front is to white,close up the side entry and bring the entrance to the front.it will bring the customers.,and make a great 1st impression

lindajean49 Well, kind of "plain" huge tree blocking (but I love a tree) . how about changing the walkway, curvy to the door...shutters...and the bay window room...seems added at a later date..needing some composition to attach it better to home...roofline?I know that is a big expense....shrubbery needed alot...and maybe dark red door, shutters......need to have it so one wants to go in to see more.....

Colleen Duff Some simple white shutters around the windows would perk it up for me...Good luck :)

roomi Much as I love trees this one has not grown in very attractive shape and reshaping it would take some years.

MaryAnn Schiltz add some shrubs and maybe a magnolia tree or two

Interiors Unleashed The big white garage door seems to be what draws my eye. And the front door is barely noticeable. You might consider painting the garage door the color of the dark siding above it. This would help ground the house. Removing the railing at the porch would open up the front entrance. It doesn't look high enough there to warrant a railing by code, but you should check first. Painting the wood trim around the porch roof and the column the same as the garage door and upper siding could tie it all together. Some dark plants at the base of the porch or some in pots that hang over the porch side would help hide the concrete there and tie into dark brown. Simple is often best.

7576 Clean the roof, lighten the color of the brown at the very top over garage. Take the awning top off the garage and turn into a white wooden awning . Paint front door, put pots of flowers on porch and landscape!!

7576 Take down the railing on the front porch put a bigger square post on porch in place of the small one, paint dole, add pretty flower pots, maybe a small bench to the porch.

n247080 I like your house, but I take a new photo without a vehicle in the driveway and from a different angle. Perhaps standing off to the right so that the tree isn't the focal point. & perhaps hang a simple but pretty spring wreath on the fence to dreaw the eye to some color and suggest the inside might have some suprises?

Susan Burrows Needs a wee bit more curb appeal....has no color, or life. Personal touches needed like maybe some shutters, shrubs and flower boxes to start with. A bird bath, potted plants, a bench-anything to make it look lived in.

TAP Interiors, LLC I think the largest impact (granted its alittle money) would be to EXTEND THE FRONT PORCH to the front section of the house. I would get rid of the railing in front of the doorway and have it across the porch area with columns. The doorway needs to be more inviting. Stage with colorful chairs (or cushions) with inviting plants. Plantings around the new area accenting the walk area to the front door. Of course, new pictures with a different angle.

Mardi Peace this is my miniimum, after one trip to a good garden shop. (you won't even notice the garage with something inviting to notice at the front.

MaryAnn Schiltz I live in a apartment,although I like to comment or make a suggestion.I'm mainly looking for ideas and suggestions,and to share with other people I know.

MaryAnn Schiltz I would remove the big tree.It's the first thing one notices,being an artist,it helps put things in perspective.

Kat Ki Beautiful landscaping and nice walkway can go a long way. If possible, I would get rid of that tree and plant 2 or 3 trees in place of it but to the side of the yard, not right in the middle. Trees like that can easily cause problems by the roots growing in the sewer line or pipelines. I would avoid buying a house with a tree like that. I would also extend the porch and add some shutters. This is what I would do and if I saw a house like this I would love to buy it: It's the landscaping that makes a huge difference

sacapuntaslapioz Kat KI, you got it. HUGE difference.

bndjamesgang Of all the photos submitted, Kat Ki has the best idea. It takes your home from drab, (sorry) to inviting. I agree with all about the shutters, the flower boxes are super cute but unless you use artificial flowers, I find their difficult to keep watered. They are a great place to decorate for changing seasons. The over hang across the front truly add warmth and a out doors place to sit. The walk leading up to your home could definitely could be widened. Kats photo says welcome from the car door to your front door! You have a little diamond in the rough. Keep up the great work, I'm sure you will be rewarded! Good luck!

sgausman Started yesterday by painting screen door BM Claret Rose. Here's a pic of it- in process - haven't painted front door (will do that later today). Would appreciate input on color, and how you think it looks with the brick.

Will most likely remove railing today, too.

apple_pie_order It is bright and popping. I think painting the screen door is enough, no need to paint the nice wood door unless the wood is in poor condition. I'd rather see a new coat of varnish on a wood door.

mckstacy Love the color! I think you should paint them both, otherwise it looks unfinished. Look at Kat Ki's pic & suggestions - she's good!

bevballew Loved Kat Kis pic. The orange is a bit bright on the storm compared to the wood door which is a perfect color. Great start!

astraea I just moved 5 years ago & sold my other house. What's INSIDE your house? I would imagine that the MLS can list many photos of the inside, that could attract buyers. Does your MLS system allow/require listing all the rooms & their sizes? I'm much more interested in what kind of "bones" I'm getting, than "fluff". I agree that if those are just distribution wires to your house, you should try to eliminate them from the photo .. because everyone else has them too. If they're transmissions lines & you've got an easement (not likely), that's something that would have to be in the listing or disclosure anyway.

longogene Looks great - good choice!

emrodriguez63 Get rid of the fence blocking front door. If you can, re-do walk with softer material like pavers that lead to the new entrance (once you get rid of the fence). Buyers will be able to see the front door. Paint the front door a contrasting color like black or dark blue. Add shutters to the front windows that match the color of the door. Soften yard with flowers or green plants. Get rid of cars in pictures.

