First impressions matter—especially in real estate. Whether you're preparing to sell your home or simply want to refresh its exterior, curb appeal plays a critical role in how your property is perceived. The good news? You don't need a full-scale renovation to make your home shine. With the right approach, you can boost your home's curb appeal in just one weekend.
This guide outlines practical, affordable upgrades that deliver visible results fast. If you're in a competitive market like Bend, Oregon, these quick wins can help your home stand out to buyers and improve its overall value.
Why Curb Appeal Matters in Real Estate
Curb appeal isn't just about looks—it's about creating a sense of care and quality. When a home’s exterior is well-maintained, it sets a positive tone for everything inside. Buyers tend to form opinions within seconds of arriving at a property. If the exterior lacks polish, they may assume the interior is neglected, too.
Boosting curb appeal is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase buyer interest and shorten time on market.
Start With a Clean Slate
Before adding anything new, spend time removing what’s outdated, broken, or simply dirty. A deep clean can go a long way toward improving the look of your home’s exterior.
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Power wash the siding, front porch, and driveway
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Clear away cobwebs, dead leaves, and debris from gutters and corners
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Wash windows, both inside and out, to let in more natural light
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Clean or replace old doormats
This step sets the foundation for every other upgrade and instantly makes your home look fresher.
Update Your Landscaping
A well-maintained yard signals pride of ownership. And while full landscaping projects can take weeks, some of the most noticeable changes can be made in a single afternoon.
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Trim overgrown bushes and tree limbs
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Mow the lawn and edge the borders for a crisp finish
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Add fresh mulch to flower beds for a clean, uniform look
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Plant colorful annuals in containers or entryway planters for instant charm
You don’t need to overhaul the entire yard—just focus on the front area that’s visible from the street.
Refresh the Front Door
Your front door is a focal point. A simple update here can completely change the way your home is perceived.
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Repaint the door with a bold but classic color like deep navy, forest green, or rich red
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Replace dated hardware with modern, high-quality fixtures
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Add a decorative wreath or seasonal accent for a welcoming touch
This upgrade is fast, affordable, and delivers a strong visual impact.
Improve Exterior Lighting
Exterior lighting not only enhances security—it adds ambiance and highlights your home’s best features at night.
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Replace outdated fixtures with sleek, energy-efficient models
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Use solar-powered path lights to illuminate walkways
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Add motion-sensor lighting near the garage or driveway
Even after the sun sets, your home continues to make a strong impression.
Fix What’s Broken
Small repairs can have a big influence on how potential buyers view your home’s condition. This is your chance to address anything that may raise a red flag.
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Straighten leaning fence posts or loose gate hinges
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Replace cracked driveway pavers or repair concrete chips
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Touch up paint on trim, shutters, or railings
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Tighten house numbers or replace them with a more modern style
When buyers see attention to detail outside, they’re more likely to expect—and find—the same care inside.
Create a Comfortable Entryway
Staging isn’t just for interiors. A welcoming outdoor entry adds emotional appeal and creates a sense of home before anyone even steps inside.
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Add a small bench, porch chair, or bistro table if space allows
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Incorporate outdoor cushions or pillows in coordinating colors
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Use potted plants or lanterns to frame the entrance
These personal touches not only look great, they help buyers imagine themselves living there.
Don’t Overlook the Garage and Driveway
In many homes, the garage takes up a significant portion of the front exterior. A tidy, updated garage door can dramatically improve curb appeal.
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Wash or repaint the garage door to remove dirt and fading
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Upgrade the hardware if it’s outdated or rusty
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Keep trash bins out of sight and away from the driveway
Even small updates here make a big difference when someone pulls up for a showing.
Final Touches That Tie It All Together
Once the major updates are complete, finish with details that show care and cohesion.
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Polish exterior metal fixtures like doorbells or mailboxes
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Add a new welcome mat that complements the color scheme
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Use symmetrical accents, like paired planters or lighting, to create visual balance
These finishing steps reinforce the idea that the home is move-in ready—an attractive message for any potential buyer.
Reach Out to Amanda Johnson
Whether you're preparing to list your home or simply want to boost its appearance, Amanda Johnson can help you make the right improvements for maximum impact. With expert knowledge of Bend’s real estate market, Amanda understands what buyers are looking for and which updates deliver the greatest return.
From advising on quick upgrades to helping you stage your home for sale, Amanda offers practical guidance every step of the way. Her goal is to help sellers showcase their homes at their very best—without unnecessary stress or overspending.
Reach out to
Amanda Johnson today to start your home-selling journey with confidence and style.
