Can your home's curb appeal affect your love life? Survey says it might

  • 11 months ago
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%