4resas If you don't want to get rid of the porch railing there are railing planter boxes, so you can add some inviting color at the door.

kah416 I love the house, it's just hard to get a super pretty picture when things aren't green outside...I think with some nice landscaping it will be totally different :) Kat Ki I liked your idea best!! Whatever you do, please don't paint the brick! It's so beautiful! :-) How about a nice new set of house numbers, new porch light and mailbox in brushed silver? Pottery Barn has great choices! Details can make all the difference. :) I can't wait to see your finished project! :)

graciel57 I still like the railing by the door. Put up a big window box that hangs down instead of sitting on top of the rail---would make the rails less of a standout. I'm not sure how much room you have between the railings and the corner of the house, but a small slate area with a birdbath and a short hedge of annual flowers would be nice when the weather gets better. Also to the right of the porch/front door put in a nice bed of annuals, taller ones that make the windows look lower to the ground. An extended porch would be lovely! But too costly to do it for sale.

The orange is a kick at the front door. I would not paint the wooden door if it is in good shape but woul leave it wood toned.

I like the big tree as well. I think it's just the photo that shows the one branch looking scraggly that causes the problem.

sgausman Definitely need the shutters now.

sgausman Shadow makes it hard to see

Kathryn Peltier Design I like!

sgausman Railing is gone

Kathryn Peltier Design You know what? Even a sunny day makes your house look so much nicer - what a little sunshine can do, huh?! I also just have to comment on the number of people who have wanted you to take that tree out - REALLY? I wouldn't buy a house that didn't have nice trees. Does everyone live in the south or something and have never seen a tree in winter? They DO get leaves lol! One of the pluses of living in an older neighborhood and an older house is usually the mature trees. It's why new developments look so bleak - no mature landscaping!

I had one more thought looking at these new photos - one thing that would be nice would be some steps from your driveway to the front door. You could do them out of recycled concrete or something rustic and plant a couple of low lying shrubs (cotoneaster or something more exciting) next to them. This would connect your front door to the parking area. Just another idea :-)

Kathryn Peltier Design Looks like you'd have room against the wall for a small bench - that would be welcoming. Nice improvement!!!

bevballew Keep the tree. I don't think that is hurting the sale. House looks drab. Definitely shutters and landscaping. I would start with that and not spend a lot more money yet.

longogene Once the tree gets leaves again - it will be charming - agree keep the tree.

Jayme Hobbs I agee with keeping the tree...it adds life to the area.

roomi If the tree is not sound it will be a deterant. For instance many people may love the tree and be sad to think that some day soon it may have to go. They are actually buying into the tree and would be distressed to remove it after buying. That is one problem. We really need to know what kind of tree it is and what is its state of health. It actually looks like a half dead branch handing over the path. This is not a good thing as dropping from a height like that even a small branch can be deadly. The tree should be deadwooded ie all dead potentially dropping branches removed.

tennisanyone Add flowers everywhere and a bench between the two windows and add pillows with color of front door. It is a strong color choice now you have to make it look like it fits in with the landscaping.

bevballew Agree re the tree. I have a tree that large in my backyard. I had it pruned and do so periodically for the reasons you stated. I am always environmentally conscious and don't like trees cut unless necessary. They are good for the environment. My community is loaded with trees that large and it is known for its beauty because of the lushness of trees unlike new subdivisions with no large trees. It is an asset if cared for properly.

Jayme Hobbs In any case, the way that particular branch hangs...it need to be trimmed off...it has overgrown what it should have which may be why it is hanging like it is...I am a plant and tree lover...I don't see alot of trees, so to lose it would be a shame.

Jayme Hobbs I mean, I don't see many trees in the yard other than this one..

roomi No the garden is not well established and that tree may be the sole survivor of a previous landscaping which survived on neglect or maybe it came up from seed and was let grow without regard to its eventual height. If it could be reshaped to a lower more more umbrella kind of profile it might go better with the house and look like less of a problem and less of an ongoing expense. Looks like a cherry picker job right now.
Love to know what kind of tree it is.

sarahm15 It looks really big and spacious. I think that adding plants/greenery and flowers would make a big impact. Try not to park a car in the drive way!

Kathryn Peltier Design Sorry, it doesn't look like there is one thing wrong with that beautiful, huge, multi-limbed tree except WINTER!

kathleen MK Keep the Tree! Photo from an angle so it's not the focal point of the photo.
The brighter door and removing the railing was a good move! All the advice about plants would add welcoming color. Match flowers to the door,
I'd actually add moss--green that is. Paint the cedar shakes lighter (muted green or tan)and adding matching shutters would brighten the garage. Power washing might lighten the shakes enough.
Really just a better sunny day picture and a few plants should give you the best bang for your buck.

bevballew Better without railing! Good start. Love the door color. I think trim painted a dark brown would really pull it together. Of course shutters and some landscaping. Enjoying the transition. Garage door needs a dark brown color also.

blisscottage06 Love what you've done so far, sgausman. That color for the doors really shows up well, and if your house has not sold by planting time, there are many annuals that will pick up those tones that you can add to the landscape, as so many have mentioned. For me, the tree is an asset and I hope you are not planning to remove it.
We who comment here need to keep in mind your goal - to sell the home - and not get too hung up on all the things that could be done to improve the facade, the walk and the plantings... leave that for the next owner!
A more tightly cropped photo of the front, on a sunny day, might be all you need. As some have commented, as a buyer, I'd be more concerned with the interior layout and condition of the baths and kitchen. And getting flattering pictures of the interior on the web is most important for getting traffic from would-be buyers.

roomi Yes well I thought the same about my tree before it developed a giant split unexpectedly and with my last house which had a magnificent tree (amazing huge Sydney white gum) I thought it was far enough from the house not to affect the foundations and I was wrong too. I will repeat that I am a TREE LOVER but I do not know whether that tree is growing in six inches of soil on a rock shelf?
These people have said something is putting people off. The house looks appealing enough to me and putting on shutters etc is something which is easy to do and which has an effect. Removing trees, repairing foundations, cleaning drains invaded by roots is however money spent for which there is little reward. Does the tree provide a lot of summer shade? Is the winter leaf drop not what some people want to deal with? A photo provides only so much information.

sgausman Tree is some sort of maple. I'm not certain of the variety. It really is a nice shade tree, although the roots have lifted some of the path to the front door. I suspect, now that my husband sees the direction we're going w/ freshening up the exterior (thanks for the renderings, everyone), we may just dig up that path and replace it... lots of work if we do it ourselves, but I think it would dramatically change the curb appeal.

sms9758 It's axing how much warmer the home looked in your second photo. They really took a bad photo. What about a wonderful window box abc shutters above the garage with a few trailing flowers in it. I liked the idea of one shutter on the window near the door. Charm it up but trust me it shouldn't have to cost you a fortune. Also you can clean the roof easily. Some near us are having them pressure washed to remove moss and dirt. Good luck!

