If your curb lacks appeal, chances are, so do you, new research suggests.<br /><br />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. <br /><br />And 86% equate being able to take care of an outdoor space with a potential partner’s caring ability.<br /><br />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%).<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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%).<br /><br />However, half of respondents would break up with someone who gave up on a DIY project easily.<br /><br />This summer, nine in 10 also plan to set aside some time for DIY, with an average of three projects in the pipeline.<br /><br />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%).<br /><br />On average, people plan to spend nearly $1,200 on their outdoor DIY creations.<br /><br />“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.”<br /><br />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%).<br /><br />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%).<br /><br />“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.”<br /><br />WHAT GIVES A HOME CURB APPEAL?<br />● Neatly trimmed yard - 67%<br />● Trimmed hedges - 65%<br />● Clean walkways/driveways - 64%<br />● Blooming garden - 55%<br />● Lush lawn - 53%<br />● Clean siding - 52%<br />● Porch seating - 50%<br />● Clear gutters - 49%<br />● Garden lights - 48%<br />● A stone walkway - 43%<br />● A new fence - 41%<br />● A new mailbox - 31%
