11 Ways to Improve Kerb Appeal: Sell Fast & Boost Value
Top 3 features to work on:
- A fresh front door, clean windows, & a tidy garden improve kerb appeal the most.
- Jet washing driveways and repainting exteriors provide instant visual improvement.
- Concealing bins, adding lighting, and fixing fences create a polished, welcoming look.
- Keep reading to discover more simple yet effective ways!
What Is Kerb Appeal
Kerb appeal is the overall attractiveness of a property when viewed from the street. It’s what creates a buyer’s first impression and influences whether they want to step inside. Factors like a well-maintained front garden, clean windows, fresh paintwork, and a welcoming entrance all contribute to making a home feel inviting and desirable.
How to Improve Your Property's Kerb Appeal
A recent survey found that 68% of buyers believe first impressions are crucial when viewing a home, with poor kerb appeal often leading to lower offers or outright rejections.
1. Refresh Your Front Door
Your front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior, setting the tone for potential buyers. A freshly painted door in a classic colour, paired with polished hardware, creates an inviting first impression—making your home feel well-maintained and desirable. Buyers are more likely to view a property positively when the entrance looks stylish and cared for.
Check the condition of door hardware—polish or replace handles, knockers, and letterboxes for a fresh look. A working doorbell is essential; upgrading to a smart doorbell can add convenience and security.
2. Clean Windows & Frames
Clean windows make a home look well cared for and allow more natural light inside. A professional clean or a simple DIY wipe-down with glass cleaner removes grime and streaks.
Pay attention to window frames—flaking paint or discolouration can make a property look tired. Sand and repaint wooden frames or wipe down uPVC for a like-new finish.
3. Tidy the Front Garden & Lawn
A neat front garden instantly boosts kerb appeal. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and pull out weeds to keep everything looking well-maintained.
If your garden lacks colour, add potted plants, hanging baskets, or window boxes with seasonal flowers to create a welcoming and lively atmosphere.
Each property style—like terraced, semi-detached, or detached—comes with its own landscaping considerations. Be sure to do your research on how to make your property type look the best.
4. Upgrade Your Pathway & Driveway
Your pathway and driveway set the stage for a visitor’s first impression. A quick jet wash removes dirt, moss, and stains, instantly freshening up the entrance.
Fill in cracks or repair loose paving to ensure a smooth, well-maintained path. If needed, consider edging the driveway with brick or stone for a polished, defined look.
5. Fix Fences & Gates
Strong, well-maintained fences and gates add to a home’s security and privacy—two key factors buyers consider. A fresh coat of paint, tightened hinges, and repaired panels can instantly boost kerb appeal, making the property feel more inviting and well-kept, which can help it sell faster.
A fresh coat of paint or varnish can instantly revive wooden fences, while metal gates may need rust treatment and repainting. Check for loose panels, wobbly posts, or broken hinges—tightening or replacing them ensures a solid and well-maintained appearance.
6. Hide Unsightly Bins
Wheelie bins are a necessity, but they can ruin the look of your front garden. Use wooden screens, bin storage units, or even a simple trellis with climbing plants to keep them out of sight.
If space allows, store them around the side of the house or in a garage to keep your entrance looking neat and uncluttered.
7. Improve Outdoor Lighting
Good lighting enhances both security and ambiance, making a home feel safer, more inviting and reduce the stress of selling. Stylish wall lights or motion-sensor lighting by the entrance and driveway can highlight the property’s best features while also reassuring buyers that safety has been considered—helping it stand out in the market.
Motion-sensor lights can be a practical addition, especially for pathways and driveways, deterring intruders while making it easier to navigate at night.
8. Ensure Roof & Gutters Are in Good Condition
A neglected roof or overflowing gutters can signal costly issues to buyers and potentially leave your home unsellable. Check for missing, cracked, or loose roof tiles and replace them promptly. Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent water damage and damp issues.
If gutters look worn, consider repainting or replacing them to maintain a fresh, well-kept exterior.
Damp is always an issue so spot any signs of moisture or staining, it’s vital to identify the specific problem before it worsens.
9. Freshen Up Exterior Walls
Peeling paint or discoloured walls can make a home look tired. A fresh coat of exterior paint instantly revitalises the façade, while jet washing brickwork removes dirt, moss, and stains.
Check for damaged pointing between bricks—repointing worn areas improves both appearance and structural integrity. Even small touch-ups can make a big difference in kerb appeal.
10. Declutter & Clean the Street View
The area directly outside your home affects first impressions just as much as the property itself. Sweep the pavement, pick up any litter, and remove weeds from cracks in the pavement.
If you have overgrown trees or shrubs encroaching onto the walkway, trim them back for a neat and well-maintained look. A clean and tidy street view creates a positive first impression before anyone even steps inside.
11. Add Small Decorative Touches
Simple details can make your entrance feel more inviting. A stylish welcome mat, decorative potted plants, or a seasonal wreath on the door adds warmth and personality. Consider upgrading your house numbers or door knocker for a refined finishing touch.
These small, inexpensive updates help make your home look well-loved and more appealing to visitors and buyers alike.
Does Kerb Appeal Add Value?
Yes—kerb appeal plays a key role in a property’s desirability and can directly impact its selling price. Studies suggest buyers decide within seconds if a home is appealing, and well-maintained exteriors can increase perceived value. Simple fixes, like a fresh coat of paint, a tidy garden, and clean windows, can make your property stand out, attracting more interest and potentially higher offers.
A study by the National Association of Realtors found that improving curb appeal can increase property value by up to 10%, particularly in competitive housing markets.