curb appeal

[klassymay]

We are relocating from California to the Midwest and trying to buy a home. We have a specific neighborhood we are trying to get into. Homes were built in the 1920s through the 1940s and it is close to a major university. The house we were most interested in sold within one day while my husband was flying there to check it out. Anyway, attached is a picture of a home still available, but the lack of front door prominence is uninviting to me. My husband has driven by the home and states that it is less severe in person. I talked with a relative who is a landscape architect (btw I am fully aware of the distinction between an architect and landscape architect) to investigate ways to rectify the situation. A well thought out approach to a newly emphasized front door was discussed (courtyard, etc.) I am completely unaware of what is behind the front and center window, as my first thought would be to relocate the front door. I don't believe that is an option at this time. What are your thoughts regarding this home's architecture? Does the front addition appear to be designed by an architect? Any general comments?

[csintexas]

I think the picture was taken from the worst side and that the garage is sticking out front and always will without a major remodel. I'm not sure where you are talking about putting the pergola. It's not a real beauty but I don't think the house is ugly. A little more detail may help keep the garage from looking like a garage and better landscaping could probably be used to hide it a bit and lead the eye to the front door.

But that is just my own opinion. Has the house been on the market a long time?

[klassymay]

The house has only been on the market a week or so. Who knows if we will end up with this house anyway? About the pergola, second thought maybe not add it as it may block the view of front door. Perhaps a courtyard by the front door, fence or lamppost, and a landscape plan, as you mentioned. Is that the type of detail you are referring to?