Remove Fall Hazards Outside Your Home
Property Brothers say make it easy getting in and out of your house
Jonathan Scott: We're Drew and Jonathan Scott from Property Brothers.
[Jonathan Scott, Property Brother; Drew Scott, Property Brother]
And we have also brought in our property parents, Joanne, Jim, they're the experts.
[Joanne Scott, Mom; Jim Scott, Dad]
They're going to stand in for you guys.
We want to show you a few things you can do around the house to make it your forever home.
[Property Brothers (And Their Mom and Dad) Design Your Forever Home]
[Front Exterior]
Drew Scott: Tell me something that is a frustration for you for outside your house.
Jim Scott: Well, if the parking isn't close, that's a frustration because I have a bad knee.
Drew Scott: Right, that's actually what I like here, is there's a roundabout driveway, so you don't have to worry about backing in and out.
[Make sure your driveway gives you easy access to your door.]
You just pull up nice and close to the front door, and then you pull out.
Jonathan Scott: What else?
When you see first impression of a home, what's something that's important?
Joanne Scott: Okay, I'm kind of an experience tripper.
Jonathan Scott: You don't want to have a trip hazard.
Right here at the front, one of the first things I'd do is make sure that it's a nice, level entry right into the house.
[Add a smooth incline to create an accessible entryway.]
The fewer things you can stub your toe on, the better.
Drew Scott: On top of adding that grade so it's nice and even here, having a double-wide door is great for anybody who needs wheelchair access into the home, too.
[Door should be at least 36 inches wide for easy passage.]
And for almost anybody out there, it's important to build community.
So I also love having a garden out front, just somewhere you guys can be out here,
[Plant a garden in your front yard as a social connection to neighbors.]
working your green thumb.
Joanne Scott: Definitely, yes, I love that.
Drew Scott: Thanks so much for hanging out with us.
I hope we've inspired you to make your house your forever home.
En español | Curb appeal means something different as you age. The outside of your home should look beautiful, yes, but also work for your individual needs now and in the years to come. A rounded driveway or covered garage with access to the front door lets you move freely between indoors and out without the strain of a long walk. Ramped entryways (instead of steps) reduce the risk of trips and falls. Smooth, wide sidewalks (five feet at a minimum) and level surfaces also put safety first and encourage you to pursue outdoor passions.
“Being outside, especially out front, keeps you connected to activities like gardening that connect you with others,” says Joanne Scott. “Yes,” adds her son, Drew, “with a comfortable front yard you can build community and snoop on your neighbors.”
Universal design elements might seem obvious but can have a profound impact. The shade of a tree provides sanctuary and the psychological benefits of being in nature; shade can also reduce utility bills by keeping the house cool. Solid, comfortable outdoor furniture — with seats at least 18 inches high — brings dimension to your overall living space. Low-maintenance herb or flower gardens open the home to beautiful, healthy flavors and smells, and provide activity. Says Drew, “It’s nice at any age to work on that green thumb.”
Ideas for Creating Your Forever Home
