Spend a Little to Make More: Inexpensive Curb Appeal Upgrades That Will Improve Your Home’s Value

Planning on selling soon? I’m sure you know that kitchens and bathrooms are a great target for your makeover dollars, but they also are the most expensive places to renovate. If you have just a little cash but want to make a major impact, step outside and check out the view from the curb.

A fresh coat of paint will go a long way. If you want your property to pop out on the block, go for a bright, eye-catching color that’s a little out of the norm.

→ 8 Unusually Beautiful Front Door Colors You’d Never Think to Try

You wouldn’t show up to an interview with overgrown hair or messy clothes, so make sure your garden is perfectly groomed for any potential buyers that stop by. Trim hedges, mow and edge the lawn and remove any weeds that sprout up.

This is something you can do now, even if you’re not selling soon, because the longer and bigger you let a tree grow, the more it will pay off for you in terms of impressing buyers. Trees provide shade (which potentially saves money on utility bills), but also offer an aesthetic benefit to your curb appeal. (Plus maybe some fruit, if you’re lucky and choose well.)

If you walk across dirt or grass to get into your home, you can impress guests by creating a paved walkway out front. It looks nice, but it also offers functionality, of course. You can use brick pavers and cover a large area, or for a cheaper project, just a few stone stepping stones.

Give your place a promotion. A sparkling new nameplate will silently speak volumes about the home to potential buyers, mirroring how well the home has been treated before. Trade out outdated, rusty house numbers for something chic and modern.

→ Modern House Numbers for Every Budget

Just like in the kitchen or bath, a new light fixture can totally transform a space. Plus, you want to make sure that the home is well-lit if any potential buyers stop by in the evenings. Switch out sconces or fixtures on the stoop or porch, then turn your eyes to the landscaping to possibly install some accent lighting on planters or walkways.

What’s the first thing somebody sees when they cruise up to your home? It might just be the mailbox. Buyers want a home that stands out on the block, so trade out a builder-grade box for something with more style.

Re-edited from a post originally published 5.24.2016 – TW