Are you looking to sell your home in the next year or so? It’s time to start primping and prepping, both inside and out. As the weather warms up, boosting the curb appeal of your home will be a satisfying DIY project that can reap big rewards when it’s time to sell.

In fact, a recent study from Texas Tech University found that curb appeal can actually boost the value of a home by up to 17%!

Let’s get started sprucing up your home, shall we? Here are seven ways you can dramatically improve the exterior appearance and attract buyers.

Little Details, Big Difference

Taking care of the smallest details can provide big returns. Invest in a new mailbox, door knobs, knockers, and bells, and house numbers. It won’t cost very much, can be completed easily with just one trip to the hardware store, and will really freshen up the look of your home.

Freshen Up the Front Door

One great way to improve the curb appeal of your home? Paint your front door. Again, this is an easy DIY project that will make a big difference to potential buyers. Since the front door is a relatively small space, you can go a little crazy with color, too, without sacrificing a good impression.

Give Your Garage Door a Makeover

While you’re at it, why not give the garage door a fresh coat of paint? In this case, you’ll want to match the door to your home’s exterior. Since garage doors are something of an eyesore, you should do all you can to help them blend in, not stand out.

Say It with Solar

Although it’s true that most potential buyers will see your home for the first time in daylight, they may also drive by during the evening hours. Make sure your home is attractive at all times of the day by installing solar lights along the walkway.

Solar lighting can make your home sparkle — not just to buyers, but to your guests, as well.

Restore Your Driveway

You might not give your driveway much thought, but it deserves TLC just as much as your yard or home. Especially if it’s cracked, uneven, or otherwise unsightly, consider applying a water- or oil-based sealant. Pavement Planet has all the information you need on the differences between these two, and which is best for your driveway.

Look to Landscaping

Next time you drive up to your own house, take a good, long look at the yard. If you don’t like what you see, it may be time to look into landscaping. Got a green thumb? Take on this project yourself.

This is one project that’s well worth the investment to bring in the pros, however. Professional landscapers can advise you regarding the best options for plants to pump up your home’s curb appeal.

Outdoor Furniture For the Win

If you have outdoor furniture, either on your porch or on the lawn, make sure it’s up to par. Faded cushions, rusty old porch swings, or dated-looking tables will detract from the curb appeal you’re trying so hard to cultivate.

Give your furniture a once-over with some paint, opt for new cushions, or even spring for a new, matching set before putting your home on the market.

Now That You Have Curb Appeal

Now that you have overhauled the exterior of your home, it’s time to think about the interior. That means using technology as well as good old-fashioned staging to make your home an inviting, attractive space — indoors and out!

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