When you think about home improvement projects, you probably start to sweat a little bit as the cost estimates roll in. Those high dollar figures can go a long way toward making big changes in your house, but at what cost – literally! Especially if you’re looking to sell your house, it might make more sense to steer clear of the huge renovation projects and find smaller things that can add up and make a big difference.
One of the best places to start? Outside. First impressions are important when it comes to selling your home, so you’ll definitely want to take the opportunity to make people stop and stare. That’s why today, we’ve put together this list of a few DIY projects that can boost your curb appeal, increase your bottom line, and all without breaking the bank.
Slap On A Fresh Coat of Paint
When it comes to budget-friendly improvements, few are easier on the wallet yet more impactful on the eyes than a fresh coat of paint. For the most part, exterior grade paint isn’t too expensive. A good quality product will likely cost about $30 a gallon – so you can pick up a few cans and go to town for under $100! A bold hue for the front door and shutters can go a long way, as long as you don’t go too crazy on the color choices. And then throw in a fresh coat of paint for the trim – preferably in a color that balances out the other fixtures – and you’ll wind up with a great first impression that helps your house stand out among the rest.
Mail Call & Numbers, Numbers, Numbers
You may not think about it because you see it every day, but that dingy old mailbox isn’t doing you any favors when someone walks or drives by your house for the first time. Upgrading to a new mailbox – and not necessarily going for the absolute cheapest option – can be a game changer when it comes to painting that picture for potential buyers where they can envision themselves “coming home”.
Similarly, those tired house numbers (if you even have them to begin with) can make your house hard to find and seem unwelcoming. Grabbing some shiny new numbers, in a style that goes with the rest of your home’s aesthetic, can be a simple touch that makes a world of difference.
Let There Be Lights
Whether you’ve already got exterior lighting or not, chances are good that it hasn’t been upgraded in a while. Mounting new lighting fixtures can be a pain, but it’s totally worth it when it comes to completing your home’s shiny new look. If you do already have exterior lights, finding ones with the same mounting system can make installation a little easier – and if you don’t, you can always get a professional to help (although it will increase the cost a bit).
Lighting pro-tip: When choosing new lighting fixtures, make sure to pick a style that complements your home – right down to the bulb itself. If you’ve got an older home, you’ll want warm, fluorescent-style lights that enhance your home’s features. Conversely, if you have a newer home, you may opt for a more modern feel with cooler, stark white lighting.