If your curb lacks appeal, chances are, so do you, new research suggests.
A recent survey of 2,000 people who are dating and own/rent a home with an outdoor space revealed seven in 10 (73%) said the exterior of a person’s home influences their level of attraction to them.
And 86% equate being able to take care of an outdoor space with a potential partner’s caring ability.
What gives homes curb appeal? A neatly trimmed yard (67%) can do the trick, as well as trimmed hedges (65%) and clean walkways/driveways (64%).
Nearly nine in 10 (87%) would even attempt a DIY project together on the first date, and 64% believe the success of such a project can indicate whether the relationship lasts.
Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of STIHL Inc., results also found being handy with a power tool (49%) and the ability to fix things around the house (48%) are far greater attractions than owning an expensive car (21%).
However, half of respondents would break up with someone who gave up on a DIY project easily.
This summer, nine in 10 also plan to set aside some time for DIY, with an average of three projects in the pipeline.
Some will tackle first-time outdoor projects, including laying out a walkway or path (23%), building a planter box (23%) or constructing a fire pit (22%).
On average, people plan to spend nearly $1,200 on their outdoor DIY creations.
“My top tip to start boosting your curb appeal is to maintain a clean-cut lawn, free of debris,” said licensed landscape contractor and STIHL spokesperson Sara Bendrick. “Clearing the overgrowth and leaves from your yard and flower beds with lightweight battery-powered tools instantly adds a manicured look to your yard.”
Outdoor DIY activities can be a great way to bond. The top ones to do with a romantic partner? Planting a garden (68%) or creating an outdoor seating area (52%).
Those looking to step up their dating game this summer may also want to pick up a power tool — according to the poll, knowing how to use one is an attractive quality, particularly a power drill (63%) or lawn mower (53%).
“Summer is the perfect season to start a project together outside,” added Bendrick. “Whether you’re landscaping or refreshing your outdoor living space, try battery-powered tools that are in many cases just as powerful as gas with less noise, no emissions and easy to use for any skill level — with no mixing of gas and oil and no starter cords to pull.”
WHAT GIVES A HOME CURB APPEAL?
- Neatly trimmed yard – 67%
- Trimmed hedges – 65%
- Clean walkways/driveways – 64%
- Blooming garden – 55%
- Lush lawn – 53%
- Clean siding – 52%
- Porch seating – 50%
- Clear gutters – 49%
- Garden lights – 48%
- A stone walkway – 43%
- A new fence – 41%
- A new mailbox – 31%
OUTDOOR DIY ACTIVITIES PEOPLE WOULD DO WITH A ROMANTIC PARTNER
- Planting a garden – 68%
- Creating an outdoor seating area – 52%
- Landscaping – 49%
- Making over a front porch – 44%
- Building a fire pit – 43%
- Painting house/deck – 43%
- Trimming trees – 42%
- Laying out a walkway/path – 39%
- Building a planter box – 38%
- Pressure washing house/deck – 38%
- Building a treehouse – 37%
- Building an outdoor kitchen – 33%