Street Appeal
The impression your property’s exterior and yard make on potential buyers — isn’t the biggest part of the buying decision, but it does have a huge impact on home sales:
Buyers decide within seconds of driving up to a house whether to take the next step and check out the inside. The vast majority of buyers view properties on the Internet and then drive by the ones that made a good impression online before contacting the sellers or a real estate professional. That means that the home selling process starts with the curb appealt
PRO TIP:
Most buyers view properties online and then drive by those that seem promising to take a look before they call their agent to tour the house. And because a lot of people work during the day, they drive by prospective properties at night.
Landscape lighting creates an ambiance that alters the look and feel of the house. Place the lights to resemble a runway design that borders the sides of your driveway, add spots that highlight specimen trees or shrubs, or stagger two or more lamp styles for a more creative approach.
Quick Checklist
🏠 Why Street Appeal Matters More Than Ever
When it comes to selling a home, first impressions are everything. A potential buyer’s initial reaction — formed before they even step inside — can strongly influence whether they make an offer. That’s where street appeal becomes a major factor. It refers to the overall attractiveness of a property when viewed from the street, and it’s essential for maximising perceived value.
From the home’s exterior to the landscaping, driveway, and entry path, every detail contributes to a buyer’s emotional response. A clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing property sets a positive tone that carries through the entire inspection.
🌿 Make Landscaping Work Hard for You
One of the most effective (and affordable) ways to boost street appeal is through landscaping.
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Mow and edge the lawn regularly
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Trim hedges and overgrown trees
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Weed garden beds and paths
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Add fresh mulch for that clean, just-done look
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Plant seasonal flowers or flowering shrubs to create warmth and colour
A neat and well-landscaped yard doesn’t just look good — it makes the whole property feel more spacious and welcoming.
🖌️ A Fresh Facade Makes a Big Difference
The condition of the home’s exterior is one of the first things buyers notice.
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Repaint faded or peeling surfaces – This makes a home feel fresh and well cared for
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Choose colours that complement the surroundings – Soft neutrals or natural tones are safest
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Paint the front door in a bold or fresh tone to create a focal point
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Touch up trims, eaves, and fences – A sharp finish signals attention to detail
These updates not only improve visual appeal — they also suggest the rest of the home is equally well maintained.
🧼 Clean Every Surface Buyers Will See
A sparkling exterior gives the impression of a well-maintained home:
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Pressure wash paths, driveways, walls, and steps
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Wash windows inside and out
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Remove cobwebs, dust, and dirt from eaves and porches
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Sweep leaves and debris from walkways
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Store bins neatly or out of sight
Even older homes feel newer when they’re squeaky clean.
💡 Light Up the Exterior (Even in Daylight)
Exterior lighting plays a role in both safety and style:
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Clean or replace outdated light fixtures
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Add warm white bulbs to make entryways feel more welcoming
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Install solar-powered garden lights to guide the pathway and accent landscaping
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Even during daytime inspections, good lighting shows attention to detail and atmosphere.
📸 Step Back and See What Buyers See
Once all updates are made, stand across the street and view your home through a buyer’s eyes:
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Does anything feel out of place or tired?
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Would it photograph well for an online listing?
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Is the path clear, clean, and inviting?
Better yet, take a photo on your phone — it’s a quick way to see how the home might appear in marketing.
💡 Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Payoff
Improving street appeal doesn’t have to mean major renovations. Simple, cost-effective updates — like mowing the lawn, repainting the front door, or adding a plant or two — can dramatically improve a buyer’s first impression.
With more competition in the market, homes that stand out from the curb sell faster and often for more. A well-presented exterior shows care, pride, and value — and it makes buyers excited to see what’s inside.
🧰 Fix What’s Broken — Buyers Will Notice
Buyers are quick to spot signs of neglect. To protect perceived value:
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Oil squeaky gates and doors
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Repair visible cracks in concrete, steps, or render
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Patch damaged fence panels or timberwork
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Replace or hide cracked pots, broken decor, or old garden tools
A home that looks move-in ready feels worth more.
