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First impressions rule

House hunters decide whether they’re in love with your home within the first few seconds of seeing it. We’re talking the minute they pull up to the driveway. That means your curb appeal needs to be on the mark. According to the Remodeling 2019 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com), a garage door replacement can help you recoup 97.5 percent of your investment when you sell. This trend has held for the last few years, so it’s a change you can be confident in making. And with the average replacement costing around $3,600, it’s a relatively small expense compared to other remodeling projects.

If you can’t afford to completely replace your garage door, there are some smaller DIY projects that make a large statement without a large price tag. A simple coat of paint that complements the color scheme of the rest of the house and some hardware for visual interest can create the impression of a new door. Check out Remodelaholic for an example and some stunning before-and-after photos.

Adding manufactured stone veneer to your home’s façade can be nearly as impactful. The Cost vs. Value Report found that sellers recovered nearly 95 percent of their investment on resale, proving yet again that first impressions really do matter.

Get cooking

When it comes to interior remodeling projects that will improve resale value, the Cost vs. Value Report indicates that focusing on the kitchen is likely best for ROI. The key here, however, is that it’s minor kitchen remodels that result in 80.5 percent recouped expenses. Major kitchen remodels, on average, return closer to 60 percent depending on how upscale the project is. This hasn’t changed much over the years, either. Similar findings were highlighted in 2015 as well.

Many factors can play into why minor projects pay off better – materials and labor typically cost less, and it leaves the door open for new homeowners to customize it to their own tastes, for example. If you’re looking for smaller updates you can make in the kitchen that won’t break the bank, consider door hardware as part of your investment.

Schlage Custom™ Door Hardware offers a variety of designs and finishes to complement any style of home. Choose a door knob or lever that stands out as an eye-catching statement piece buyers will remember or keep it more subdued with a style that blends more with the rest of the room. You can also match the finish to appliances and plumbing fixtures for a cohesive look throughout the kitchen. Perhaps best of all, the new homeowners will appreciate the attention to detail and installation of high-quality products.

Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Check out our real estate guide for more tips on how to improve your home’s resale value and ideas for making the big transition simpler.

© 2019 Hanley Wood, LLC. Complete data from the Remodeling 2019 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.

Bobby needs poster board for his science project on Thursday, Susie has basketball practice Tuesday night and you’re scheduled to get coffee with Jen in the morning. Not only will your command center help you manage who needs to be where and when, but with the right pieces, you’ll also remember to buy the science fair supplies ahead of time, turn in the sports waiver, and you’ll be able to find your keys to get to your java date. When everything has its own place, and it’s all in one place, mornings will run smoother and evenings can be dedicated to family time, not panic time.

What to include

• Dry-erase board or chalkboard: Perfect for jotting down shopping list items, messages for family members and to-do lists.
  
  
• Post-its: In case you need to leave a message that’s a little more permanent or take it with you. Also ideal for writing encouraging notes to hide in their lunchbox.
  
  
• Writing tools: Pens and pencils, Sharpies, dry-erase markers, chalk to take those all-important notes.
  
  
• Corkboard or magnet board: For pinning important messages where you’ll see them or hanging your kids’ artwork for everyone to enjoy.
  
  
• Calendar: A dry-erase or reusable monthly calendar à la Bless’er House for easy schedule updates or this DIY calendar from Babble that also adds some color.
  
  
• Clock: To stick to your tight schedule mapped out in the command center.
  
  
• Hanging folder system: Permission slips, mail, receipts and coupons stay contained. One slot per child helps them know where their things are.
  
  
• Hooks: For anything and everything – purses, backpacks, coats, dog leashes, keys – so they don’t get buried under other items, never to be seen again.
  
  
• Cubbies or baskets: Great for storing backpacks out of sight, sliding shoes out of the flow of traffic, or hiding any other items you need on hand but don’t want to stare at.
  
  
• Bench: Ideal for entryway command centers so everyone can remove shoes before they track mud through the house.
  

Where to build it

Entryway: Everything you need to get out the door is conveniently by the door.

Back-to-school organizational hacks

• If you’re like most parents of busy kids, you’re also part shuttle bus driver. Keep your car organized with over-the-seat pockets or bins. We can’t guarantee it will keep the Cheerios out of the seat crannies, but at least the kids will know where to find the snacks and travel games.
  
