6 Budget-friendly Curb Appeal Upgrades

Curb appeal is the first impression that any potential buyer receives, so you should ensure that the front of your home, from the curb to the facade of the house itself, is in the best shape it can be in — even if you don't have the budget to splurge on huge upgrades and services.

With these easy and cost-effective suggestions, you can improve the curb appeal of your home, while giving yourself a lovelier residence to enjoy right now.

Paint your front door
Giving your front door a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the overall appeal of your house. Make sure that it's a color that contrasts with the color of the main body of the house, so that it pops out more than it would otherwise. This makes a home feel more welcoming, not to mention more stylish and appealing.
Spice up your front porch
After painting your door, don't neglect your front porch! Add small, inexpensive luxuries like metal house numbers or other decorations. Make sure everything is spotless as well. Sparkling windows and a freshly swept porch make for a more welcoming home, and a more welcoming home often sells far more easily.
Get your lawn in order
Tidying up your lawn is a given. Making sure it's spick-and-span, regardless of the season, is a great way to improve your curb appeal without spending much money — or any money at all! An unkempt lawn can make the house seem less appealing overall, so before showings, make sure your lawn has been mowed and edged for a more professional appearance. Also try to ensure that weeds are pulled. The healthier the lawn looks, the healthier the house looks.
Plant flowers
Having a garden with flowers can really make a home stick out in a buyer's mind. The pops of color can improve even the most immaculately manicured lawn, and a healthy garden can make any house feel more welcoming to anyone possibly looking to buy a home. It's an inexpensive way to improve your home's overall aesthetic, and can also give you a brand-new hobby.
Hose off the front of your home and sidewalks
No need to buy a pressure washer — your standard garden hose is usually sufficient to get most of the gunk and grime off your house. You want your house to be as clean as possible for potential buyers and guests.
Touch up your driveway
Repairing the cracks in your driveway can go a long way toward making your house more accessible in the mind of a buyer. Even superficial flaws such as driveway cracks can really sour someone's opinion of an otherwise beautiful house. And a smoother driveway is easier on your car's tires and suspension.