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When you put your home on the market, your real estate agent likely gave you a checklist of things to do to prepare your property. If you improve curb appeal, you’ll attract more potential buyers. Making improvements doesn’t have to be costly. Here are a few inexpensive ways to help your home make a good impression.

Add Mulch to Flower Beds

Mulch is attractive and good for your plants. It slows the growth of weeds and helps the soil retain moisture. Use mulch to beautify garden beds and apply it around trees to boost curb appeal. Your landscaping will look neat and well-cared-for and you’ll spend less time maintaining the flower beds.

The cost of this improvement depends on your property and how much mulch you’ll need. You can find inexpensive wood mulch at your local hardware store for $3 – $6 per bag.

Paint the Front Door to Improve Curb Appeal

The front entrance is one of the first things a buyer will notice. If your door is faded or worn, give it a boost with a fresh coat of paint. Choose a color that is bold and stands out while complementing the color of your home.

You can paint the door in just a single afternoon. A quart of quality exterior paint will cost around $20. For the best coverage, start with a coat of primer, which costs around $8 to $10 for a quart.

Install Solar Lights

Illuminate your front walkway with solar-powered lights that turn on at dusk. If an interested buyer drives by after dark, they’ll see a well-lit and welcoming home. Pathway lights add safety and security and you can purchase a pack of six lights for around $15. You might also install solar lights to line the driveway or to brighten the front stairs.

Improve the Mailbox for Better Curb Appeal

If your mailbox is by the road, potential buyers will see it when they visit your home. Install a new mailbox or paint the current one. You can also spend time planting flowers around the post.

If you choose to buy a brand new mailbox, you can get an inexpensive one for around $20. For flowers, annuals are inexpensive and a quick and easy way to add color around the mailbox post. Expect to spend another $10 – $15 if you choose to add flowers.

Update the House Numbers

Fading, rusting, or aging house numbers can date your property. Fortunately, they’re inexpensive and easy to replace. Shop online or at your local hardware store for new, modern numbers. You’ll find a wide variety of styles and colors for between $2 – $8 per piece.

Install bright silver numbers near the front entry or bold, larger pieces above the garage door. You’ll have the added bonus of helping friends and potential buyers find your house more easily.

Decorate the Front Porch with Flowers

Add color to the front porch with planters. Place plants in clay pots on the stairs, install window boxes, or use deck planters for a container garden. If you’re on a budget, choose inexpensive annually blooming flowers and plain clay or plastic pots. At a garden center or home improvement store, you can buy everything you need for less than $50.

Properly Inspected Home Inspection Services offers home inspection services, including pre-listing inspections, to the Tampa Bay area. If you’re selling a home, contact us to schedule an appointment.