First impressions matter—especially when it comes to selling a home. The exterior of your property is the first thing potential buyers see, whether they’re scrolling through listings online or pulling up for a showing. A polished, well-maintained exterior can create an inviting first impression that sets the tone for the rest of the viewing. On the flip side, an outdated or neglected exterior can drive buyers away before they even step inside.
Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make impactful changes. Here are three smart exterior updates you should consider making before putting your home on the market:
1. Refresh the Landscaping
Landscaping is often one of the easiest and most affordable ways to instantly boost curb appeal. A neat, attractive yard shows buyers that the property is well cared for and move-in ready.
Key landscaping updates to consider:
- Lawn care: Start with the basics—mow the lawn, edge the walkways, and remove weeds. If the grass is patchy or brown, consider reseeding or adding fresh sod to give it a lush appearance.
- Mulch and borders: A fresh layer of mulch in flower beds can do wonders to define garden areas and create a polished look. Consider clean edging to separate flower beds from the lawn.
- Planting and color: Add seasonal flowers or low-maintenance shrubs for a pop of color. Stick to native or drought-resistant plants that appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
- Tree and bush trimming: Overgrown trees and shrubs can block windows, paths, or even views of the home. Trimming them back helps open up the space and highlights architectural features.
If budget allows, you might also consider adding outdoor lighting. Solar-powered path lights or accent lighting around trees and walkways enhance both safety and ambiance.
2. Upgrade or Repair the Front Entry
The front door is a natural focal point and sets the tone for the rest of the home. A tired, worn entry can be a major turnoff. On the other hand, a bold, updated front door can make the entire exterior feel more modern and welcoming.
Here’s how to give your front entry a facelift:
- Paint the front door: A fresh coat of paint in a contrasting but tasteful color can breathe new life into your entryway. Classic choices like navy blue, deep red, or black are popular for their broad appeal.
- Replace hardware: If your door handle, lockset, or house numbers are dated or tarnished, swapping them out for modern finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or bronze can create a high-end look for relatively low cost.
- Add a welcoming touch: A new doormat, a couple of potted plants, or a seasonal wreath can make the front entrance feel warm and inviting.
- Lighting: If your porch light is outdated or dim, upgrade to a contemporary fixture that complements the home’s style and provides sufficient illumination.
These small changes can make a surprisingly big difference, often costing less than a few hundred dollars while greatly improving the home’s perceived value.
3. Repair or Refresh Siding and Paint
The condition of your home’s exterior materials—whether it’s siding, stucco, brick, or paint—can make or break a sale. Buyers tend to assume that visible exterior damage is a sign of deeper maintenance issues, even if that’s not the case.
Here’s how to evaluate and enhance your exterior:
- Power wash surfaces: Before deciding on any major updates, start by power washing the home’s exterior, driveway, and walkways. This can remove years of dirt and grime and reveal the true condition of the materials.
- Repair siding or stucco: Look for cracked, warped, or missing pieces of siding and get them professionally repaired. The same goes for chipped or damaged stucco.
- Repaint where needed: If the paint is peeling, faded, or stained, a fresh coat can dramatically increase the home’s curb appeal. Neutral colors tend to attract more buyers, so avoid anything too bold.
- Touch up trim and shutters: Even if a full paint job isn’t in the budget, updating trim, shutters, or the garage door can add visual interest and make the home look more finished.
Remember, buyers often make their decision within minutes of arriving. Ensuring the exterior is clean, cohesive, and cared for helps communicate that the inside of the home will be just as impressive.
Final Thoughts
Making a few key exterior updates before listing your home for sale is one of the best ways to attract serious buyers and potentially increase your home’s value. By focusing on landscaping, the front entry, and the overall condition of your siding and paint, you can create a great first impression that gets your property noticed—and sold.
Want a quick, no-hassle way to sell your home as-is? Contact WIHomeBuyers for a fast, fair offer and skip the repairs altogether!