4 Easy Ways to Increase Your Curb Appeal

If your home’s curb appeal makes a great first impression, everyone — including potential homebuyers — will want to see what’s inside.

Dress up the front door

Your home’s front entry is the focal point of its curb appeal. Make a statement by giving your front door a blast of color with paint or by installing a custom wood door. Clean off any dirty spots around the knob, and use metal polish on the door fixtures. Your entry should also reflect the home’s interior, so choose a swag or a wreath that reflects your personal style.

Replace old hardware

House numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, and an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home’s exterior. If they’re out of date or dingy, your home may not be conveying the aesthetic you think it is. These elements add the most appeal when they function collectively, rather than as mix-and-match pieces. Oiled-bronze finishes suit traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits more contemporary ones.

Install window boxes

Window boxes offer a fast, easy way to bring color and charm to your home exterior. Choose boxes made from copper or iron for a traditional look, or painted wood for a cottage feel. Mix and match flowers and plants to suit your lighting conditions and color scheme.

Update inefficient windows

You don’t have to put up with drafty rooms. Trade in old, energy-squandering windows for new, high-performance units that swing in for easy cleaning. Windows marked with the Energy Star label can cut your fuel bills by as much as $340 per year over drafty single-pane units, which means major savings for as long as you own your home.