In today's cooling housing market, first impressions matter more than ever, especially in cities like Denver, where home sales are slowing. Nearly one in three homes listed in Denver recently experienced a price reduction. Properties in the region are now taking an average of 45 days to sell.
As competition grows, small exterior design updates, like fresh landscaping or new fixtures, can boost curb appeal and attract buyers faster. Upgraded windows, for instance, enhance appearance and improve energy efficiency, a key selling point in Colorado's changing climate. For this reason, many sellers are turning to trusted Denver window companies to refresh their home's exterior.
In this article, we'll explore practical and impactful exterior upgrades that can help your home stand out and sell faster in a slower market.
Refresh the Front Entrance for Instant Charm
The front entrance is your home's handshake, dictating a buyer's first impression. A simple refresh here can deliver immediate charm. Consider painting or replacing the front door with a contrasting color; this draws attention and makes the entryway memorable. Updating hardware, doorknobs, knockers, and house numbers also elevates the look, adding sophistication.
Strategic lighting around the doorway enhances safety and creates a warm welcome, especially for evening viewings. Thoughtfully placed planters with seasonal blooms or greenery beautifully frame the entrance, softening lines and contributing to an inviting atmosphere.
These small investments yield outsized returns, making the home appear well-cared for. A new NAR report highlights the value of curb appeal improvements. It shows that a new steel front door offers an estimated 100% return on investment. A fiberglass door yields about 80%, proving these simple upgrades can help move homes off the market faster.
Improve Landscaping for a Welcoming First Look
Landscaping plays a vital role in shaping a home's curb appeal and can significantly influence a buyer's first impression. Overgrown shrubs or patchy lawns may signal neglect, while neat greenery suggests care and readiness.
Simple steps, like trimming bushes, edging walkways, or spreading fresh mulch, can refresh a yard without major expense. Adding colorful container plants or hanging flower baskets introduces vibrancy and charm to the entryway.
While full-scale professional landscaping can boost appeal, it comes with a hefty price tag, averaging between $8,000 and $15,000, according to Fixr. Fortunately, many improvements are DIY-friendly. A rake, a lawn mower, and a few repotted flowers can transform a tired yard. Even a layer of new mulch can go a long way in reviving the overall look.
These small, affordable updates help convey a well-maintained, move-in-ready home, exactly what today's buyers want in a cooling market.
Install Windows That Sell
Windows have a major impact on a home's overall appeal and energy performance. Old or inefficient windows can make a property feel dated, no matter how well-maintained the rest of it is. Replacing them with modern, efficient designs, like black-trimmed frames or double-pane glass, can brighten interiors and reduce energy costs.
Natural light, better insulation, and reduced maintenance are just a few of the added benefits that appeal to today's buyers. These upgrades can also recoup a significant portion of their cost at resale, making them a smart choice in a slower market.
According to Wallaby Windows, understanding local architectural trends and climate conditions is key when considering upgrades. Tailored solutions that reflect regional needs can help a home stand out in a slower market while enhancing both efficiency and curb appeal.
Use Color Strategically
Color plays a subtle yet powerful role in shaping first impressions. Neutral tones on a home's exterior create a clean, welcoming appearance that appeals to the widest range of buyers. They suggest move-in readiness and give potential buyers room to imagine their style. Strategic pops of color, like a bold front door or contrasting shutters, can add charm and personality without overwhelming the design.
Refreshing faded siding or repainting exterior surfaces enhances curb appeal and reinforces the impression of a well-maintained home. Even simple updates like pressure washing can brighten the overall look and boost buyer confidence.
According to a Zillow report, painting remains one of the most common home improvements among sellers. While 46% of those who made any upgrades chose to paint the interior, 28% also invested in exterior painting. These affordable efforts often deliver high visual impact, helping homes stand out and sell faster in a competitive market.
Add Architectural Details That Matter
Architectural details, even small ones, can greatly enhance a home's curb appeal and help it stand out. Elements like window boxes brimming with flowers add instant charm, while updated shutters provide structure and visual balance. Trim or molding around doors and windows introduces subtle elegance, catching the eye without overpowering the facade.
Beyond doors and windows, decorative gable vents, pergolas, porch railings, or even corbels under eaves introduce character and style. Adding stone veneer to the foundation or columns can also create a more finished, upscale look. These accents work together to craft a cohesive visual narrative, one that resonates emotionally with buyers.
In a slower market, these carefully selected upgrades signal that the home is thoughtfully cared for, inviting stronger interest and faster offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make the exterior of my house look more expensive?
To make your home's exterior look more expensive, focus on clean lines, quality finishes, and symmetry. Upgrade lighting, repaint with neutral tones, add stylish house numbers, and invest in landscaping. Details like a bold front door, modern fixtures, and well-placed greenery create a polished, upscale look that enhances curb appeal.
Which architectural style is known for its highly decorative exterior?
The Victorian architectural style is known for its highly decorative exterior. Characterized by ornate trim, textured wall surfaces, asymmetrical facades, and vibrant colors, Victorian homes showcase intricate details like turrets and patterned shingles. These features create a visually rich and historically charming curb appeal that stands out distinctly.
What is exterior staging, and why is it important?
Exterior staging is the process of enhancing a home's outdoor appearance to boost its curb appeal and attract potential buyers. It includes landscaping, lighting, paint touch-ups, and decor. A well-staged exterior creates a strong first impression, signals proper maintenance, and can significantly influence a home's perceived value and marketability.
In a cooling market, thoughtful exterior upgrades can be the key to standing out. From refreshed landscaping to modern windows and charming architectural details, small changes make a big impact. With the right tweaks, sellers can boost curb appeal, attract more buyers, and move their homes off the market faster.