Richard Rizzo Art and Design I would agree with many of the others, landscaping is a must though it doesn't have to be costly and the removal of the front railings would be my suggestions.

roomi I cannot see which part of the path is lifted but I believe you and this would not impress buyers. Taking the same distance from the tree to the lifted path and measuring from the main trunk to the the house does that circle hit the house? If so the roots may be reaching the house. It is possible to dig a trench and put in a root barrier to stop the roots getting at the foundations. Yes it will be a bit of work to dig out that path but you have given even more reason to do it. I do all my own digging and brick landscaping. Bricks can always be jiggled in small sections to deal with tree root issues, whereas solid cement paths just crack. Digging and brick laying is a bit of a no-brainer. I cannot do electricals or plumbing or carpentry but doing the laboring I can save a bit of money. My brick events usually look like they have been there for a hundred years which is fine with me. BTW on the front of the house are those marks under the windows just from water run off or has a larger window space, say for french doors, been filled in with bricks? If it's just discoloration maybe a pressure wash of the bricks with a high pressure hose might be a good idea. If it's a fill in then a planting in front would be a good idea. Or window boxes and plantings.

roomi Also I would put another thicker matching post on the house wall side of the porch. It's not structurally necessary but would make the porch look more solid. I am wondering where else the house number could be located. Maybe slightly larger and quite low on the red door, maybe with a little solar spot light on it. Maybe out front carved on a sandstone block.

bndjamesgang I agree with roomi. I think even having both posts beefed up, would improve the appearance as well as give a bigger surface to put your address numbers on.

traceyg Many great suggestions. Kat Ki has illustrated a very successful solution!

sgausman Just heard from our realtor -- We have an open house scheduled the weekend after next, so we need to prioritize. I won't be able to paint trim. Any color suggestions for shutters if we keep white trim?

bevballew Brown or charcoal gray.what color is the color on the peak above the garage...probably that color. Put some planters on porch with a shrub in it if you can.

Kathryn Peltier Design The color of the little porch roof over the garage seems like quite a bit lighter color than the gable. I think I would go with that chocolate color. It will kind of tie everything together and it's more "safe" than adding another accent color for resale.

I like the idea of a couple of planters with some small shrubs (if you can find them yet, this time of year). If you can't find them yet, purchase some daffodils or tulips in bloom and stick those in the pots. If it's really still too cold to leave them out, stick the entire pot in the soil and then "unplant" them after the showing.

LB Interiors Love the changes you've made so far. I agree with Kat Ki, love the photo.

An added suggestion, paint the drain down spouts, the same color as the brick. They need to be hidden. I would also beef up the entry left post to match the right side porch post. I think the wood trim above the garage should be white - that area doesn't seem to go with any other color.

Altho a new sidewalk would be ideal, To keep costs down, I would widen the sidewalk on both sides with a bed of plants. You wouldn't need plants close together, just some small bushes and some colorful bedding plants here and there. Tall plants at garage sides. Shutters are nice. Kat Ki's rendition is great.

To cut cost - flowers around tree and on the right side of the house where, there is a mound of something?

mollythecollie Please post an after photo. Good luck on your open house!! I hope your realtor has uploaded newer pictures on the MLS. I like how you painted your door.

Southview Design Three small things 1. Shutter on the front window above the garage. 2. Take down the white fence so you can see the front door (make sure the door looks great). 3. A mulch or rock bed in front of the house with shrubs ( I uploaded a picture of a house with shrubs in along the side.) If you get ambitions, dig out mulch beds all the way down both sides of the walkway and put in either flowers of small short shrubs. Hosta works great if you can grow it where you are. This house will be beautiful.

judyg Katki nailed it. Landscaping and losing that tree. You want to welcome guests into your home.

Kathleen Amatangelo Get some spring flowers growing at the base of the lovely large front yard tree. Maybe a little love seat under the tree. But two things are bothering me: That big dark triangle (gable) at the top of the house above the garage, and the color of the front door. This triangle could be a lighter tone, closer to the color of the roof. I think I would consider a lovely green for the front door, since it is the compliment color of red (as in brick). The white garage door is not attractive. Garage doors should not be focal point. Remember when you look at a picture or house, you eye will always go the the lightest/brightest item first. Paint the garage doors the same as the triangle at the peak. White flower boxes, filled with color below the three smaller front windows would be inviting.

Chris Warren I think you should keep the tree as long as it's healthy and not interfering with the structure or the plumbing. It cuts cooling costs, and with a bench installed around the circumference of the base that is stylistically in line with the suggestions of shutters, some pots or plantings, and a more welcoming path, it gives a great place for caregivers to sit in the shade while the kids run and scream. Also, try a lower shooting angle, like from the knees and see if this helps.

Treasures Interior Design Inc. Landscaping all along the base of the house and I'd add shutters!

bndjamesgang Keep the tree, add shutters on the window over the garage, and flower boxes under the windows next to the front door. How'd the open house go this past weekend?

