In the age of technology and social media, curb appeal may not be the first thing that comes to mind for marketing your business. Your first focus is likely on graphics and a catchy slogan, however, branding your building and improving curb appeal is also an important aspect of marketing.
Depending on what type of business you have, you may benefit from making the exterior appearance more welcoming, even if you offer primarily online shopping. Whether you have a gym, a coffee shop, a clothing boutique, a restaurant, flower shop, office space, or other business, the photos of your “storefront” are important for both in-person foot traffic, but also to attract online shoppers who may want to see an attractive storefront before they place their online order
For businesses that do not have an in-person experience, meaning visitors do not come to your place of business, having a nicely appointed exterior is still beneficial to your business, especially if employees or others visit for business purposes. So no matter your type of business and the visitor traffic you do or do not get, curb appeal for your business can have a positive influence on the branding and marketing of what your business offers customers.
What exactly does great curb appeal entail? And why is it important? How do you increase or improve your curb appeal? These are the main questions that come to mind when considering your building as a marketing tool or instrument.
Each building has its own unique style and theme that should be influenced by your business’s goals and mission. How your building is presented on the outside should reflect these values. With search tools like Google that upon search show interested customers the outside of your building, many first impressions will be made long before your clients reach your door.
What is Curb Appeal?
Curbside appeal is the first impression that people create in their minds when they see your business. Curb appeal is a general term to describe the attractiveness of the exterior of your space and is often thought to foretell what is inside. Broadly speaking, this includes a street view of your building’s exterior, the parking area, sidewalks, and any landscaping nearby. Curb appeal is an innately important element in that it draws people to your building.
Why is Curb Appeal Important?
Curb appeal is a subtle way of communicating through your building’s exterior. How well you maintain your building’s exterior is important for this very reason. By setting the standard via curb appeal, you will set the tone for all who visit your property. Curb appeal acts as a physical representation of your building’s purpose and can set the tone for how others will perceive how well you conduct your business
For buildings that are focused on service-oriented purposes like hospitals, schools, or libraries, greeting those that come in will impact how they feel they will be cared for while occupying the space. For retail businesses, buildings with excellent curb appeal can draw and attract customers that are willing to shop for goods at a more successful rate than competitors with less curb appeal. Attractive exteriors can make a lasting impression on those that are curious about or who frequent your business.
What are Best Practices for Improving Curb Appeal?
Finding where to start improving curb appeal takes a little bit of effort and planning. For example, cleaning exterior windows and glass doors may seem like a small step, but in reality, it is an easy way to improve curb appeal. Exterior lights and signs should be checked to make sure they are working properly.
Additionally, planters and any landscaping should be regularly maintained. Regular pressure washing of walkways and cleaning of any exterior seating areas is highly encouraged. If you have sidewalk displays, keep these looking their best by updating them regularly, and storing them in areas that they will avoid being damaged. Depending on what exterior surfaces your building has, a fresh coat of paint or cleaning of surfaces should be part of your regular upkeep
When it comes to design, simple yet elegant designs, eye-catching colors, and well-branded signage are great places to start. These are seen as inviting without being too flashy or overwhelming. You’ll want to avoid anything that looks messy or disorganized when thinking of your exterior aesthetic
The bottom line when it comes to best practices for enhancing your business’s curb appeal? Schedule regular maintenance to include cleaning and routine checks on your exterior areas, along with ensuring your branding and company’s overall ethos matches the exterior look of your building. Small changes can make a lasting impression on clients and even attract the right staff to join your business.
Curb appeal is one of the more important aspects a brick and mortar business can focus on to keep customers walking through its doors. The professionals at Streamline Painting & More are happy to help with your curb appeal. Scheduling a free estimate is easy and our team of licensed professionals is happy to help with any questions you may have about exterior updates.
We offer exterior washing and painting services in Houston, Conroe, Woodlands, and Spring. From concrete staining to pressure washing to painting, our guarantee for your satisfaction is as big as Texas. Ask for a free consultation and we’ll work with you to develop a plan for boosting your building’s curb appeal.