  
• Especially before the start of the schoolyear, and even throughout, purge clothes and craft supplies. You’ll clear out unnecessary clutter and have a better idea of what you need to buy for the first day.
  
  
• Making healthy meals can be tough when you’re busy. Good Housekeeping suggests a lunchbox cupboard and storing sandwich fixings together for easy meal prep.
  
  
• Designate or build a homework station. It’ll help keep your kids focused and all their supplies will be contained in one convenient location without taking over the dinner table.
  
  
• If you need your little one to stick to a routine but they can’t read yet, create an illustrated schedule. Pictures of a toothbrush, apple and moon can help them learn when to get ready for the day, have lunch and go to bed. Place the pictures on a clock where the numbers would be.
  
  

Find more stylish and convenient solutions from Schlage for back-to-school, and year-round, on Pinterest and Instagram.

Keep calm

Find your inner calm. Animals have that sixth sense, so if you’re anxious, they probably will be, too. Also, start early on getting your pet acclimated to its crate. If they aren’t already crate trained, visit Purina.com for tips. This could take quite a bit of time and patience, so you’ll want to put it at the top of your to-do list. Help them get used to their crate so they can relax during transport.

Know the rules

Research local or state ordinances for breeds, required vaccinations and tags, and leash laws in your new area. Also check with your homeowners’ association about what documentation you need for your dog as well as what is permissible regarding new fences and home improvement projects you plan to tackle on Spot’s behalf.

Check in with your vet

If your pet isn’t already microchipped, consider doing that now. (If they are chipped, remember to update your address.) There are so many opportunities for them to give you the slip during a move – when the front door is open while hauling furniture, if they’re confused by their new neighborhood, if they’re determined to return to their old stomping grounds. Visit your vet to have your pet chipped and more:

• Ask for tips about transporting your pet safely and comfortably, especially if you’re traveling long distances.
  
  
• Refill any medications your pet needs regularly before you leave.
  
  
• Research what rabies shots and other vaccines your pet needs according to local regulations. Your vet can help with this and make sure Fluffy is up to code before you hit the road.
  
  
• Ask for recommendations for a new vet, if necessary.
  
  
• Get a copy of your pet’s medical records for the new vet or to provide proof of vaccine, breed or other requirements in your new area.

Pack for your pet

Prepare an overnight kit for your pet, just like you would for yourself. You Move Me suggests enough food, toys, grooming tools and kitty litter – maybe even a second litter box – for the first few days in your new home. You might also include a worn T-shirt so they have your scent with them during high-stress times.

Secure them during the move

You don’t want your pet to slip out when the movers have the front door propped open or trip you as you’re carrying boxes. The simplest solutions? Assign a family member to be on dog duty to keep them entertained and out of harm’s way. Ask a friend to watch them, maybe overnight. Or secure them in a “safe room” like the bathroom. From personal experience, we recommend putting a sign on the safe room door: “Escape Kitty – Do Not Open.”

Drive or fly?

If you’re transporting your pet by car, consider a safety harness (puppy seatbelt) and seat cover to protect your upholstery. Be mindful of when you feed your pet, especially if they get carsick. Among the New York Times’ tips from the president of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association is feeding them several hours before the trip and then not again until you’re at your destination. If you’re going long distance, be sure to book pet-friendly hotels so you don’t have to leave them in the car.

If you plan to fly with your pet, check with the airline before you do anything. They will have regulations based on the type of pet, its size and even the time of year you’re traveling. For example, if your pet is traveling in cargo rather than in the cabin with you, you may only be able to fly in the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate.

Get settled

Your pet may need more time getting settled than anyone else in your family. Unpack their things first, preferably in a room just for them. Make sure they have their favorite food, toys, scratching posts and eau-de-owner T-shirt. You can slowly introduce them to the rest of the house from there until they get used to their new surroundings. It may take them a week or more before they feel settled, according to Indianapolis veterinarian Greg Magnusson, so be patient. A few extra treats probably wouldn’t hurt either.

Magnusson also says it’s especially important to maintain puppy’s routine. Avoid changing its food and if you typically went for walks three times a day, stick with it. Also, take time to introduce your dog to the new neighborhood and all the new sounds, smells and people they’re going to encounter from now on.

