Your home's exterior can either stun buyers or drive them away. Potential buyers make quick judgments about your house within minutes of seeing it. Strategic upgrades can transform your home's appearance and market value.
Real estate experts agree that smart exterior improvements can significantly boost your property's worth. If you're considering selling or want to enhance your home's appeal, these five upgrades can make a substantial difference.
1. Upgraded Landscaping
A beautifully landscaped yard creates a welcoming atmosphere and increases your property’s value by as much as 267%. Mow the lawn, trim the shrubs, and remove any weeds or debris. Add colorful flowers and plants to make it look nicer. According to Lawnstarter, updated landscaping and lawn care can increase the chances of selling your home by 10–15%.
Moreover, standard landscaping maintenance projects like lawn mowing, yard cleanup, and bush and tree trimming provide an ROI of 100%. Planting trees can increase your property value. Trees create contrast and provide shade, which can offset utility expenses. Tree care offers 100% resale value. Likewise, installing an irrigation system costs between $2,539 and $4,773. However, it has 86% ROI.
Choose seasonal plants that are easy to care for and do well in your climate. These simple updates make your outdoor space aesthetically fascinating and functional for interested buyers. If you're considering selling your house soon, it's wise to plan your landscaping with that in mind. Learn how to sell your house in a few easy steps to ensure your landscaping efforts contribute to a successful sale.
According to John Buys Bay Area Houses, it helps determine which strategic upgrades can maximize your house’s value and appeal. For instance, adding hardscaping elements creates inviting outdoor spaces. It could be a paved walkway, a stone patio, or a retaining wall.
They also add a touch of elegance to your property. If you can, install outdoor lighting. This will highlight your landscaping and make it safer at night.
2. Garage Door Replacement
The garage door is often a main feature of your home's exterior. According to AOL, replacing it is a straightforward and the most cost-effective way to enhance your home’s exterior. This is especially true if your current door is old or damaged. A new garage door has an impressive ROI of up to 195%, thanks to its impact on curb appeal.
The median cost of a door installation is about $4,515, while the resale value averages around $8,750. This means that it will repay 193.9% of your investment. This figure has increased by 91.2% from 2023. To maximize your investment, choose a modern garage door that complements your home's exterior.
Contemporary styles, such as carriage-house designs and steel or aluminum doors with fiberglass panels, add a touch of elegance. Also, think about how your garage door works and its efficiency. Look for features like insulation, automatic openers, and safety sensors. These upgrades can make your garage door more convenient and secure, helping you save energy.
3. New Entry Door
The entry door is your home’s focal point. HGTV reveals that replacing or upgrading your front door provides an ROI of up to 188%. Consider the material, style, and energy efficiency when deciding on a new entry door. Solid wood doors are the most expensive and offer a classic look. Meanwhile, fiberglass doors come in several styles and are durable and easy to maintain.
In comparison, steel doors are durable and cost-effective. The cost of a new steel door with a double-layered half-glass partition averages $2,355 and provides a resale value of $4,430. Choose a door that reflects your home's character and improves its look. It’s best to avoid bold choices, as it can turn off potential buyers. A welcoming entryway influences buyers from the moment they arrive. By focusing on this detail, you can set the tone for their experience inside the house.
4. New Exterior Siding
Exterior siding acts as a barrier and ornamental backdrop for your home. Replacing old or damaged siding provides an immediate facelift and protects against weather-related wear and tear. Bankrate highlights that new siding can improve your home's valuation and draw buyers. If you can't afford new siding, repair any damaged areas and repaint the existing siding.
When choosing new siding, explore different materials. These include vinyl, metal, fiber cement, or wood. Think about the robustness of the siding and how much upkeep it might require. Fiber-cement siding installation of 1,250 sq ft costs about 20,620 and provides an ROI of 88.4%. On the other hand, vinyl siding averages $17,410 and has a resale value of $13,957. You can also use stone veneers, which provide an ROI of 153.2%.
Select a color and texture that accentuates your home's decor. Energy-efficient siding options, such as insulated vinyl, can lower energy bills, making your home intriguing to responsible clients. This upgrade combines functionality and beauty, ensuring your property stands out.
5. New Roof
A busted or outdated roof is a huge red flag for buyers. After all, it’s a critical visual component that signals your property's overall condition. According to Zillow, about 1 in 5 sellers refurbish or patch up their roof before putting it for sale. Meanwhile, over 25% of sellers opt for a roof replacement.
The Journal of Light Construction estimates that replacing a roof in 2024 can yield an ROI of 48-57%, making it a sound investment. Asphalt coverings are known for their modest price, while metal roofing ensures durability and a crisp, contemporary look. An asphalt tile roof installation, on average, costs about $30,680, while a metal roof installation costs nearly $49,930.
Asphalt tiles provide an ROI of almost 57%, whereas metal slats provide just 48.1%. You can also make sure your roof has proper insulation. Buyers and insurance companies prioritize homes with roofs in excellent condition, as this upgrade provides peace of mind regarding future maintenance costs. When choosing a new roof, consider its durability, energy efficiency, and style.
Choose components that echo your home's aesthetic and color. If you’re selling, consider a roof inspection to determine if minor repairs or a complete replacement is necessary. A roofing contractor can help you make the right choices for your specifications and budget.
Commonly Asked Questions
Q1. What exterior paint colors increase home value?
Neutral colors like gray, beige, and white are always solid investments. They appeal to a broader range of buyers. However, consider your home's architectural style. A Victorian home might gain from bolder colors, while a minimalist home might go best with a sleek, monochromatic palette.
Q2. Should I upgrade my windows before listing my house?
New windows can improve energy efficiency and boost curb appeal. However, window replacement can be expensive. If your current windows are in decent condition, focus on other upgrades with a higher ROI, like a new garage or front door.
Q3. How can I maximize my home's curb appeal on a budget?
You don't need to empty your bank accounts to make a difference. Simple things like power washing your siding, adding fresh mulch, and painting your front door can improve curb appeal without breaking the bank.
Exterior upgrades are strategic investments in your home's value. By focusing on these five key areas, you can create a compelling property that stands out in the real estate market. Each improvement offers aesthetic and financial benefits.
Whether you’re planning to sell soon or want to improve your home’s aesthetics, these upgrades are a smart choice. Remember to make upgrades matching your home's style and your local climate. Consider your local market and consult real estate professionals for personalized advice tailored to your property and community.
