By David Hochman
Illustration by GlenN Harvey
LOOKS MATTER, especially in real estate. A welcoming exterior doesn’t just attract potential buyers—it creates a pleasant, inviting atmosphere for family, friends and neighbors. Studies show that strategic exterior improvements can increase your home’s value by up to 7 percent, translating to significant returns on modest investments. For example, spending about $3,500 on curb appeal can add $12,000 to your home’s value, according to the National Association of Realtors. That’s like finding $8,500 in your garden! Here are some tips to maximize your returns—or just to make your home easier on the eye with cost-effective updates.
Upgrade Your Mailbox
If yours is showing its age, consider replacing it. Choose something that pleases you every time you collect your mail.
Cost: $50–200
Expected return: Possibly not huge, but it’s amazing what it can do for your street presence.
Shape the Greenery
Trimming overgrown shrubs is a relatively low-cost fix, but the upside is huge. Whether you grab the shears yourself or hire a pro, manicured shrubs and trees often nudge buyers’ offers upward.
Cost: $300–3,400
Expected return: 90%
Fix Up That Driveway
A cracked driveway drags down curb appeal. Patch, power wash stains, or consider resealing.
Cost: $150 for minor repairs to $3,000+ for major
Expected return: 50–75%
Just Add Flowers
Frame walkways or driveways with vibrant flowers like marigolds, petunias or impatiens, and add fresh soil for a clean, finished look.
Cost: $100–300
Expected return: 100%, plus daily doses of color therapy
Brighten Your Front Door
Make your door more inviting with a fresh coat of quality paint in a welcoming color, and consider putting in a steel door, which can add value and increase home security.
Cost: $150–2,500+
Expected return: 100%
Wash Your Home
Windows and siding usually don’t need expensive replacement to shine—just a good scrub. A professional house-washing service can whisk away years of dust and cobwebs, instantly brightening your home’s complexion.
Cost: $200–400
Expected return: Up to 80%
Add More Lighting
Good outdoor lighting adds sparkle and well-being. Well-placed solar-powered or hardwired lights along paths, for example, ensure a safer evening entry.
Cost: $200–3,000
Expected return: 60%
Mow and Weed
A mow, crisp edging, a little weed-whacking can work wonders. Boost your lawn’s glow with a dose of fertilizer.
Cost: $340–415 for a pro
Expected return: 200%
Landscape Smart
Plant a striking ornamental tree as a focal point, and use drought-tolerant options such as lavender or succulents for low-maintenance elegance.
Cost: $100–300
Expected return: 100%
Small Touches
● FIX YOUR FENCE
Secure any wobbly fence posts (they’re not supposed to wave back!).
● ENLARGE NUMBERS
Help delivery, EMT and homebuying folks find you on their very first try.
● UPGRADE MAT
Add a large new welcome mat for a more inviting entry.
● WREATH IT!
Seasonal wreaths will make every-one who shows up smile.
PRO TIP:
You don’t need to tackle everything at once. Start with what bothers you most—or what will give you the biggest bang for your buck.
AARP RESOURCES
At aarp.org/homeandcommunity you’ll find free guides and tools to help you maintain a comfortable, safe home and foster a community that will meet your needs as you age. In the market for a new home? Go to aarp.org/livabilityindex to learn about key features and services that support active and healthy aging in the neighborhoods that you’re considering moving to.