Pet-proof your new digs

To do #1: pet-proof the new home. The ASPCA says to tuck away all electrical cords, close off small spaces to keep your pet from getting stuck, secure window screens and remove pest-control traps with poison. Outdoors, you’ll want to remove poisonous plants and secure the yard. If you have a fence, inspect it for loose boards or gaps, and double-check that it’s tall enough that Fido can’t make a leaping escape.

And here’s a security tip for you and your furry friend. It’s vital that you replace the locks on your new home as soon as possible. You never know who might have a spare key from before you took ownership. When you’re updating your deadbolts, consider a smart lock. Not only do they provide superior security, but they also add convenience. Each Schlage smart lock stores multiple unique access codes for trusted friends, family and even dogwalkers or pet sitters. You can schedule codes to be active at certain times of the day, so if your dogwalker comes Thursdays at noon, you can set up the code to work only when they’re expected. You can also use the activity log in compatible apps on your smartphone to see when a code was used, so you know if your pet sitter arrived on time.

Finish with friendly details

Finally, find all those resources your pet will need and love – the park, a new doggy daycare/boarding service, groomers – and introduce your four-legged family members to the neighbors. Maybe schedule a puppy playdate. It’s the perfect way to get to know your new neighbors and it will be helpful to have some helping hands in the future if you need someone to cat sit or search for a lost dog.

We know not all pets are felines and canines. Visit You Move Me for tips on moving birds, fish and guinea pigs. My Moving Reviews has advice for reptiles and amphibians.

Visit Schlage.com for more tips and resources for moving. If you’re ready to replace your deadbolts but don’t know which smart lock is right for you, try our Get Help Deciding Tool.

Three out of five people say that home security is the number one reason they’re exploring the latest and greatest in smart home automation. Summer is prime time to start investing in your own setup. When you go on vacation, intruders are working overtime to take advantage of empty homes, with burglaries and home invasions 10% higher during summer than in other times of the year.

That’s why manufacturers are developing a variety of technologies specifically designed to improve security. At the same time, they’re working together to create compatible products that deliver both convenience and savings. Here are some smart home ideas to get you started:

Secure more than a good deal

Taking advantage of tech starter bundles like a smart lock with a camera gives you the best of the tech that’s available. Get wireless access, remote monitoring and device control plus the ultimate in convenience and savings.

Install smart lighting

Nearly two-thirds of homeowners consider lighting when they’re thinking about smart home technology. Smart bulbs that can be remotely controlled and networked on timers and dimmers are convenient and energy efficient. Major manufacturers like Samsung and Phillips are lighting the way in home automation.

Install a smart thermostat

Look to companies like Ecobee, Nest, Honeywell and Bosch to put the “control” in climate control. Whether you’re automating your heating and AC, setting up individual climate zones within your home or looking to control and monitor your home temperature while you’re away, this is the ideal option for comfort and energy savings.

Install smart locks

We’ve already explored the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt, but Schlage offers a wide selection of smart locks to meet a variety of needs. Go keyless with secure customizable keycodes. Monitor and manage who’s coming and going. And enjoy the safety, simplicity and style that Schlage offers.

Install smart doorbells and cameras

Who’s at the door? Are the kids home from school? Are you expecting a delivery? No matter where you are, video doorbells and remotely monitored security cameras can help you stay in the loop with what’s happening inside and outside of your home. Products from Ring, Nest and Amazon are revolutionizing home access. And peace of mind.

Install smart security

It’s important to remember that home security starts at the front door with a smart lock. Combining it with a monitored home security system can take protection to the next level. You can go with complete legacy systems like ADT or try network kits from companies like SimpliSafe or Abode. It all comes down to cost, convenience and compatibility. Learn more about which security systems are compatible with Schlage smart locks with our Get Help Deciding Tool.

Install whole-home-automation

About half of those with smart homes also use their network to control smart TVs, speaker systems and other smart products such as appliances and window shades. Products from Wink, Samsung, Google and Apple provide a number of networking options with a variety of smart home device offerings.