Tarey Cullen New picture will help. you appear to have something happening to the left of garage that looks like a hill side ? or ravine ? should be emphasized as a feature. The detail above garage is now lost because of cars obstructing view. Adding larger circle of mulch bed around tree and to right side will help define planting beds. And you may want to add pavers or brick to sidewalk to give wider appearance

pattiegoode Great job so far, sgausman! Clean the roof before the open house if at all possible. I'd like to see the gable blend in with the brick color, myself. I would keep the tree, even if it needs to be trimmed. Always time for that later, but you can't plant that size tree again tomorrow. ;) I really liked the bench someone suggested between the windows & you could do a potted vine on a trellis cheaper than shutters. Shutters make sense on the upper story window because it would balance with the garage better. What about a shiny new mail box and house numbers? I bought an old house with an Umbra mailbox that I loved! New numbers that make a connection to what you have done to update the inside serve as a sneak-peak!

pattiegoode Forgot to say -
Either take down the flag pole hardware or put out a simple, neutral flag. I vote for taking it down, though.

handymam pattiegood, love all your ideas except to take down the flagpole. It just isn't necessary. He can leave it where it is for the next owners. No sense in leaving holes in the wood when most likely they will put one up anyway. :)

pattiegoode lol I would never put one up & if paint is going to be touched up it would easy peazy to fill those holes first. But that's just me. I'm not a flag person and empty hardware doesn't wow me. ;)

handymam In my neighborhood, everyone puts out the flag for Memorial day, fourth of July, Veterans day, etc. Guess it all depends on where you live in the country. Lots of veterans in this part of the woods.

Kathryn Peltier Design I would never put up those "holiday" flags either, but I fly the American flag!

mollythecollie Hi, Just wondering how it is going with selling your home? Would love to see the updated pictures and hopefully your real estate agent has posted newer pictures on the MLS listing. Best wishes

sgausman Molly - still no showings. Poorly attended open house last week. Our area/town is definitely in a slump. We've reduced our price and are waiting for the weather to break so we can begin doing some freshening outside (mulch, flowers, etc.) We painted front door, added shutters (brown, to match area under roof) over window above garage. (of course, they're a bit too short, so we will redo, but I do like the look). May paint garage door that same brown color. I'm personally frustrated and a bit exhausted by the effort, because of lack of interest. Realtor says it is just our town (he's a neighbor) and not to do anything else to inside of house.... I realize outside needs something more, though.

2dogssashatess HI sgausman.The front door looks much better since you painted it. Personally I would not go overboard. I would advise you , as others have suggested to buy a nice wooden bench, perhaps paint it the same color as your door:)
and place it on the front wall of the house roughly under the two little windows.Put 2 tall matching pot plants in color pots , one either side of the bench. You can take the bench and all the pot plants with you to your new home:) I would make sure i had a tall potted shrub in a pot( same color as doo)r on the porch, to the left of the front door.Make sure you have a nice welcome mat on the porch. Do not cut the tree down if it is healthy.Maybe you could paint your pathway?

2dogssashatess ps some potted flowering plants around the base of the big tree. Ps be mindful that the bench and pot plants could be stolen and try to guard against this.

grout4cake Heard yesterday housing market coming back, but If I were you I would consider lowering the price before any costly investment.You did a great job on the outside

Archevie Design Now that spring is coming, the landscape can be improved. It's amazing how big an impact neatly edged mulched beds make. Get some early blooming annuals in to brighten it up. I wouldn't invest in shrubs unless you're planning on having it on the market for years. I wonder if extending a bed around the tree to the sidewalk would visually break that straight line up? That said, don't put such huge beds in that the plants look lonely. Group them and it's ok to have some empty parts that are just fresh mulch. I like the shutter suggestions, too.

mollythecollie SGausman I hope the real estate will start picking up in your area. Especially as spring is arriving. I know that many people wait on moving until the children are finished with the school year. Wishing you the best. Your house will look great. Best wishes.

CMR Interiors & Design Consultations Inc. I wish the roof was black.

sgausman CMR - I agree. Had I chosen the roof color, it would be black. I am also bothered by the pitch of the roof over the addition (the bay window area). To me, it would look better if the pitch matched the main roof....But, we won't change that to sell!

pattiegoode Can you post a new pic for us, with the shutters & paint? Maybe you could share what area your house is in and get some advice or interest. Is that allowed? ;)

pattiegoode Please don't paint the garage door the dark brown. That will emphasize the difference in the size of that wing and the rest of the house. It will make it heavier, when what you need to do is emphasize the opposite end of the house with the bench in the middle (painted the dark brown or white, not your accent color, which should be added in the design of a pillow & in blooming plants) and landscaping that has some height to it: sweet potato vine on a trellis? Tall grass in tall pot? one young tree with mulch around the bottom?

roomi Yes please show us what you have done?

sgausman Attached are two pics I took before leaving for work this morning- it was very foggy, so the light wasn't good...

CMR Interiors & Design Consultations Inc. An Improvement. I think you need a dark Garage now without windows.

longogene WOW I have been following your project for weeks and you have done a terrific job!- shutters and window boxes add charm. I would normally not paint the garage door dark - but agree it would look better - more up to date and not be so "in your face". You have greatly improved your curb appeal!

Jayme Hobbs When u are able...Check out trailing plants to hang out of your window boxes..they look great!

Lynn Brokaw You have certainly made some good changes! I love what you have done. I do think some burst of color under the 2 windows would help- a bench or something bright. Hopefully the market in your area would improve. Its a lovely home, just waiting for the right buyer to find it. Good luck.

Bay Area Floors http://www.dunbarproductionsvideo.com/ballantyne-doal

sgausman @Jayme- good idea regarding the plants. Window boxes currently have orange pansies in them, with room for more plants.
Bay area floors- thanks for the link.

