Clean lines are pleasing to the eye (even if we don't think about it consciously), which is why edging around garden beds creates an appealing effect.

You can use edging made of stone or plastic, or you can create a trench line using an edger to separate flower beds from grassy areas. Defined borders give landscapes a polished feel and help highlight any flowers or shrubs contained within them.

Replace Faded Mulch

New mulch is one of the simplest ways to give landscaping a fresh look. A dark brown or black layer in garden beds, around trees, and in flower beds can make colors pop and provide a nice contrast with your home’s color scheme and greenery.

Add Color with Seasonal Flowers

Flowers are an instant curb appeal booster that you can use to create a welcoming pathway of visual anchor points to guide people to the front door.

Annuals such as petunias, marigolds, and pansies offer vibrant colors with minimal upkeep. Perennials such as daylilies and hostas are reasonably low maintenance and do well in partial to full shade, while lavender thrives in full sunlight.

Trim Overgrown Bushes and Trees

Shrubs and trees can go from neat and trim to looking a bit unruly almost before we know it! Focus on removing dead branches, shaping hedges, and keeping pathways clear.

Tip: Trimming branches or shrubbery so that they don't block the view of the front door from the street removes a subconscious barrier to entry. (It's especially important to do this when a home is for sale.)

Pressure Wash Driveways and Walkways

It can be easy to not notice when walkways and driveways become dulled by dust or leaf debris until after a good pressure washing session, when you realize that your paved areas suddenly "pop" again.

Even surfaces that didn't seem significantly impacted by debris or moss can appear transformed once they're restored to their original brightness.

Add a Fire Pit or Outdoor Seating Area

Anything that adds living space to your home boosts its value and its fun factor, which is why outdoor living areas remain so popular.

A fire pit or fire table with a seating area requires a relatively small investment and provides a big payoff in terms of how much more usable and enjoyable it makes a back yard or balcony.

Install Solar Pathway Lights

Solar-powered pathway lights along walkways, driveways, and garden beds are pleasing to the eye (and add an extra layer of safety). These lights typically require no wiring and can often be easily installed by just staking them into the ground.

Add Window Boxes

Window boxes filled with colorful flowers or greenery can be an effective way to increase the charm and character of a home’s exterior.

Tip: If drainage from watering would affect the home's exterior siding, it might be better to choose a different curb appeal upgrade.

Install a Pergola or Shade Structure

Whether it's a pergola in a back yard, an awning over a deck, or a shade sail on a balcony, having a cover that lets you enjoy your outdoor spaces even when the sun is strong increases your home's usability and value. 

Add a Garden Bench or Small Water Feature

A well-placed garden bench or small water feature, such as a birdbath or fountain, adds a peaceful and inviting touch to your yard.

Choosing a bright bench color such as red, yellow, or crisp blue can create an appealing contrast that attracts the eye.

Tip: To make it easier for birds and bees to perch and drink safely, add stones or sticks to water fountain basins and bird baths.

Whether your goal is to appeal to future buyers or simply to enjoy a more beautiful exterior, these easy upgrade ideas help you quickly refresh your home's curb appeal with minimal effort and cost.