The popularity of smart tech is only expected to grow as innovation fuels more and even better products. When you consider the convenience, safety, security - and fun - connected technologies can bring you, it’s easy to see why you’d want to build a smart home system. With so many compatible products specifically designed to help you take advantage of prime time summer savings, now is the perfect opportunity to start investing in your smart home.

1. Set the scene

When was the last time someone took a back-to-school picture with their child sitting on the couch? You just don’t do it. It’s almost always in the front yard or on the porch. Once you have Junior looking sharp for his first day, get your doorway in order, too. If nothing else, you can use this time as an excuse to make the upgrades you’ve been wanting for months.

• You can never go wrong with comfortable seating on your patio. Kids will love a porch swing, and there will be room for everyone in the photo if you have a larger brood.
   

• Update accessories – door hardware, the mailbox, house numbers and light fixtures – for a quick and economical update. A fresh coat of paint for your door can do wonders as well. They’re small details, but they have major impact when you need to spruce up your entryway.
  
  
• Install a trellis for climbing foliage or create a plant wall. Done on a porch, this can create shade and privacy from your neighbors. For back to school, it can make a colorfully lush backdrop for your photoshoot. Bonus points if you color coordinate your flowers with your kids’ first-day wardrobe.
  
   

2. Get the sign

A simple chalkboard is a classic. You can reuse it at the beginning of summer and each year, and it’s easy to jot down what your Mini Me wants to be when she grows up and what her favorite subject is. Or shake things up and try one of these DIY back-to-school photo ideas.

• HGTV >> DIY Back-to-School Crayon Photo Frame
• Where the Smiles have Been >> Yearly Handprint T-Shirt
• Neat House. Sweet Home. >> Chalk Photo Frame

3. Take the photo

With cameras on every smartphone these days, snapping a picture has never been easier. If you want a more professional look, try these tips for taking great back-to-school photos.

• Today.com >> Stage the photo the weekend before the first day of school when your kids are more relaxed … and happier looking.
• The Dating Divas >> Give your child a prop that shows their personality and gives them something to do with their hands.
• One Crazy House >> Loosen up with these funny back-to-school photo ideas for the whole family.

4. Savor the moment

Don’t be that person who takes a thousand pictures and then leaves them on their phone, never to be seen again. Take the time to print and frame your favorites. Up your creative quotient with these back-to-school photo frames.

• HGTV >> Ruler Frame
• I Heart Crafty Things >> School Bus Frame
• Picture This Organized >> Picture in a Picture

Happy Back to School season from Schlage! Share your back-to-school photos with us on Instagram and use #Schlage #BackToSchool.

Your “hello” matters

Welcoming your guests properly starts before they even set foot on your property. When you’re in communication with them before their visit, don’t rely on automated emails. A personalized touch, not to mention replying to questions quickly, makes a statement about how much you respect their business and how you’ll handle problems that may come up.

Hostfully also recommends getting to know your guests before their arrival. Find out why they’re staying with you – a girls’ wine tour, a family reunion, an anniversary getaway – and what they’re interested in. Then give a local gift or a welcome basket based on that insight. Maybe treat them to a local bottle of vino or a bouquet of roses to set the romantic mood. Even if you don’t provide a customized gift, still consider fresh flowers or a thoughtful gift from the region to make them feel like family.

At Schlage, we love a beautiful entryway you can’t take your eyes off, but Hostfully makes a good point about not having conversations in the doorway. If you’re on site when your guests arrive, let them into the house and give them a chance to set down their bags. Offer them some water and let them catch their breath. Only then do you want to begin your welcome speech with all the essential information about staying with you.

As part of the full welcome package, include an information book, either emailed ahead of time or provided on the property. Anticipate their needs with instructions on how to adjust the thermostat and connect to the WiFi, and offer expert suggestions on the best dining and local tourist highlights. If you’ve installed a Schlage smart lock, include our tip sheets in case they have questions about how to use it.

You should also include policies about how to treat the property (it helps protect your investment) and a list of emergency contact information. Include your own phone number and email as well as details for local police, fire departments and hospitals.

A welcoming – and secure – statement

If you can’t be there when your guests arrive, either because you have other commitments or the vacation home is in another state, you can still welcome customers so they don’t feel like an afterthought. One way is by installing a smart lock. With all the advantages of keyless convenience, these locks remove many of the hassles of checking in and allow visitors to come and go as they please. That simplicity is the welcoming statement that separates you from the competition.

