7 Affordable Exterior Upgrades That Make a Big Impact
By: Alexis B.
Big change doesn’t need a big budget. When it comes to curb appeal, it’s really the little things that tend to matter most. With a few affordable exterior upgrades, you can totally change the look of your home (and impress your neighbors in the process).
Whether you’re refreshing your forever home or house flipping, these seven budget-friendly upgrades prove that style doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
1. Refresh Your Front Door Color
A bold front door is like a firm handshake – it makes a great first impression. With just a gallon of paint, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost your curb appeal.
For modern homes, try charcoal or deep navy. Or if you prefer something more cheerful, opt for muted yellow or a rich, earthy red. No matter your preference, always test your paint in both sun and shade before going all in – paint colors can look drastically different depending on the time of day. The last thing you want is for your gorgeous terracotta shade to look more “traffic cone” at sunset.
2. Swap Out Your House Numbers
Think of accents like house numbers as jewelry for your home. These little details can make a huge difference to your home’s appearance, just like how the wrong necklace can clash with your cutest outfit, while the right one will make it look stylish and complete.
For example, sleek matte black numbers can instantly modernize a traditional exterior, while brushed brass looks polished and timeless on darker siding. You can even find some great options for under $50!
Just make sure any numbers you choose are easy to read from the street. That font might look cute up close, but it looks confusing to your pizza delivery driver at a distance.
3. Let Lighting Shine On Your Exterior Upgrades
Good lighting shouldn’t just let you see where you step at night; it should also highlight your home’s best features. With the right lighting ideas, you can give your home a warm, welcoming glow that’ll make you fall in love with it all over again.
Replace outdated or builder-grade light fixtures with something more stylish for a simple upgrade that can change everything. The fixtures you choose should match your home’s personality, like aged copper lanterns for a coastal cottage. Don’t forget to swap in warm-toned bulbs so your house glows and doesn’t glare.
4. Add Planters and Window Boxes
If you want to add charm, greenery is your best friend. Planters and window boxes can add color, life, and texture to your exterior without needing a landscaper. You can even DIY some with materials from your local hardware store if you want a more custom look!
Look for low-maintenance plants like boxwood, ferns, or trailing ivy. Want seasonal pops of color? Rotate in petunias or pansies, depending on the time of year. Plants make everything look more intentional and a little more alive.
5. Use Hardware to Make a Statement
If your door handle is scratched, your mailbox is bent, and your house still has the same door knocker it came with in 1989, it’s time for a refresh. Just like house numbers, your hardware is one of those affordable exterior upgrades that doesn’t feel like a big change until you realize how much better everything looks.
Go for a unified finish, whether that’s brushed nickel, matte black, aged brass – whatever fits your vibe. And while you’re at it, consider adding a modern doorbell or a classic knocker that feels just a bit more “design-forward” than default.
6. Paint Your Garage Door
The garage door is often the single largest surface on the front of your home. So why do so many of us leave it out of the makeover plans? A fresh coat of paint or stain can make your garage look custom, even if it’s not.
Go bold with a contrasting color to make a statement, or blend it in with the siding for a more subtle, modern look. Either way, you’re turning something usually “blah” into something beautiful.
7. Frame Your Entryway
You don’t need an entire porch remodel to upgrade your entry. A little bit of trim around the door, a new outdoor rug, or some styled seating can go a long way in making your front door feel like the star of the show.
We love seeing clients get creative here. You can try swapping in seasonal wreaths, adding a ceramic stool or woven basket, or even hanging some art rated for outdoor use. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s personality. Make your home look like it’s truly yours.
Remember: Think Like a Designer With Affordable Exterior Upgrades
You don’t need to approach renovations like a demolition crew and start from scratch. Look at it like a designer – what works, and what doesn’t? What little swaps could help everything feel more cohesive? A designer’s mindset is all about seeing potential in what’s already there.
Back up from your exterior and take a good, long look at your home. What stands out, either for good or bad? Does your home already have symmetry in some areas? These little details are what you need to focus on when making small upgrades. Embrace what makes your home unique and build around your home’s character.
Final Thoughts: Affordable Exterior Upgrades Make a Difference
The truth is, affordable exterior upgrades can absolutely transform the way your home looks and feels. A little paint here, a new fixture there, and suddenly you’re looking at your house like it belongs on the front of a magazine.
If you need a little help getting started, we’re ready when you are. Our professional designers can create a virtual rendering of your home, so you can see exactly how these little upgrades can make a big difference. Get started today to see your dream home come to life.
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