Make your property look good from the outside in by focusing on these five key exterior areas. Make sure to maximize the livable parts of your outdoor space.

Landscaping

Essentials

• Prune bushes, trees and shrubs, in spring and summer.
• Mow and edge the lawn. Seed, if needed.
• Weed and maintain flower beds, lawns and planters.

Distinctive Touch

• Create a focal point in the yard. Add a bench to areas that curve inward. Add a tree, water feature or decorative brick to flower beds.
• Lay fresh mulch in flower and tree beds.
• Add lighting on walkways, shine lights on trees, keep lights in working condition and remove cobwebs, dirt, etc.

House Exterior

Essentials

• Clear roof and gutters of all debris.
• Inspect the paint or siding. Touch up paint where needed and consider power washing.
• Wash all windows and remove screens.

Distinctive Touch

• Make sure the house number is visible.
• Check the mailbox for chips and dents. Replace, if needed.
• Paint front door for a fresh accent.

Front Porch

Essentials

• Keep your entryway and porch swept and clean. Put away all toys, bikes, scooters, etc.
• Polish all exterior metal. Replace door hardware, if necessary.
• Make sure doorbell and exterior lights are working properly.

Distinctive Touch

• Create an inviting focal point in your entryway by adding a chair or bench.
• Use large planters filled with flowers or evergreens to welcome visitors.
• Get a new welcome mat that matches the style of the house.

Rear Deck / Outdoor Spaces

Essentials

• Clean or power wash concrete steps, patios, siding and decks.
• Clean and repaint wood and wicker furniture. Clean or replace cushions.
• Clean and rinse umbrellas. Eliminate mildew.

Distinctive Touch

• Create a separate and inviting outdoor dining and entertainment space.
• Create a warm environment with an outdoor sofa and accent cushions, arranged similar to indoor living rooms.
• Add sealer to decks to make them look almost new.
• Keep open electronically controlled glass doors or screens that fold, slide or drop down to show how indoor and outdoor spaces flow together.

Driveway

Essentials

• Fix pavement/driveway cracks.
• Remove visible oil stains.
• Seal driveway for a fresh look.

Distinctive Touch

• Keep cars off the driveway and away from the front of the house.
• Keep garage doors down during Open Houses, or when the house is shown.
• Power wash garage doors and clean windows.

Creating Curb Appeal: Prepping Your Outside Space