Access codes are the … *ahem* key … to providing ease and convenience to your guests. When you send visitors their unique code before they arrive, they’ll have access to the home without your needing to arrange a key exchange. Providing the code in advance doesn’t mean they’ll have immediate access – unless you want them to. If check-in time isn’t until noon because of cleaning, for instance, you can schedule those codes to be activated only when you know the house will be ready.

Not being tied to the property to provide a key at a specific time can actually boost your business, particularly with certain kinds of guests. VRBO names flexible check-in times as one way to attract weekenders. They’re only staying for a short time, so don’t delay their fun by making them wait on the porch.

Because you can create multiple access codes, you can save some specifically for guests, have a different code for your house cleaner and another one entirely for trusted maintenance teams. You can also view a history log through the Schlage Home app to see when codes have been used, so you can be confident that your handyman arrived to fix the toilet or that guests checked out as expected.

When guests are done staying with you, you don’t want them to have access to the rental property anymore. You can schedule access codes to expire at the end of their visit so they can’t return unannounced. And because you never provided a key, you know they didn’t make a copy before they left.

Try our Get Help Deciding Tool to find out which Schlage smart lock is right for your vacation home. Check out the features of the Schlage Home app as well – compatible with the Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt and Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt – and see how creating and managing access codes, checking your locks’ status and more from your smartphone can make your job easier and your property more secure.

Looking for more ways to boost your vacation rental business with a welcoming statement? Check out this Schlage blog for simple ways to improve your property’s curb appeal.

Style and function

Schlage offers distinctive door levers in a variety of finishes, styles and trims. With such a wide selection, it’s easy to find the perfect match for both function and style. There are electronic keypads and smart locks, as well as privacy (Bed and Bath) locks and passage (Hall and Closet) locks. All of this makes Schlage levers as versatile as they are stylish.

Speaking of versatile, levers are also easy to open for children, people who find gripping door knobs difficult and those who literally have their hands full. Carrying grocery bags or a laundry basket? Levers are “elbow friendly” for instances like these. And Schlage levers can be easily installed in minutes using only a screwdriver.

Open possibilities

From classic looks that never go out of style to bold contemporary designs, Schlage’s levers and door handles fit and accentuate virtually any décor. With a wide range of interior and exterior door levers, trims and finishes, it’s easy to find just what you’re looking for.

1. Schlage Custom Northbrook lever with Upland trim in Bright Chrome. A fresh, inventive take on a legendary, distinctively simple style.
   
   
2. Schlage Custom Whitney lever with Camelot trim in Aged Bronze. A contemporary take on the classic look and feel of wrought iron paired with Schlage’s flagship trim.
   
   
3. Birmingham lever in Aged Bronze. Delicate, ornate flourishes for a classic and beautiful Victorian-inspired look.
   
   
4. Sacramento lever in Satin Nickel. Versatile styling and flowing lines complement any decor.
   
   
5. Schlage Custom Broadway lever with Century trim in Bright Chrome. A tastefully edgy aesthetic with a decidedly Mid-Century Modern flair.
   
   
6. Schlage Custom Eller lever with Collins trim in Matte Black. Scandinavian inspiration, precision and simplicity combine for a minimalist masterpiece.
   
   
7. Schlage Custom Northbrook with Upland trim in Satin Nickel. Imaginative and refined with Bauhaus inspiration and simple elegance.

Which hand is which?

Levers for handlesets and non-turning locks need to be chosen based upon which direction your door opens. Does it open to the left or to the right? Schlage’s lever model numbers are conveniently marked on the product packaging as left handed (LH) or right handed (RH), accordingly, to help you choose the lever that’s right for your door. For straight levers, like the Schlage Latitude lever, handing does not apply.

More handy tips

With so many lever designs to choose from, a little preparation prior to purchase goes a long way. When heading to the hardware store, it may be helpful to bring your old door hardware for reference. Also bring pictures of the door and doorway you’re working on as well as your room setting. If you’re not sure what style you want, snap some photos of what’s available in the store and use them as reference at home. And, again, depending upon the specific application, don’t forget to make sure the lever you choose is handed correctly.

