Whether you’re getting ready to put your house on the market or just want the best-looking home on the block boosting its curb appeal is the place to start. And the best part is it doesn’t take a lot of time money or DIY skill to do it. Here are five cheap and easy ways to increase your home’s curb appeal. 
Add Flower Boxes or Potted Plants
Installing flower boxes is an easy way to bring life and color to your home’s exterior and can give it a whole new look. Flower boxes are simple and inexpensive to make. Just be sure to change out the plants seasonally so there’s color showing year-round. For an even quicker solution strategically placed groupings of flowering potted plants can provide a similar effect. No green thumb? Try trendy succulents instead.
Make the Front Door Pop
A can of paint plus a few hours of your time can transform the look of your home. Painting the front door a bold bright hue is one of the easiest ways to add curb appeal and create an unmistakable “wow” factor. Think strong primary colors such as red blue or yellow—or go for more artistic choices like turquoise indigo or lime green. Don’t feel like painting? Give the door a deep clean to remove scuffs and fingerprints. Then polish the hardware add a flower or greenery wreath and put down a fresh welcome mat.
Add or Upgrade Outdoor Lighting
You know how the porch light gets filled with dried leaves and bugs? That’s not a good look. Keep outdoor lighting clean and free of debris. Add solar lighting stakes along the walkway or in the yard to bring a sense of warmth and welcome. Along with making your home look better good exterior lighting also helps deter crime.
Give the Mailbox a Makeover
A faded scratched dented or wobbly mailbox can detract from your home’s appearance. If yours looks tired it might be time to replace the whole thing. Or if it’s salvageable paint it a bright color pop out small dents and remount it on a sturdy post so it’s secure and standing tall.
Tidy Up Odds and Ends
When it comes to keeping your home looking clean and inviting little things make a big difference. Keep hoses rolled up neatly—or better yet hidden. Do the same with trash and recycling containers; don’t leave them out longer than necessary and keep them out of sight the rest of the week. Don’t let flyers newspapers or takeout menus pile up. And keep the entryway tidy and free of kids’ toys leaves or muddy boots. Staying on top of these tasks won’t cost a penny but goes a long way toward boosting curb appeal.
Wondering how much home you can afford? Our Home Affordability Calculator can help you figure it out.