Scope of work requires hiring a designer.

Really, wow, it's that bad? I was just thinking different landscaping along the front and maybe something with the front right windows. This place is about all I can afford, so any projects will need to be DIY or small hires.

I think the house is cute.

Trim back the Big Azalea in the Fall (best time to do that) and plant another one in front of the 2 Front Right windows. Other landscaping could be done if/when your budget allows, but I would replace the Front Door with an attractive Stained Wood (or Paint- stain look) and Glass one (maybe Mission styled), and paint trim with a good coordinating color - possibly a nice Cream color, which would add some "Pop"!

Thank you, Allison and Melba! I'm new to Houzz, I was beginning to think maybe it was just for wealthy folks! Good idea about the azalea and the door!

I suggest painting the all the trim, including the exterior window mullions the dark gray of the roof. Also, the white column things…downspouts or supports? Those need to be painted also.

There is something that I think spoils the look at your house from the curb…the curtains or whatever in the bay. During daylight, no one can see in. At night, (when you have some extra $), have panels to the floor wide enough so that you can draw them.

Thanks, BonnieLynn. I love the idea of the planters and bright flowers. I agree about the door and the trim, Judi. There are wooden shutters on the bay windows but I see what you mean about drapes inside. I think I can swing that fairly soon.

Would you think window boxes or one long window box under the two small windows to the right would help even out the look and add color?

Like this?

Have the large bush to right of front entry transplanted to far end - just that move will balance the look better as a quick solution. Gardeners/landscapers will provide some advice during a consult, which they may or may not charge for.

Then judyg's advice I agree with. Don't throw shutters out as you may be able to use them in a room at back of house. Paint the front door a welcoming colour. Google Feng Shui & Best Front door colours & look thru scads of ideas on Houzz.

Enjoy your new home. It is charming.

I like the window box idea, perhaps put it on a stand of some kind so you don't have to drill into the brick. Also I'd look at replacing the posts that are holding up the overhang by the front door - the current ones look a little small and old. The left one looks like it's off balance too. You could probably hire a carpenter to do that for a reasonable amount, as long as the roof's ok. I agree, it's a lovely house and a beautiful setting too.

Out with all the clumpy bushes. The large azalea and any other bloomers can be transplanted to the fence on the right at the proper season. Then replace them with dwarf varieties that won't cover your windows over time. You need a new pair of beefy posts for the porch and window boxes for the double window on the right. If the dormers are "faux," remove them when budget allows or when a new roof is needed. They are not in keeping with the style and aren't enhancing the facade of your home since they are not a "balancing" factor to the lines of the house. Paint your door a hot pop of color like lemon, add larger light and mail box.