Jayme Hobbs @sgausman...I plant strange plants in my planter boxes...Tall plants that really stand out such as bright colored zinnias...I guess u could say I over fill...but it looks great! I also stick in branches..right into the dirt and make "arrangements"...

Jayme Hobbs Last year I had some type of grass start growing...a "volunteer" in my planter box...it was a big, cool looking one...I let it grow..looked awesome! I also recommend plants with large leaves if u want to make a statement...they attract attention and add so much to a pot/box or bed!

LB Interiors Since your garage door is white and would take a lot of work to repaint, I would paint the flower boxes a lighter, brighter color in the palette of your entry door. This will create more attention to right side of the home, by carrying the contrast color to the focal section of the home. It will give more balance to the overall picture. Especially if you add colorful eyecatching plants under the windows also.

sgausman what so you think about shutters on the two windows to the right of the door? We talked about them earlier in the thread ?

bevballew Absolutely to shutters on the two windows.

pattiegoode If you want shutters on those 2 square windows, consider one single shutter to the right of each window - not two narrow short shutters on either side. It looks like there will be a problem hanging a shutter because of the entry roof, too. Personally, I vote for no shutters on square windows. I think your time & money will be better spent working on an inviting landscaping project. If your husband works with wood, have him build a bench to wrap around the tree, mulch from the tree to the corner of the house & to the sidewalk (most towns have programs that sell mulch in bulk to homeowners really cheap), and add one of the water-features-in-a-pot. People love water-features! Acacia Sectional 6-sided Tree Trunk Bench
Greico Designer Builders Dallas
http://www.shuttercontractor.com/exterior-shutters/how-to-measure-my-windows-for-shutters.aspx
http://www.diyshutters.com/board-and-batten-exterior-shutters-gallery.htm

Kathryn Peltier Design Yes, I still think the shutters for the windows on the right would look good. They should be single shutters (because of the available space and because that would be a good look) and big enough! Add some shutter dogs or (fake) hinges for added interest. They would look good with your metal window boxes, too.

roomi I'm only into shutters which shut.

LB Interiors I wouldn't do anything to the windows but instead, in the center of windows, purchase a bench and small table, some potted plants, all of which you can take with you when you sell.

sgausman This is the first decent weekend (weather-wise), and I'd like to paint that garage door. Quick question to the experts -- would you keep the trim around the garage door white? I am painting the door the same dark brown color of the shutters/peak. I am concerned the trim will pop too much, but also don't want to paint the trim around all the windows another color. Also, plan to re-measure (measure twice, cut once) the two small windows and get the wood for those shutters this morning...

pattiegoode http://www.findlocal-garagedoorservice.com/blog/new-garage-doors/what-color-should-your-garage-door-be/
http://www.jameshardie.com/homeowner/design-faq.shtml
http://www.bhg.com/advice/ask-a-pro/garage-questions/should-i-paint-the-front-door-and-garage-door-the-same-color/
If you must paint the doors, use a color from the brick, not the dark brown rood color.

LB Interiors I agree with 'pattiegoode". Don't paint the doors dark brown, I think a red color in the brick is a great accent and is visually needed. An added suggestion, paint the drain down spouts, a color that is not too contrasting seen in the brick. They need to be hidden.

I think the wood A -section above the garage should be white - that area doesn't seem to go with any other color. It would work well with the window trim and the garage door as is. It is a large space of brown and doesn't go with anything else. I don't think you should paint the garge door and should keep it white. I really like all the white trim. Don't paint window trim - I like them white. White trim for the home will not be too much of a pop.

All brown shutters is a good choice.

Maybe paint the window boxes a red color of brick also.

LB Interiors P.S. if you paint the shutters white - the windows will appear wider and be a dramatic architectural feature. It won't be too much white. Paint the doors and the flower boxes - red. That's what I would do if this home were mine.

Kathryn Peltier Design HI Sgausman: As far as the garage door goes, I agree that it would look best to paint it in more, therefore making it less of a focal point. I wouldn't paint it as dark as the shutters/gable; more of the brick color, as suggested. No, paint the trim around the door the same color as well as the downspout. I would leave those very nice brackets in white, however, to draw some attention to them. They are a nice feature.

The shutters look nice in a dark color. I don't think a board and batten shutter like you are making would look as good in white. They have that more rustic look.

horse840 I'd say to start with a simple landscaping maybe add a little design around that tree, the yard is just so plain, if you buy some products you can do the landscaping so it wont cost much

dpoole1 Your home has so much potential. My vision is to make it resemble an English Tutor. Choose a warm brown color for the trim to compliment the brick. A terra cotta color door, hedge the walkway to give it a pathway, bring a landscaped hedge area about halfway out to break the walkway area in half. Plant some running ivy. It could be doll house.

bevballew Can you paint around the windows a color to blend with the brick?

sgausman Thanks for the input. I did NOT paint the garage door brown. I actually bought the wood for the shutters and spent the rest of the day cleaning out the flowerbeds (weeding). Mulch today, and shutters. Husband spent the day painting the garage, which I thought wasn't a priority. (The garage actually looks 200% better, so I guess I was wrong!)

sgausman PS - Front door is an orange/mango (sounds awful) color - see pics above. Just painted that two weeks ago, so I don't want to repaint it.

LB Interiors Nice, I like the mango - paint mango on the window flower boxes also. Sorry, That was the red I was referring to, not a re-paint.

Renaissance Home Staging & Redesign Frankly, this house is boring. There is nothing that would appeal to today's buyers. It says, We are boring people, and this is a boring plain Jane house. You should have fixed up the outside,.. and I have a strong feeling the inside is as cold as the outside. I stage houses, and I'm always cognizant of how the pictures will show up on an MLS. Your realtor SHOULD realize this. The REA is probably just glad because he got the listing, but the REA doesn't have much interest in how to market it. Good luck. Paint godes a long way on the trim, and doors, and adding low maintenance grasses, and shrubs will help.

