When someone comes to a showing of your property, the first thing they’ll see is the front of the home. They might not ever recover their initial enthusiasm if you make a bad impression. 

Consider making some minor investments to improve your home’s exterior appeal, and it could yield substantial benefits. Here are a few quick or inexpensive projects that can really help maximize your investment: 

Renew and Refresh Landscaping

Improve your garden areas by trimming shrubs and tree branches, filling in spaces with easy-care plants and removing weeds.

Update mulch and replace any damaged, worn or displaced edging. For an added pop of color, install blooming plants in attractive containers in a range of heights. Small decorative trees can be a great addition. Consider fast-growing options such as dogwood or Japanese maple. 

Install Outdoor Lighting

Strategically positioned outdoor lighting enhances curb appeal and makes your home safer. Highlighting trees can create a sculptural effect around your landscaping at night, while eliminating potential hazards on walkways and stairs.

If you don’t want a permanently installed lighting system, solar-powered options are economical and still provide noticeable visual interest. 

Replace Old Hardware

Sometimes, the smallest details can refresh your home’s appearance, like new hardware. Coordinating a set of new door handles, locks, light fixtures, mailboxes and house numbers will create a more cohesive look.

Brushed nickel works well with modern designs, while oiled bronze finishes accentuate more traditional homes. 

Scrub and Polish 

Grab a power washer to clean your home’s exterior, along with sidewalks, decks, patios, driveways and any other surfaces that are visible from the street.

Just make sure to carefully review the equipment’s safety and usage guidelines, including how to correctly mix cleaning solutions.

If you don’t own one, power washers are often available for rent at home improvement stores.

Install Window Boxes

Feeling handy? Installing simple window boxes can also add new vibrancy and character to your property.

Build or buy one based on your home’s architectural style, then combine various plants that fit lighting conditions and your local climate.

If you’re unsure, look to local garden center professionals for suggestions on low-maintenance plants that are recommended in your area.