Cannot see the detail from your photo that was taken too far away from the brick. Is the mortar oozing out from between the bricks?

Weeping Mortar

Here is a close up.

Does this help? We bought the house 11 years ago. I'm assuming the German Smear was done when the house was new so it's been about 18 years since it was performed.

I agree. Remove the shutters completely.
It’s a gorgeous home! 🤍🤍

I would leave the brick alone. Take off the shutters, and add some interesting landscaping (different size plantings, color, texture).

The brick is pretty; what I don’t understand are the arches. They don’t really add anything to the overall design. But that’s a nit-picky comment, it’s a lovely house. I would bring some color and interest to the front door with a doormat and new front door color.