Robin James first thing the tree looks dead and blocks the flow of the chi around the house. I would divide up the yard into areas with bender board, and do areas of interest with plants that would break up the bleak front yard.

Robin James ok, saw a better photo with the tree not blocking the house.. The windows are small and the proportions are not attractive to the house. I suggest you add some architectural interest to them by framing them larger all the way around the top and the side and bottom, then extend the framing to the base of the house, and install some tongue and grove out door paneling between the extended frames. this way the windows appear to be bigger to balance the large bay window. You should put some nice evergreen plants under the windows, and between the 2 windows a taller spiral evergreen to bring the focus back to the house away from the garage. This shouldn't cost much. Don't put a bench on the porch. It will only bring clutter to the small area, and bring focus back to the garage, Keep the garage door with the windows. It keeps the garage from being dark. I think I would paint it to match the front door. It will be a fun look. Or I would go black

Robin James Paint all the trim black the white looks weak, so your accent colors will be orange, black and white around the windows. Have fun..

LB Interiors Some of you have suggested changes that can be expensive. The purpose is not to remodel or have huge expenses to assure sale of the home. Keep the costs to a minimum. Expensive changes are not wise when selling a home.

'sgausman' has done an excellent job with all the changes in the interior of the house that was posted on another thread. It would be wise to ask questions before making assumptions.

sgausman @ LB - thanks and you're right. We really want this to be an inexpensive spruce up, not something that costs a lot..@ Robin James -I really appreciate the suggestions, but my husband is at the end of his rope, and would not agree to the framing idea you're suggesting. Frankly, he's dragging his feet on the shutters. I didn't want to use his saw w/o his help, but I may need to just put on my big girl pants and do it myself.

Kevin Retired Decorator I would ask the realtor to use a interior picture for starters. You might get some more interest by showing a dining room or a fireplace or other special feature.It will stand out in listings too. Kathryn has hit right on with this home By removing the railing. Paint the door a accent color and make it welcoming. Most people love a front door painted red. Some people hate orange. The new shutters & window boxes look much nicer now. Fly a US flag. Paint the garage door the color of the brick. Place a bench or bird bath out on the lawn. Keep the windows lighted up inside at nite for Drive Bi's as if your having company use the outdoor lights too. Plant brite flowers in the window boxes or even faux ones in red tulips for spring. Spend some money to make money. There are lawn sprays that will tint grass green. Power wash all of the walks & concrete areas. Power washing will work wonders. Spade up your soil around the home of every planting bed. It makes the soil richer looking and darker for more contrast. And a well kept look. Use a home warranty and add that to the sign and ads.

sgausman I thought the mulch would be more noticeable. It is dark, and I think it does improve curb appeal. Hard to tell here though.

Kathryn Peltier Design The mulch looks good!

Kevin Retired Decorator @sgausman So Sorry I should have read more of the comments I enlarged the pic now to so I could see the mulch. It looks so nice, You have made some great noticeable improvements. I bet with the new pics you will be packing soon. Best wishes to you. God Bless you in your new home !

Linda Remove the car and the broom and then take another photo from the same position as this one for your MLS listing

That house is much more visually appealing than the first photo you presented. The angle is good and the sun is shining which always improves the look of a house

LB Interiors Do you have two patio chairs and small table that you could put under the windows? That would help. Place on the mulched area, could even add some square stepping stones(home depot) as a patio base for the grouping?

littlemissk You need to infuse some color from nature ... it's that simple.

bndjamesgang For the most part I agree with Linda except that you should move to the left to include your beautifully redecorated dining room. Your home looks adorable! Its come along way and your hard work will pay off. Have your realtor include your town's great amenities in the listing too! Good luck!

mollythecollie Your home looks so much more inviting. Great job!!

aniluap2 Your house, once things green up looks fine. I would just buy three large flower pots that coordinate in color with the shutters or door and fill with colorful annuals and coleus with some tall curly willow branches in the middle to add height and drama. If the price is comparable with other listings just be patient and it will sell. It is a horrible market for sellers and I feel your pain, I have been there before and it's not fun.

Rare Bird I think U need to open up the area around the front door with slabs or if too expensive use pebbles it would make the front door area bigger About 10 shrubs would soften the area between the tree and the front door u still need to soften that area

sgausman Shutters- yes/no?? Thought I liked them until I took pic. If they're a 'go' will need hardware(hinges, etc. ) so they look functional. Input please

sgausman Two more

Kathryn Peltier Design Well, I feel kind of responsible since I'm at least one of the ones who suggested them. When I enlarge the photo, they look good. From the smaller photo, and from more of a distance, they look very dark. I'm sure it's an optical illusion, too, but they look larger than the window. I hesitate to even suggest this, because I know you've gone to a lot of work here, but what about lightening the color? The dark color there also makes that part of the roof looks faded. Could you go with more of a chocolate brown, more like the roof? I know you already have the other shutters painted - sorry!

apple_pie_order Better without them. The green grass looks great and the big tree is leafing out. The flower beds look ready for some knee-high to waist high blooming flowers. Any good looking roses or azaleas in the big box stores?

