A home’s exterior is the first impression potential buyers will ever see, and first impressions matter. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to take pride in your property, upgrading your curb appeal can make your home stand out in the neighborhood. In fact, more than half of homeowners believe that an attractive exterior and well-designed landscaping can add $20,000 or more to resale value, with 16% estimating the boost could exceed $50,000, according to Thumbtack & Nextdoor.
Even better, according to the National Association of REALTORS® 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, a yard upgrade can recover up to 100% of its cost at resale, making it one of the most valuable home improvement projects. With buyers ranking outdoor features like porches and landscaping among their top priorities, a little effort on your home’s exterior can pay off in a big way.
Here are five proven strategies to refresh your home’s curb appeal and maximize its value.
1. Showcase the Front Porch as a Relaxation Zone
Your front porch isn’t just an entry point, it’s a lifestyle statement. Buyers increasingly view porches as a top must-have feature, with a 2024 National Association of Home Builders survey ranking it among the most desirable elements in a new home.
How to elevate your porch appeal:
Add inviting seating such as Adirondack chairs, a bistro table set, or a porch swing.
Highlight the entryway with seasonal décor, like potted flowers or hanging baskets bursting with color.
Incorporate cozy touches like outdoor rugs, pillows, or lanterns to make the space feel welcoming.
By styling your porch as an extension of your living area, you immediately send the message that your home is both welcoming and functional.
2. Brighten Exteriors with Window Boxes
If you want to add personality and color to your home, few upgrades deliver like window boxes. These timeless additions draw the eye upward, complement the home’s architecture, and create vibrant seasonal displays.
Tips for choosing and styling window boxes:
Use them selectively—focus on large picture windows or upper-story windows for the biggest impact.
Plant arrangements using the classic “thriller, filler, spiller” formula:
Thriller: a taller centerpiece plant for vertical interest
Filler: lush greenery to create fullness
Spiller: cascading flowers for dimension and color
Match the color palette of your blooms to your home’s siding, trim, or shutters for a polished look.
This small investment adds charm and visual interest, making your home look thoughtfully maintained and stylish.
3. Add Texture with Natural Elements
Landscaping isn’t only about greenery—texture plays a huge role in creating an appealing outdoor environment. Incorporating natural elements like stone, gravel, and foliage variety can transform a flat yard into a layered masterpiece.
Low-maintenance texture ideas:
Replace traditional mulch with river rocks or crushed gravel for durability and contrast.
Add ornamental grasses or plants with flowing foliage to create movement and softness.
Position boulders or stone accents strategically to anchor the design and draw the eye.
The combination of textures makes your yard feel dynamic, professional, and easy to maintain—something every buyer appreciates.
4. Upgrade Outdoor Lighting for Style and Security
Lighting not only enhances safety but also dramatically improves curb appeal, especially after dark. A thoughtfully lit exterior highlights your home’s best features while creating an inviting atmosphere.
Outdoor lighting upgrades to consider:
Pathway lights: Install along walkways for both beauty and safety.
Porch lighting: Choose trendy boxed lanterns in black or antique bronze, or add a statement pendant over the entryway.
Landscape spotlights: Angle lights upward to highlight architectural details, trees, or shrubs.
Solar options: Skip complex wiring by using solar-powered lights for energy efficiency and convenience.
By combining practical and aesthetic lighting, your home will impress at all hours, especially important during evening showings.
5. Simplify and Edit for Maximum Impact
Sometimes, less is more. An overcrowded yard with too many decorations or plants can overwhelm buyers. Instead, focus on simplicity, balance, and highlighting your home’s best assets.
Editing strategies for curb appeal:
Establish a clear focal point, such as the front porch or entryway.
Prune shrubs and trim trees to keep pathways visible and inviting.
Avoid cluttering the yard with excess décor, statues, or mismatched planters.
Maintain clean lines so buyers see a home that feels manageable, not high-maintenance.
A clean, organized exterior conveys pride of ownership and reassures buyers about ongoing maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Improving curb appeal doesn’t require a massive budget. With smart upgrades like a styled front porch, window boxes, textured landscaping, modern lighting, and a simplified design, you can significantly increase both your home’s attractiveness and its resale value. These exterior improvements not only make your property the star of the neighborhood but also provide measurable ROI when it’s time to sell.
Whether you’re preparing for the market or just want to enjoy your home more, refreshing your curb appeal is one of the most effective and rewarding home improvement projects you can tackle.
King & Edge Real Estate Agents in Boise, Idaho
As experienced Boise real estate agents, we are honored to have the opportunity to serve you and be a part of your real estate journey. Let us guide you towards a successful and rewarding experience, where your goals become our goals, and your vision becomes a reality. Contact us today and discover the unparalleled service and expertise that sets King & Edge Real Estate apart as we help you sell your home in Boise or find your place to call home.
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Stacey King Boise Real Estate Agent
Raised in a family engaged in custom building and real estate appraisal, Stacey was destined for a career in real estate. Moving to Boise in 2010, she developed a deep love for the area, purchasing her first home in 2016, a step that ignited her passion to help others experience the transformative power of homeownership. Stacey has built her business on integrity, exceptional client experience, meaningful relationships, and community investment. She dedicates a portion of each commission to support local and global charities, with a special passion for the Women’s and Children’s Alliance, aiding victims of domestic abuse. Stacey’s commitment to her clients and her community has paved the way for enduring friendships and a fulfilling career.
