Maximizing Your Curb Appeal: 7 Easy Updates to Boost Your Home’s Value
Introduction:
Don’t underestimate the power of curb appeal - a well-maintained and good looking exterior can actually increase your home’s value by as much as 7% according to a study.
Younger generations are really paying attention to how things look on the outside. A recent study revealed that 75 percent of homeowners believe it’s important that their yard or home’s exterior looks impeccable. Also, Gen Z (47%) and millennials (46%) were more likely to cite curb appeal – like the color of the home, decks, and balconies – as a reason for buying a home than other generations. Another poll suggests that, on average, homeowners judge a house with high curb appeal to be 34% more valuable than the exact same house with poor curb appeal.
The front entrance of the house is the first thing potential buyers see when they arrive, and knowing that curb appeal can have a big impact on the perceived value of your home, it’s a no-brainer that doing a few updates there can go a long way!
Here’s some easy (and not overly expensive) upgrades you can make to boost your home’s value:
1. Landscaping Makeover:
Landscaping can sometimes be the most expensive investment in the exterior of your home, but it is also the most important. A well-kept lawn is important, so make sure it is trimmed. Simple updates like fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, seasonal flowers, and healthy grass can make a big difference. If your budget allows, consider hiring a professional landscaper to reimagine your front yard with added curb appeal—this might include planting native shrubs or adding a pathway,
2. Front Door Refresh:
A bold new color or updated hardware can make a statement. If your front door is looking dingy or dated it may be a big turn-off when potential buyers are walking into your home for the first time. The good news is that it is so simple and inexpensive to scrub it clean or add a fresh coat of paint to your front door. You can even grab some new hardware which would really bring it up a notch.
3. Outdoor Lighting:
Adding warmth and safety with pathway or porch lights can make a big impression. Installing outdoor lighting can cost more than a few hundred dollars when hiring a professional, but if you are a seasoned DIYer, you can purchase and install pathway lights for under $250.
4. House Numbers & Mailbox:
If these are located at or near the entrance of your home and haven’t been given some love in a while, it might be time to give those house numbers a fresh coat of paint or that mailbox a refresh. Consider swapping smaller cursive numbers for larger and more modern ones. These may be small, but the small things add up.
5. Power Washing & Paint Touch-Ups:
This will instantly brighten siding, walkways, and decks. If you don’t own a pressure washer, you can rent one for a day from your local hardware supply store for under $100. If it hasn’t been done in a while, pressure washing the driveway and any stone pathways will make your front entrance look ten times better. Another simple fix is to refresh any paint that may be showing, such as the foundation or steps.
6. Cozy Outdoor Spaces:
If you don’t already have one, add a small seating area to create a welcoming vibe on the front porch even if space is limited. A pair of chairs with a small bistro table, a cozy bench with throw pillows, or even a hanging swing can help buyers envision themselves relaxing and enjoying the home.
7. Seasonal Touches:
Potted plants, a fresh doormat, or a tasteful seasonal wreath can subtly reflect the time of year and show that the home is thoughtfully maintained. In spring and summer, vibrant blooms add color and cheer. In fall, pumpkins or planters with mums bring warmth and coziness. Even winter months offer opportunities with evergreen arrangements or twinkle lights. These touches make a property feel lived-in and loved, which resonates on an emotional level with potential buyers
Conclusion:
Small upgrades to your home’s exterior can make a big difference in how quickly it sells—and for how much. If you're thinking about listing your home in Woodinville, Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue, or the surrounding area, I’d be happy to offer a pre-listing consultation. Together, we can walk through personalized curb appeal tips to help your home stand out from the moment buyers arrive.
📩 Reach out today to schedule a consultation or learn more about preparing your home for the market.