LB Interiors I'm sorry, I agree, don't like the shutters. I would use the money toward adding two patio upholstered chairs and small table, between the two windows. Get some stepping stones and create an area for this seating on top of the planter. You can always find a place for them on your new patio when you move.

pattiegoode Your lawn is greening up & much prettier! Consider taking the shutters on the square windows down & using the wood to build a bench for near the tree. Then add about 4 times as much mulch under the tree bringing it over to touch the sidewalk. Paint the bench white like your trim and add potted plants that pick up the door color, either in the pot or the blooms.
http://ana-white.com/2011/03/garden-bench
http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/how-to-plans/woodworking/build-this-wooden-garden-bench

janiehburton We just sold our house in 3 weeks. I would keep the white trim and paint the house a cream or very light yellow. Buy planters to go at your front door and on your porch and/or steps. Plant container gardens with greenery coral and white flowers. Buy a new black dressy door mat. If your light fixture finish looks faded, buy a new fixture. Be sure the entrance is super clean!

sgausman Thanks for the input. We took them down. They looked great up close, but HIDEOUS from the street. And, it's all about curb appeal, isn't it? Can't put a sign on them saying -- "Walk up and you'll understand these shutters -- they look nicer close up..."

LB Interiors You could also maybe put a table and chair on the left side of door in place of what's there. Maybe a light color or white. It would create a mini outdoor reading space.

pattihenderson My first thought is that the home looks as if it is not being kept up. I would replace the garage door with something more modern and plant some flowers or colorful bushes to the right of the front door.

Kevin Retired Decorator I wouldn't have taken the shutters down. But oh well. If you could put a bench, even a picnic bench with a pot of flowers on it or anything closer to the curb that says come sit a while I think would help. In front of the tree. Also a US flag near the porch would catch the eye. Is there a sign for sale in the yard? I have never seen one in the pics. One with brochures on the post with a home warranty added sign. I have always bought all 7 of the homes I owned by seeing the house for sale myself because of the sign 1st before calling a realtor. I have always had a home warranty to selling & buying. I would also add some flowers at the sidewalk on either side of the front walk. a small triangle bed. The hanging basket is blocking the door, maybe just put it on the mulch before the concrete porch. People want to see a front door clearly from the street. Park the car on the street or in the garage. Because it makes people start thinking about parking more when you have a single driveway. Have a another realtor open house and stay there and get all their ideas. Serve lunch to entice them. If it's been 2 months ask your realtor to break your contract and re list with a new company for only 60 days. If possible. Often times things don't work out with a realtor. Tell the broker how you feel not the listing agent. Offering a buyer assistance closing money in a sales ad will get more buyers attention.

Kevin Retired Decorator You might want to try just painting out the windows on the inside to update the garage door. Note in some of the pictures that lights on in the windows makes the home more inviting. I would light all of them all the time. Also open all the curtains and shades Note the one above the garage door closed up.

bevballew You need to paint the trim around the windows dark brown and also,the garage door. Add shrubbery under the two small windows. Just plant about 8 to 10 yews straight across to make a hedge and add flowers as suggested around porch area to make it cheerful and inviting. Mulch around the tree and around shrubbery if you add some. If not shrubbery under the windows add azaleas or something like that. You need greenery under those windows. The first thing a buyer sees is the front and that is one of the most important things needed...presentation.

Rare Bird U need to put some plants in..... the house still looks exposed and plants will soften the aspect I think also the tree is to big and too near the house

LB Interiors I see some low plants in the beds. Just need some taller flowering bushes.

littlemissk The change in seasons is making your home much more appealing, but ... you need some color ... I don't know what you've planted in those window boxes but whatever is there should be fast growing, hanging, colorful and noticeable now ... what you have isn't noticeable. I'd also get two ceramic pots that are glazed (for depth and interest) and where the top of the pot ends where the bottom of your window boxes begin for under each area that isn't a window and have a little deeper coloring similar to your door. You can move them around to what seems the most attractive positions. Plant them with some mature plantings that flow over the edges and plume with some color that has red (maybe some cascading fire engine red geraniums), something that is passionately violet/purple and deep golds to spark the front and that tells those at the curb, "hey --- notice me". Your local nursery people should be able to help you if you show them a photo and take a few measurements. I'd also take whatever they recommend (other than trailing plants) and plant a combo in that bed near your front door to make the entry way pop. I don't know how much time you have to sell, but rather than wait for things to grow, I'd get the most full plantings you can get so that everything looks .. great .. now. I'd also sprinkle some of the color around the perimeter of your home to the right and also around the tree. Bright colors stimulate brain activity and respiration and cool colors promote muscle relaxation and reduces blood pressure. Reds stimulate the adrenals and is a color of vitality, yellow stimulates the brain and is a happy/optimistic and uplifting color, and purple helps balance the mind, stimulates intuition, imagination and creativity. The three colors together are a powerful combination and will have an impact on any person pulling up to your curb. Don't discount color.

billr123 It depends on budget-first foundation plants-second-windows on the front of the house need to start at the same height from the ground as the bay window. Third - patio should run full width encompassing both windows on the first floor w/o the bay area fourth - can sidewalk go to drive way instead of to the front yard and can that also have planting surrounding it ? Fifth - can that bedroom over the garage have a wider window? 6. Roof colors need to match( roof over garage)
Hope that helps but keep budget in mind as you don't want to end up with one of these issues not finished

Gene Longo Been a while since I was in this discussion. First of all I just want to say what you have done since you first posted your pictures - is amazing. If only more people put this much effort into their homes to sell. Secondly - I believe Kathryn's recommendations on the style of shutters work. I do think the first floor windows the shutters are just a little too big. I know they have the illusion of being able to shut across the window - but give the size of your home they are overpowering. I am guessing they were custom (sorry cannot read the entire stream backwards). If you could just make them one slat smaller they would be charming. Lastly - and I know I said this at the start - brown is not a great color for resale. One thing if you are going to remain in the house and you like brown. I know brown can be very "in" but it is a color many buyers do not like. I would have probably went with more of a taupe or a very monochromatic color. I know your brick has a pinkish tone and that is why your door color works well. Taupe or Sage Green would have worked well. I love pink toned brick homes with a dull sage green on the shutters.

