25 Budget-Friendly Home Upgrades That Will Wow Your Neighbors

Update Your House Numbers

This is such a simple fix that delivers a big impact. Update your house numbers to something a bit more modern, like these Etsy House Numbers, and you'll feel an instant refresh to your exterior.

Give Some Landscaping Love

You can start small here, add a tree, a shrub, some grasses, but adding greenery that matures over time will enhancing your yard’s overall aesthetic and the value of your home. Take cues from your lifestyle too. Sod might be the ideal choice for running, playing, and family fun. Live in a dry climate? Opt for drought-tolerant plants and decorative rocks to create a low-maintenance, water-efficient landscape.

Paint Your Door

A fresh coat of bold or classic color on your front door can instantly enhance its curb appeal, and surprise your neighbors in a good way.

Add Outdoor String Lights

These are pretty affordable and so charming in trees and on fences, creating a cozy vibe for your outdoor space.

Install Window Boxes

This has been on my home bucket list since traveling around Charleston, S.C. I love a good flower box display, whether it's colorful perennials or varying shades of greenery. Check out these affordable Wayfair Planter Boxes.

Replace or Paint Your Mailbox

A rusty old mailbox is not giving guests the best first impression. A sleek new mailbox, like this West Elm Mailbox, or a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference.

Update Light Fixtures

Swap out dated porch lights and install solar pathway lights for a fresh look and more inviting space.

Install Shutters

There's something so classic and European about shutters. Affordable, decorative ones can add charm and dimension to your windows.

Pressure Wash Your Exterior

Have you spotted those IG videos of people pressure washing their homes? So mesmerizing! Wash off those cobwebs and layers of grime with an Electric Pressure Washer. A clean driveway, siding, or patio can make your home look like new.

Add a Fire Pit

Build a simple and stylish fire pit with pavers or bricks or shop for one like this modern wood-burning fire pit from All Modern or this option from Solo Stove for a cozy gathering spot.

Build a Garden Path

Use gravel, stepping stones, or wood chips to create an elegant walkway to your home.

Hang A Wreath

It doesn't need to be December for you to hang a natural wreath on your door. A seasonal or year-round wreath, like this one from Studio McGee, adds warmth to your home’s entryway.

DIY Raised Garden Beds

Build a raised garden bed for under $50 with our guide or shop for these lovely cedar ones on Eartheasy. Come spring you'll have plenty of space to plant vegetables and herbs and flowers.

Add A Bird Bath

A bird bath, like this Wayfair Pedestal Birdbath from Kelly Clarkson Home, is a great way to support your local wildlife and pretty up your front yard.

Paint or Stain Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture gets weathered throughout the year if not protected. Before spring comes, spruce up your outdoor furniture with paint, or a sand and wood stain to give your front yard a polished look.

Paint or Stain Your Fence

Upgrade Your Door Hardware

Is your door handle looking a bit dated or worn? Replace old doorknobs, locks, or handles with more stylish and modern options, like this Entry Door Handle.

Add Planters To Your Porch

Planters welcome your guests and frame your porch in an inviting way. Find plants you love and make a great first impression with beautiful planters.

Paint or Tile Your Stair Risers

Paint your stair risers in a fun contrasting or complementary color to your home, or if you want to invest a little more time and money add a decorative tile. I did this with a tile inspired by my trip to Portugal and get compliments all the time! You can also find peel-and-stick floor tile for outside porches.

Add Front Porch Seating

Classic Adirondacks, modern rocking chairs like these Wayfair Rocking Chairs, and swing chairs can make your yard more inviting and useful. I had a total mom win when I saw my daughter reading outside in our new Adirondack chairs.

Add a Trellis

This doesn't have to be major, but a small trellis around your door can make a big impact come spring when the flowers bloom.

Wash Your Windows

This is a low-cost way to make your home literally shine.

Hide Trash Bins

Hide any eyesores like trash bins and HVAC units with a privacy screen with a planter for flowers and vines.

Add New Mulch

Clear any weeds and refresh your mulch to instantly tidy up garden beds.

Decorate For the Seasons

Making your entryway festive for the seasons can bring joy and cheer to your neighborhood all year long. This Etsy Doormat is so cute for Valentine's Day!