Resolve to give your house some curb appeal. This is real estate lingo for a house that looks so good on the outside that it literally entices people to want to come inside. Since we all spend most of our time decorating and improving the inside of our homes, it is easy to forget about and overlook the exterior. Remember, that is the part of your home that most people will see, and it is the first impression that anyone who visits you will have of your home. We know It makes all the difference in the world if you're selling your house, but why not resolve to address the outside while you still live there?

Giving your home curb appeal doesn't have to mean a major overhaul. Follow a few simple steps and your home could become an outdoor haven in no time:

· Take a photo of the front of your house. Now you can see what everyone else looks at and critically assess what would improve the appearance.

· Start by evaluating the basics - does it need painting? If so, look at all the new colours that are available - charcoal, taupe, soft brown and musky green are all very trendy and unique. Pick the one that compliments your exterior cladding the best.

· How are the doors? Are they energy efficient? Do they add or take away from the appearance of your home? Sometimes simply updating your front entrance door is enough to boost the curb appeal of your home.

· What about the windows? Again, refurbishing them can add new life and sparkle to your entire home.

· What other elements can you add to improve the appearance?

Once you've fully evaluated your photo, and your exterior, take the photo to a copy shop and have them blow it up and make several copies for you to play around with. Try different paint colours, accessories like shutters or mouldings over the windows. There are great products available in aluminum and injected foam for exterior use. Try these web sites for inspiration www.canamould.com or www.fypon.com.

What about the walkway? Try some interlocking brick patterns or the new stamped concrete walks. And don't forget to draw in some shrubs and any other landscaping. Grass is not longer a necessity for front lawns - a Zen garden may take less maintenance and look much more appealing. An English country garden planted right up to the sidewalk will add charm and sophistication. Check out some landscape books from your library for more ideas.

You may also want to consider some re-claimed articles like old wrought iron - door grills, roof rails that run along the peak of the roof, low garden rails or porch railings. Awnings are another added touch that aren't often associated with residences but can completely change the look of a house. In the new styles available - from half rounds over the front door to simple tent style over the windows - they will definitely add a personalized look to your home.

See? It's easy, right? So while you are busy improving and updating the inside of your home, take a moment to stop and consider the outside as well. You'll be pleasantly surprised by how much better your whole home feels after it gets a lovely exterior make over.