More than modern

It’s true: matte black has been a cornerstone of the latest contemporary and industrial modern design trends for years. Its versatility brings its own brand of “wow” to a host of today’s most popular designs as well, from trending styles like Farmhouse and Art Deco to more traditional Craftsman and Victorian decor. Matte black crosses style boundaries by effortlessly merging the modern with the classic, the soft with the shocking and even the feminine with the masculine. The possibilities are endless.

Open possibilities

Schlage’s Matte Black hardware is stylish and versatile. It allows you to make truly distinctive updates throughout your home – from electronic locks on your front entryway to coordinated interior levers and knobs – all without breaking the bank. Think beyond mere function and look to Schlage’s line of Matte Black hardware to quickly and easily create your own singular style statement throughout your home.

1. Latitude lever with Century trim. Minimalism meets Mid-Century Modern in this striking pairing.
   
   
2. Schlage Custom Whitney lever with Camelot trim. A modern take on old-world inspired tradition and elegance.
   
   
3. Schlage Custom Greenwich handleset with 3/4 trim. High style meets subdued chic that’s all Mid-Century Modern.
   
   
4. Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt with Century trim. Home automation goes simple and chic.
   
   
5. Schlage Custom Dempsey lever with Rosewood trim. Takes you back to the glitz, glory and style of old Hollywood with a whole new twist.
   
   
6. Schlage Custom Bowery knob with Collins trim. Smooth contemporary look and feel with a minimalist touch.

The big finish

Looking for the best way to add matte black to your color palette? Start with something simple like your door hardware. It’s a small investment in time and money that can pay big dividends by adding instant polish and elegance to your home. See for yourself with the safety, simplicity and style of Schlage.
 

1. Patriotic porch

Show your patriotic pride by sprucing up your curb appeal with the stars and stripes. You can’t go wrong with American flags, either flying from your porch or tucked into wreaths and flower pots, like we see at On Sutton Place. Add red, white and blue cushions to porch furniture for a more subtle patriotic flair. Or try Fourth-themed lanterns, which you can make yourself with this tutorial from Frugally Blonde.

2. BBQ bash

Get ready to host the perfect Independence Day bash. The Budget Decorator is full of cheap and easy DIY decorating tips, including a patriotic paper chain you can make with the kids. There are also a few ideas to upcycle containers to use at your BBQ.

And speaking of food, try your hand at some tasty treats from Four Generations One Roof. We especially like the ombre cake and kid-friendly drinks. Looking for July Fourth recipes a bit more on the healthy side? How about My Domaine’s chargrilled corn with chili lime butter and lobster pasta salad? We think these will have your guests’ taste buds exploding in the best way.

If you don’t know where to start or are looking for inspiration on the kind of party you want to host, check out our blog on finding your backyard party personality.

3. Guest-ready garden

Whether you’re having friends and family over for that BBQ or you’re heading out of town, make sure your garden is in shape. Have it looking sharp for party guests with some red, white and blue flowers. Now’s also a great time for some yard maintenance that also improves security. Trim bushes that can serve as hiding places for intruders and make sure your pool, garden shed and other backyard features are safe for guests, young and old.

If you’re taking a long holiday weekend, try some of these tips from The Spruce for watering your plants while you’re on vacation. There are options for every gardener’s taste, from DIY self-watering jugs to high-tech sprinkler timers to asking a neighbor to keep an eye on your greens.

4. Secure home for the holiday

With all the holiday excitement, it can be easy to forget important home security practices. If you’re hitting the road for that weekend getaway, you might appreciate having the convenience and peace of mind that comes with a Schlage smart lock. The Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt and Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt can each be controlled remotely from anywhere via compatible apps on your smartphone when connected to your home’s wireless network. You can then check the status of your lock from the road – no more wondering if you locked up before you left home – as well as manage access codes for house sitters while you’re away.

If you have guests coming to stay with you, you can also grant unique access codes to your visitors so they can easily come and go as they please, then set the codes to expire at the end of their visit. You should be enjoying the fireworks, not tracking down spare keys.

Use our Get Help Deciding Tool to find out which lock is right for you and check out more features available through the Schlage Home app.

