Published: July 01, 2025

Smart Summer Curb Appeal Tips to Sell Your Home

When you’re preparing to sell your home, the first impression it makes can set the tone for everything that follows. That impression starts before a potential buyer even steps inside. In the summer, when buyers are more active and homes look their best in natural light, curb appeal becomes a powerful tool. Fortunately, you don’t need a full-scale renovation to make your home stand out. A few smart updates and a little attention to detail can dramatically improve your home’s exterior and encourage more showings and offers. Below are seven curb appeal improvements that are perfect for summer and designed to help your home look more polished, welcoming, and ready to sell.

1. Refresh the Entryway for a Strong Start

The front door and porch are focal points for visitors. Giving them a quick makeover can instantly boost your home’s charm and draw buyers in.

Entry Updates That Make a Difference:

• Paint the front door in a bold yet tasteful color, like black, red, or teal. 
• Swap out old door hardware with sleek, modern alternatives. 
• Install updated porch lighting for style and visibility. 
• Place a seasonal welcome mat and potted plants near the entrance. 
• Make sure house numbers are visible and match your home’s style.

Together, these enhancements create a more inviting and put-together look for your front entrance.

2. Wash Exterior Surfaces for a Fresh Look

Over time, the outside of your home can collect dirt, algae, and discoloration. A deep exterior cleaning is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to brighten up your property.

Surfaces to Target With a Pressure Wash:

• Siding and brick 
• Walkways and concrete paths 
• Garage doors 
• Decks, porches, and stairs 
• Patio furniture and fencing

You can either rent a pressure washer or bring in a professional to give your exterior a clean, renewed appearance.

3. Maximize the Impact of Your Landscaping

In the summer, well-maintained greenery can be a major asset when selling your home. A neat, colorful yard can create a positive first impression that extends throughout the property.

Easy Landscaping Wins for Summer Curb Appeal:

• Keep the lawn cut and edges clean. 
• Remove weeds and dead plants from garden beds. 
• Trim back overgrown trees and shrubs. 
• Add fresh mulch to plant beds for contrast and moisture retention. 
• Use flower pots or baskets for added color near walkways and porches.

Even basic landscaping efforts can dramatically improve the visual appeal of your home.

4. Fix Small Details That Buyers Notice

It’s easy to overlook small flaws when you’ve lived in a home for years, but buyers notice everything. Repairing or replacing small exterior features can go a long way toward presenting your home as move-in ready.

Small Upgrades Worth Doing:

• Patch cracks in sidewalks or driveways 
• Repaint faded trim or railings 
• Secure loose handrails or porch boards 
• Replace missing or crooked fence panels 
• Update your mailbox and clean it up

These details may seem minor, but they help reassure buyers that your home is well cared for.

5. Add Outdoor Lighting for Evening Appeal

A well-lit exterior enhances both safety and beauty. Thoughtfully placed lighting also allows your home to look just as attractive at dusk as it does during the day, especially important for buyers driving by after work.

Ways to Light Your Exterior:

• Use solar stake lights along walkways 
• Add sconces or lanterns by the front door 
• Highlight landscaping or architectural features with spotlights 
• Install motion-activated lights near side entrances or garages

Lighting makes your home feel warm, safe, and well-designed—traits every buyer appreciates.

6. Show off Outdoor Living Spaces

Patios, decks, and porches are key selling points in warmer months. Stage them the way you would an indoor living room—clean, functional, and ready for enjoyment.

Outdoor Staging Tips:

• Clean or replace patio furniture 
• Arrange seating to encourage relaxation or conversation 
• Add throw pillows or outdoor rugs in neutral tones 
• Include potted plants for life and color 
• Remove clutter and personal items before showings 

Helping buyers picture themselves using the space adds emotional value and increases interest.

7. Keep Everything Neat and Tidy

A clean, uncluttered yard is essential. Buyers want to focus on the home, not distractions like tools, toys, or trash bins.

Decluttering Checklist:

• Store gardening tools and hoses out of sight 
• Put away outdoor toys and bikes 
• Keep bins and recycling containers tucked away 
• Remove any broken furniture or empty planters 
• Sweep driveways, walkways, and porches regularly

A tidy exterior sets the tone for what’s inside and helps buyers see the potential.

Curb appeal isn’t just about making your home look nice—it’s about helping buyers feel excited and confident about what’s inside. In a busy summer market, taking the time to improve your exterior can make all the difference in how quickly your home sells—and at what price. You don’t need a big budget or a contractor to create a beautiful first impression. With the right combination of cleaning, organizing, and small upgrades, your home can stand out from the competition and capture buyer interest from the very first glance.

For the best storage solutions during the selling process, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Seattle or call (206) 347-8201 today!