emily996 Just a homeowner here, but I would exchange the hanging plant for two planters to put on the outside edge of the porch to "flank" the door visually rather than have the hanging basket that blocks it. I haven't been here the whole discussion, but I would also take pictures to maximize the amount of light under the porch. I don't know which way your home faces to suggest a good time of day, or whether you have a porch light (perhaps I missed that in the hundreds of comments.)

cyndipeters Your home is beautiful, and I can see some improvement since first posted. I do however think that the paint colour for the front door is off. It is to modern for your rustic looking home. They don't go together in my opinion. Sorry I know you probably didn't want to hear this. I also like the idea of the darker garage door. Chocolate brown might be too dark for your home, a colour in your brick would look great. This is a picture of my house with the black door.

sgausman Thanks for the input - here's where we are: I love the idea of extending the front porch (see KatKi's illustration about halfway up thread). However, we are trying to do this with minimal expense. We have already accepted the fact that we will lose money on this sale (new kitchen in 2010 - see my other thread for those pics). Homes in our town are not moving at all... We don't see an improvement in the foreseeable future, so have decided to continue to move forward on sale, after taking off market for about two weeks and trying to rethink the whole thing.

Keving Retired Decorator - we have always had a 'for sale' sign. It will return this week.

My husband and I made the shutters ourselves, so they can be adjusted any way we see fit. It would be a PITA to take the ones that are still up down, to paint, but it's possible. I am not "loving" the door color myself. To me, it's just too orange. That would also be a pain to paint again, but not impossible. And paint is cheap.

There are some perennials coming up under the two front windows. (The kitchen is in the front, so windows need to stay this size.) There is also a basement window well between the two windows, which is why I haven't moved on the suggestions to put a bistro set out there. I can take a pic and show later today.

Window boxes have beautiful pansies in them - an orange-ish color, which coordinates nicely with the color of the door.

I have nice big planters - similar to those below - which I have in storage. I can plant with something and put on porch. (Flowers? greens?)

Kathryn Peltier Design Flowers! If you think the door is too orange (again, so hard to see paint colors online and then not in the context of where they will be used) perhaps you could just glaze it with a bit of a taupe/brown color. That would tone it down a bit and you wouldn't have to repaint it, as such.

I think the idea of taking one board off the shutters is a good one. I do still like the style, and I understand that they are the right size - they just appear too big.

I feel like I've struck out for you!

apple_pie_order @sgausman: how many houses in your price range have sold in the last two months, since you put your house on the market?

sgausman @Kathryn - you haven't struck out! I appreciate your input and willingness to offer ideas! You have helped me see my house from a new, fresh perspective.

Kathryn Peltier Design Thanks, but I still feel kind of loser-ish ((lol, is that a word?) I tried to find the photos of your kitchen, to see if there was some kind of tie-in to be made to the exterior, but I couldn't find them!

Kathryn Peltier Design Oh, and BTW, your mulch looks good :-)

pontoonwoman I would want to see landscaping- flowers planted or at the very least in big pretty pots to create an illusion of landscaping. Shutters would attract me to want to look inside, too. The outside is not very inviting.

aniluap2 I agree with Gene longo on making the shutters less wide. Even though they are functional as is,there needs to be more space between the shutter and the next window to make them aesthetically pleasing. They do add charm to the home. I think the brown on the shutters is took dark so again the sage green would add more charm and compliment the orange door, brick and roof color. I also agree with removing the hanging basket from blocking the door maybe put that together with another,to hang from hooks on either side of the garage wall. Put your beautiful planters overfilled with flowers and foliage that compliment your house colors e. g. Dragon wing begonias with orange flowers, bright coleus leaves and bright orange flowered callibrichoa trailing down with similar flowers in your window boxes. With minimal expense the house will exude charm and then hopefully a motivated buyer! Good luck!

miahansson A lot can be done with plants to create instant appeal at low cost. The ring garden around the tree is the perfect place for a garden. The grass won't grow there anyway and being at the front of the photo this will do a lot for the visual appeal. Your local garden centre can help you choose plants that are right for the location (eg. shallow rooted under trees, etc.) and what's right for your climate and style of house. I would also put small bushes along the house to add interest. Lastly the garden path is soo boring just going straight. Let it curve a little and be flanked by low bushes or plantings.

miahansson Why not hang a swing in the tree to appeal to families with young kids?

miahansson Agree with others that the railing across the front porch says "stop" and is not inviting, as did the bushes that were previously there. I've now read the comments and see that others have proposed similar answers. I like the eagledzigns drawing with the curving path but would take out the railing as mentioned. Re-painting the house and roof and putting shutters on seems too much work and money. Put your efforts into landscaping and getting some professional photos taken.

cyndipeters If you want a inexpensive quick fix, I would change the ft door colour it is to bright. Fill your window boxes with lots of greenery will look great. I think you door would look good in a rusty shade or something closer to the roof colour. Good luck.

Kevin Retired Decorator I say a red door they have done studies that has proven that's a favorite color for a front door.

thedarlingsbecca When I sold my previous house, I made a long list of all of the improvements and replacements that we had made and the dates. I didn't make the decor neutral at all. Some buyers don't have the interest, time or money to decorate and want to buy it already done. Yes, we has put quite a lot of money into updates, but our house sold relatively quickly in a slow market!

pattiegoode KRD, do you really think a red door would look good with her brick color? I can't find a photo.

Kevin Retired Decorator http://betteroutdoorlivingathome.com/outdoorliving/2012/03/red-entry-doors/ Her are a bunch of red doors. The entire home is earth tone colors Just a red door and everything else stays the same in color on the home. Red flowers would set it off even more. Many colors would work but red is Americas favorite door color.

sgausman Window box - up close

bevballew Very very nice!

blisscottage06 Window boxes filled will cheery pansy faces - I'd buy the house!