curb appeal: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘curb appeal’ mean?
The idiom "curb appeal" refers to how attractive or enticing something appears at first glance, especially a building or property when viewed from the street.
Idiom Explorer
Street appeal refers to the attractiveness or desirability of a property when viewed from the street. It is a term commonly used in real estate to describe how appealing a property appears to potential buyers or passersby.
The idiom "good looker" refers to a person who is physically attractive or visually pleasing.
The idiom "easy on the eye" means visually attractive or pleasing to look at.
The idiom "cut a figure" means to create an impressive or striking appearance, often in a social or public setting.
The idiom "cut a dash" means to make a stylish or impressive appearance, often by dressing well or acting confidently. It implies attracting attention and creating a positive impression on others.
The idiom "curtain-raiser" refers to an event or performance that serves as an introduction or prelude to a larger main event. It creates anticipation and sets the stage for what is to come.
A "curb crawler" refers to someone who slowly drives by in a car, typically in a residential area, seeking out prostitutes or engaging in voyeuristic behavior.
The idiom "catch the eye" means to attract attention or be visually striking.
The idiom "catch someone's eye" means to attract someone's attention or to be noticeable or interesting enough for someone to notice.
An idiom meaning a woman with an attractive body but an unattractive face.
Unleashing its True Potential
Curb appeal is an idiom that originated in the United States. It is commonly used in real estate to describe the attractiveness of a property from the street view. A property with high street appeal is visually appealing and inviting, catching the eye of potential buyers or visitors. The phrase "curb appeal" is formed by combining the noun "curb," which refers to the edge or boundary of a sidewalk or pavement, and the noun "appeal," which denotes the power to attract or please someone. The term "curb appeal" does not have a clear etymology, but it gained popularity in the 20th century.
Curb appeal is often associated with various elements that contribute to the visual appeal of a property's exterior. These elements can include well-maintained landscaping, an attractive front yard, a well-painted or maintained facade, aesthetically pleasing architectural features, and visually appealing exterior colors or materials. The overall cleanliness, neatness, and organization of the property also play an important role in making it easy on the eye.
One primary reason why curb appeal is emphasized in real estate is the significant influence it can have on potential buyers' or visitors' perceptions of a property. Seeing a property with good looker can form positive first impressions within seconds, greatly impacting their overall opinion and interest. Therefore, enhancing curb appeal is often recommended as a strategy to increase the market value and desirability of a property.
The concept of curb appeal doesn't just apply to residential properties. Businesses and commercial establishments also benefit from it. A well-designed and visually appealing storefront or entrance can attract customers, catching their eye and contributing to the success of a business. Similarly, public spaces and parks can benefit from improved curb appeal, as it can make them more inviting and visually appealing to visitors and residents.
Curb appeal is an idiom that describes the visual attractiveness of a property from the street view, aiming to catch the eye of potential buyers or visitors. By enhancing curb appeal through various elements such as landscaping, facade maintenance, and cleanliness, property owners can increase the overall desirability and market value of their properties. The concept of curb appeal extends beyond residential properties and can be applied to businesses and public spaces as well. Understanding the significance of curb appeal is essential for those involved in real estate and property management, as it can greatly influence people's perceptions and decisions.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "curb appeal" can be used in a sentence:
- The house had such great curb appeal that it sold within a week of being put on the market.
- The new landscaping and fresh coat of paint gave the storefront a much-needed boost in curb appeal.
- When looking for a new home, one of the main factors we consider is the curb appeal of the neighborhood.