Curb Appeal and Home Value: Why It Matters and How to Improve It

First impressions can make or break a home sale. Buyers begin evaluating a property the second they see it, long before they walk through the front door. Focusing on curb appeal and home value can significantly enhance the appearance of your home to potential buyers, making it an important aspect of the selling process and helping your listing stand out.

Curb appeal includes everything visible from the street, such as the lawn, landscaping and entryway. When the exterior looks well-maintained, buyers are more likely to view the home as valuable and well-cared-for. We’ll show you how to improve curb appeal with simple, effective updates that can increase home value and support a successful sale.

Improving curb appeal is one of the most cost-effective ways to enhance home value. Homes with well-maintained landscaping not only make a stronger first impression, but they can also increase a property’s resale price by around 15-20% when landscaping is professionally maintained — a real “green premium” buyers notice before they even walk through the door.  

That return on investment comes from perception. Buyers often equate an attractive exterior with overall home care, which can influence offers, appraisals and time on market. Simple improvements like fresh plantings, trimmed shrubs or an upgraded lawn can make a meaningful difference when it’s time to sell.  

By focusing on curb appeal and home value, sellers can prioritize strategic enhancements that pay off throughout the entire selling process. 

If you’re preparing to list your home, focus first on updates that are highly visible, easy to maintain and signal that the home has been well-loved.

Maintain a Healthy Lawn

A green, full lawn instantly makes a property feel clean and welcoming. Regular mowing, proper watering and the correct fertilizations help grass recover from seasonal stress and stay healthy throughout the selling season.  

Refresh Landscaping

Updated landscaping can quickly elevate curb appeal. Choose plants that suit your home’s size and style and keep garden beds neatly edged. Adding fresh mulch is a simple upgrade that delivers an immediate, polished look.  

Improve the Entryway

The front entry is a natural focal point for buyers. Small updates like replacing dated light fixtures, adding planters or tidying up the front door area can make your home feel more inviting.  

Address Small Exterior Details

Minor exterior updates can have a big impact. Simple tasks like replacing an outdated mailbox, trimming overgrown shrubs or power washing walkways help eliminate distractions and reinforce the sense that the home has been properly maintained without requiring a major investment.

Maximize Curb Appeal for the Selling Season

Tailoring curb appeal to the season can help your home look its best at any time of year. In spring and summer, healthy lawns and seasonal flowers add color and energy that make a strong first impression. In fall and winter, focus on cleanliness and structure by keeping leaves cleared, walkways tidy and entry areas in top shape to create a neat, welcoming look even without greenery.

Season-appropriate updates help your home feel cared for year-round and ensure curb appeal supports buyer interest no matter when your home hits the market. 

If your goal is to improve curb appeal while supporting long-term home value, focus on updates that enhance both appearance and function.

• Keep walkways clear and well-defined to guide foot traffic and improve safety.
• Use landscaping to frame the home and create visual balance.
• Maintain consistent lawn care to support healthy, even growth.
• Highlight architectural features with thoughtfully placed plants or exterior lighting.

Together, these improvements create a cohesive exterior that appeals to buyers, strengthens first impressions and reinforces your home’s overall value.

Does curb appeal add value?

Yes. Strong curb appeal can increase a home’s perceived value by attracting buyers and supporting higher offers.

Does curb appeal increase home value?

Curb appeal can increase home value by improving first impressions and influencing buyer perception throughout the selling process.

How can I improve curb appeal?  

Start with lawn care, clean landscaping and simple exterior updates that enhance the home’s appearance from the street.

How can I improve the curb appeal of a split-level home?

Focus on balanced landscaping, clearly defined walkways and a healthy lawn to create a unified look across levels.