The Importance of Curb Appeal for the Entrance to a Residential Community

Southern Landscape Lighting Systems of Alpharetta understands the power of a great landscape lighting design plan to positively impact the perception, expectations, and intrinsic and actual value of a residence, business, or professional office building. Eye-catching architecture, majestic landscaping, unique sculpture, exquisite stonework, inviting outdoor living spaces, and stunning signage forfeit their power to generate interest, create perception, shift expectations, and add value when darkness falls. Poorly lit or non-illuminated features cease to exist in the shroud of darkness.

The lighting professionals at Southern Landscape Lighting Systems of Alpharetta take pride in assisting developers, HOA’s, and individual homeowners to enhance a residential entrance's beauty, ambiance, drama, utility, safety, security, and value home or a business.

 

The Importance and Priority of Curb Appeal

Some developers of residential communities understand and fully embrace the power of curb appeal to communicate ethos and shape consumer perception about a planned community or neighborhood. Before the first lot in the gated community is sold, a well-designed and well-executed entrance is installed, complete with mature shrubs, tasteful color, elegant stonework, and stunning ironwork from a master craftsman. The surrounding neighborhoods buzz with speculation, anticipating the construction of homes that will reflect the grandeur and strength of the magnificent entrance.

In an exclusive, well-defined residential community, curb appeal begins at the entrance to the community. Within the community, curb appeal for each property is the homeowner's responsibility, who must maintain the home and property within the covenants and deed restrictions of the HOA. Adherence to the somewhat restrictive HOA guidelines can be stifling and counterproductive for the homeowner, who, like the discerning developer, understands and fully embraces the power of curb appeal to shape the perceptions and expectations of passersby, guests, and most importantly, potential buyers.

The entrance provides guests with a powerful, enduring the first impression. A well-executed design frames the access to the community in a way that captures the attention and creates the experience of entering an idyllic space of warmth, beauty, elegance, and prestige.

The entrance casts the community in the best light in the following manner:

• Sets or reinforces the visitor’s expectations before the first home is visible
• Elevates the perception of the quality and value of homes in the neighborhood
• Enhances the intrinsic value of living in the residential community
• Increases the economic value of the houses in the community

An article in Realtor Magazine entitled “How Much Does Curb Appeal Affect Home Value?” cites a recent study that analyzes the value of curb appeal. According to the article, “Homes with high curb appeal tend to sell for an average of 7% more than similar houses with an uninviting exterior, according to a joint study by the University of Alabama and the University of Texas at Arlington.” The research also highlighted the positive impact of a neighbor’s curb appeal on a home’s premium value. The findings of this study reinforce the impact and importance of the entrance to a residential community.

LED landscape lighting is the perfect choice for residential or commercial landscape lighting. LED bulbs use 80% less energy than traditional halogen bulbs and have a lifespan of over 25,000 hours. The durable fixtures and bulbs can withstand temperature extremes, severe weather, and a pounding from the landscape maintenance crew. Since the bulbs operate at substantially lower temperatures than halogen bulbs, the lenses are easier to clean and only need maintenance once a year. LED is a sustainable technology for the future.

Residential community developers, HOA presidents, members, business owners, and homeowners to schedule a lighting consultation today. At Southern Landscape Lighting Systems of Alpharetta, the lighting experts design and install customized lighting plans that spotlight the best features. The team exercises meticulous attention to detail and considers functionality and aesthetics when undertaking a LED landscape lighting project. The company is equipped with the pertinent licensing for the industry and offers the best quality products, as well as professional design, installation, and continuing service support for residential and commercial clients in the metro Atlanta area.

For more information on landscape lighting installation and service, contact Southern Landscape Lighting Systems of Alpharetta by calling (770) 691-1221 or emailing lindsey@southernlls.com.