Creating a great first impression starts from the outside. If a home has good curb appeal, that means it’s attractive to the eye and inspires confidence. Curb appeal is an effective way to get potential buyers in the door. Great curb appeal helps sell a home faster and often for more money because of its positive impact on buyers.

Even in today’s low-inventory housing market, it’s essential to evaluate your home’s curb appeal before putting it on the market. Not putting some effort into ensuring your home’s exterior looks its best can deter potential buyers and drive down the perceived value of your home. It often doesn’t take much time or money to improve your home’s curb appeal.

Nine Ways to Improve Your Curb Appeal

1. Declutter and Clean
Keep your driveway, walkways, and lawn free of unnecessary clutter. Gather and store toys, yard tools, old newspapers, garden hoses, and excessive lawn ornaments. Simplify so that your home’s architecture and landscaping are what people notice.

2. Wash the Siding and Windows
If your home’s exterior is dirty, use a pressure washer to remove dust, grime, mold, mildew, and algae stains from the siding. Make sure to thoroughly clean windows both inside and out. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure your windows are free from streaks, dirt, and dust.

3. Upgrade Your Mailbox
If your mailbox has seen better days, replace it. Choose a mailbox that blends in with others in your neighborhood. Add flowers at the base for a pop of color. Remember to place easy-to-read house numbers on the new mailbox.

4. Replace Your House Numbers
Nothing is more frustrating than not being able to locate an address when you’re house hunting. If your house numbers are faded, too small, or out of style, replace them. Look for modern house numbers made from aluminum, brass, or steel. If possible, match the finish on your home’s exterior light fixtures.

5. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Overgrown yards not only block the view of a home, but they also look uninviting to neighbors and potential buyers. Overgrown landscaping can damage the siding on your home and act as a natural bridge for squirrels, raccoons, and mice that might try to gain access to your home. To keep your home from looking unkempt, regularly trim shrubs and trees.

6. Clean Driveways and Sidewalks
Too often, it’s easy to focus on the landscaping and forget about the hardscape areas, including concrete sidewalks and driveways. Use a pressure washer to clean off dirt and grime and give these areas a fresh, clean appearance. Ensure paver stones, stepping stones, or bricks are secure and create safe footing for visitors walking to and from your home.

7. Stage Your Front Entrance
Your home’s front entrance is the focal point of your curb appeal. Thoroughly clean the entrance and add a new doormat. Make a statement by giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. If your door is outdated or damaged, replace it with a new entry door. Liveable outdoor space is in high demand. If you have a front porch, add furniture to create a welcoming atmosphere. Even a small chair or table can boost an entrance area’s curb appeal.

8. Replace or Paint Shutters
Shutters are a focal point on homes, so paint or replace them if yours are faded, chipped, or look outdated. Updating your shutters with a fresh coat of paint will give your home an instant upgrade for minimal cost. Replacing dated or damaged shutters is a low-cost upgrade that will instantly improve your home’s appearance.

9. Clean and Repair the Roof and Gutters
Your roof makes up a large percentage of your home’s exterior. If your roof is damaged, dirty, or missing shingles, it can hurt the value of your home. Sometimes a thorough cleaning and minor repairs are all that is needed to make your roof look new again. Make sure gutters are clean and properly attached to your home as well.

First Impressions Matter in Real Estate
You only get one chance to make a first impression. Buyers often assume that a home with good curb appeal has been well maintained and is worth more than similar homes. A few simple upgrades can improve your home’s curb appeal and make it more appealing to prospective buyers when it’s time to sell your home.