You’ve probably heard the term “keeping up with the Joneses,” but you probably didn’t know what it meant until you moved to suburbia. This is a phenomenon of the residential regions outside of major cities everywhere, where people drive similar cars, houses look alike, and yards always seem to be perfectly landscaped.
It’s easy for your house to get lost in the crowd when you live in a suburban neighborhood. Some people like that, but others want their home to stand out, especially if they’re getting ready to sell it or need to make a good impression on someone. If you’re ready to make your home a little different, here are some things you can do.
- Install an In-Ground Swimming Pool
There aren’t many New Jersey homes with swimming pools in the backyard, even in suburbia. Because of the harsh winters, many homeowners don’t want to go to the expense of installing one.
However, if you’ve lived in New Jersey long, you know that summers can be brutal. The humidity makes it feel even hotter, and having a private place to cool down is a huge asset to many homeowners. You can also install an in-ground hot tub to be used during the winter.
Contact a swimming pool contractor in New Jersey to discuss your options for installing a pool in your backyard. You might be the only house in the neighborhood with such a fantastic amenity, and your kids and their friends will make great use of it.
- Add Outdoor Shutters
Window treatments make a home look beautiful while improving energy efficiency. Gorgeous interior window treatments can make your living room a point of pride, but if you want to make a real splash in your neighborhood, go with outdoor shutters.
Outdoor shutters create a rustic, country charm for your home’s exterior, which you likely won’t see in New Jersey suburbs. It’s perfect for those who work in the city but wish they lived in the country. Shutters are trendy and versatile, so they can be painted or cut to match your preferences.
These window treatments offer a variety of benefits as well, including protection from the elements. Windows can take quite the beating during a New Jersey hail or ice storm, and outdoor shutters expand the protection.
They can also provide extra privacy while allowing you to control the amount of light that enters each room. Outdoor shutters are also known to block outside noise, which is perfect if you live near a busy street or highway. This makes your home more comfortable and can reduce your energy bills.
Look for such window treatments in Westwood, NJ or another town near you. You can even have them installed by a professional so it takes all the pressure off your shoulders.
- Paint the Exterior a Vibrant Color
Painting your house is an excellent way to stand out in the neighborhood. It can also raise your property values if done right. However, the wrong paint color can make your home an eyesore and prevent any future buyer interest.
According to CBS News, colors that can increase your property value include blue, greige (a mixture of gray and beige), taupe, and gray/purple. The article notes that blue is the most popular home color and a great way to make people notice your home.
If you’re surrounded by beige, grey, and brown houses, consider painting your home a gorgeous naval blue. The color is extremely popular among potential homebuyers and very attractive on home exteriors. It’s edgy enough to draw attention but not outlandish enough to get you shunned by the neighbors.
It doesn’t take much to become a standout home in the neighborhood. Apply a little creativity and hire the right people to do the job. You’ll make a great impression on your neighbors and visitors as a result.