The exterior of your home makes the first impression on a visitor or potential home buyer. So, it’s important to improve curb appeal to make your home more welcoming and attractive. Here are a few easy and practical tips.

1. Paint the Front Door to Improve Curb Appeal

A new coat of paint significantly helps improve curb appeal. The front door complements the style of your home, and a freshly painted door sends the message that the home is well-cared for. Paint makes the door appear new and inviting. Repaint the entryway in its existing color or choose a bold new shade.

2. Clean Walkways and Sideways

It is common to focus on landscaping when working on your home’s surroundings. However, don’t overlook the hardscape areas like walkways and driveway. Clean the paths using a pressure washer to remove dirt, mildew, and debris. Install solar-powered LED lights along the walkway to illuminate the path and improve curb appeal after dark.

3. Improve Curb Appeal by Upgrading Your Mailbox

Your mailbox stands by the roadside, exposed to harsh weather elements. The rain, ice, and sun will affect it with time. If the mailbox is dented, rusty, or no longer attractive, purchase a new one. Follow your city guidelines in choosing and installing a new mailbox.

4. Boost the Garage Door

Most garage doors can be seen from a distance, but most are dull and lack interest. Give your garage door a lift by adding decorative hardware like faux window panels or handles. Alternatively, paint the door in a color that compliments the house. If the garage door faces the road, add house numbers to the door.

5. Clean the Roof to Improve Curb Appeal

The roof protects a home from harsh weather. It can be damaged by ice, snow, heavy rains, and UV rays. When preparing to list your home for sale, clean off the roof by removing sticks and tree limbs. Replace missing and broken shingles and remove algae and mildew growth.

6. Care for Your Lawn

An attractive, well-maintained lawn helps to improve curb appeal. Regularly mow the grass, pull weeds, and rake leaves from the lawn. Frequently water the grass to encourage growth and prevent brown spots. Create a lawn care routine so it won’t become an overwhelming project.

7. Add or Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

A dark entryway is not welcoming to potential buyers. Clean the front porch lights and replace them if they’re outdated or damaged. Clean dust and cobwebs from around the entryway and sweep the front porch. Install lighting on the front steps or hang string lights to illuminate the porch.

Improving curb appeal helps your home sell faster. Buyers will be interested in a home that appears attractive and well-maintained. For a successful sale, take time to boost the appearance of the exterior of your home.

Environmental Quality Inspection provides environmental home testing to Rhode Island and Southern Massachusetts. Contact us to request our services.