Above all else, enjoy this Independence Day with friends and family. We’d love to see how you celebrate, so be sure to share your holiday décor and festivities with us on Instagram or Twitter.

What’s the big deal about curb appeal?

Amenities like a well-stocked kitchen and soft sheets are important for a vacation rental. But just like your own home, the front entryway makes a powerful first impression, and you want your guests to feel good immediately about staying with you. Renters make a snap judgement about what they’re their visit will be like, often based on the appearance of the house the moment they see it.

Curb appeal also comes through in photos. A well-maintained yard and attractive door in your booking photos can help sell prospective renters on your property over someone else’s. It says that you take care of the house and that details don’t go overlooked. To many, those are signs that they’ll enjoy their stay, and that means more bookings and more money in your pocket.

Check out VRBO’s tips for taking better photos of your rental property. And don’t forget to update your photos around holiday time. When people are looking for the perfect Christmas getaway, a house decorated for the season can be a tipping point as well.

Update the front door

There are plenty of simple and cost-effective ways to update your property’s exterior. In addition to a fresh coat of paint on the door and shutters, remember the small details that make a big style statement as well as make life easier for your guests. Real Property Management has tips for a variety of budgets. Here are some of our favorites.

Unique house numbers can spruce up your look in addition to making it easier for people to find the place. Remember that your guests have likely never been to the area, so anything that helps them arrive smoothly and stress-free earns you major hosting points.

Your door hardware also pulls double duty when you match the style to the rest of the house and make it more secure. Schlage offers a variety of styles and finishes to match virtually any taste. Ranging from traditional to modern and everywhere in between, you’ll be able to find the handlesets that complement your style.

With a smart lock like the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, you also get superior security and keyless convenience that makes managing your rental property even easier. Check out our take on why smart locks are a must-have for rental properties and tip sheets to help your guests use Schlage smart locks easily.

Beautify the front yard

When you step back from the front door – make sure your porch railing is solid and steps aren’t cracked, by the way – you want the front yard to get noticed for the right reasons. If you’re looking for big impact, think about updating the landscaping to make a big impact. This can be tricky for rental properties. You want it to look fantastic, but especially if this isn’t your primary job or if you don’t live nearby, you don’t want to invest a lot of time and money in upkeep. For an award-winning lawn without the hassle, experts recommend avoiding tropical and non-native plant species that require extensive watering and replacing a natural grass lawn with artificial turf or other low-maintenance ground cover.

For a floral punch of color, tripping.com provides a list of easy options for any region in the U.S. Rubber mulch also might be an option since it not only comes in a variety of colors, but also can control weeds and maintain moisture around your plants.

Aside from the natural elements, invest in quality pavers and walkways. Existing paths should be free of cracks for a polished look and for safety. Pavers now come in a range of styles or you can design your own unique pattern that is both welcoming and functional.

Remember the lights. Whether on the porch or along the walkways, make it easy for guests arriving at night to make their way to the front door without stumbling. Solar-powered lights are great options. You can also choose lighting that pairs with your smart system so you can turn it on and off in preparation for your guests’ arrival or to deter intruders if the home is vacant.

Transform the backyard

Depending on your location and what type of renters you get, you might want to pay special attention to the backyard. Many prospective renters are looking for a place for group gatherings – family reunions, weddings, girls’ getaways – and having plenty of outdoor space with comfortable seating and a splinter-free deck is a huge draw. Make sure the deck is safe for bare feet and has secure railings. It should also look great – paint, stain and seal it regularly – not to mention be clean.

Patio furniture should also be spotless, obviously. Consider providing cleaning supplies to wipe down outdoor furniture, a suggestion that often shows up in renters’ reviews. Installing a shed or some large bins to easily store furniture and cushions will also make your life easier if you have an off-season.

Vacations are fun, so you can afford to be a little creative when designing your curb appeal for a rental property. You might even be able to cash in on your location, like HomeAway recommends with nautical décor for a beach rental. Just remember that it should still appeal to a wide variety of tastes so that you don’t turn off prospective guests with zany style. You might compare it to staging your house when putting it on the market for sale. Neutral, clutter free and clean bring in the most money in the end.

Find more curb appeal tips for any home at the Schlage blog and visit our Pinterest page for inspiration.