How to Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal on a Budget

by TeamPete Realty Services

If you're preparing to sell your home—or simply want to be the house everyone admires on the block—curb appeal matters. First impressions in real estate aren't just powerful, they're profitable. The good news? You don’t need to drain your bank account to boost your home’s exterior. With a few smart, cost-effective upgrades, you can make your property more attractive to buyers and passersby alike.

Here’s how to increase your home’s curb appeal on a budget.

Front of a well-maintained home with DIY landscaping and budget-friendly curb appeal upgrades

1. Refresh Your Landscaping (Without Hiring a Crew)

Basic landscaping can make a major difference. Start with a well-manicured lawn—mow, edge, and remove weeds. Add fresh mulch to flower beds and consider planting colorful, low-maintenance annuals like marigolds or impatiens. Got a green thumb? Container gardens or hanging baskets can add instant charm to porches and entryways.

Pro tip: Borrow tools from neighbors or local tool libraries to save on equipment costs.

2. Paint the Front Door

A freshly painted front door makes a bold, welcoming statement. Opt for modern, high-contrast colors like navy, forest green, or even a pop of red—just make sure it complements your home’s exterior.

Cost: Around $30 for paint and supplies
Return: High—studies show homes with updated front doors often sell faster.

3. Update House Numbers and Hardware

Modern house numbers, a sleek mailbox, and updated light fixtures can elevate your entryway. These elements are relatively inexpensive but go a long way in showing buyers your home is well maintained.

4. Pressure Wash Everything

Driveways, sidewalks, siding, porches, and decks accumulate grime over time. A good pressure wash can make them look brand new. Rent a washer for a weekend, or borrow one if you can. It’s a small effort for a big transformation.

5. Add Budget-Friendly Outdoor Lighting

Solar-powered path lights or lanterns are inexpensive and easy to install. Lighting not only adds charm but also boosts safety and nighttime visibility—an often overlooked curb appeal detail.

6. Fix What’s Broken

Take a walk around your home and look at it through a buyer’s eyes. Loose railings? Cracked steps? Peeling paint? Fixing these small things adds up—and prevents buyers from seeing your home as a “fixer-upper.”

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact

You don’t need a full-scale renovation to make your home shine from the street. By focusing on a few affordable updates, you’ll enhance curb appeal and attract more buyers—especially if you’re getting ready to list.

Need advice tailored to your home’s needs? At TeamPete Realty Services, we help sellers showcase their homes in the best possible light—without breaking the bank.