You don’t need a full exterior renovation to improve your home’s curb appeal, take it from me. In fact, some of the most effective upgrades I've done over the years are small, affordable efforts that highlight my home's original charm. And, let's be real, "no demo needed" is like a love language to many.
From power washing your outdoor living spaces to painting your front door, these simple projects cost less than you might expect and can instantly boost your home’s appearance. Whether you’re prepping to appeal to potential buyers or just want to clean things up for your neighbors, here are some smart, low-cost ways to update your home’s exterior.
Refresh the Entryway with New Lighting Fixtures, Door Hardware, and Address Numbers
"There are countless ways to refresh your home’s exterior without breaking the bank, but I always recommend starting with your home’s first impression: the entrance," says Jackie Mosher, co-founder of Dzinly.
"Swapping out old door hardware, adding a fresh light fixture, and laying down a clean, stylish doormat can instantly elevate the space. But if you really want the most bang for your buck? Paint your front door in a bold, welcoming color. These changes combined can typically be done for under $300 and make a major impact."
Oh, the way that a fresh, bold front door paint color can make your entire exterior feel new again. And, everyone on the street will notice, too.
Mosher also points out how something as small as your address numbers can make a difference: "Don’t overlook the power of updated address numbers. Swapping out basic digits for something with a different font, material, or finish can make your home feel more personalized and modern. When in doubt, go larger—this quick and easy upgrade can usually be done for under $100 and gives your house an instant style boost."
Power Wash Your Home
You might not realize just how much dirt has built up on your home’s siding and window frames over the years. A good cleaning can reveal a much brighter, fresher surface underneath.
"One of my favorite free tips is to power wash your home," Mosher says. "You’d be amazed at what a difference it makes—dirt, mildew, and years of grime disappear, leaving everything looking brighter and more cared for."
It doesn’t stop there. Exterior updates often inspire fresh landscaping: "Reshaping garden beds, adding mulch, or planting low-maintenance greenery around the foundation helps visually anchor the home and give it a polished, finished look. These two upgrades require just a little elbow grease but offer a huge return."
Small Changes with Big Payoff
- Consider your exterior paint colors and choose a new swatch of color for your front door
- Swap outdated elements for modern fixtures
- Put potted plants or window boxes near your entryway
- Upgrade your house numbers to something stylish and easy to read
- Power wash siding, walkways, and the driveway
- Clean up overgrown landscaping with new mulch and fresh edges
Add Charming Details Like Shutter Dogs and Hinges
Adding small architectural features can be a subtle way to add a finishing touch.
"Adding charming architectural details like shutter dogs and decorative hinges is another fantastic way to boost curb appeal," says Mosher. "While these can add up, especially if you have many windows, mid-range options typically run about $30 per pair and can really enhance the character of your home."
These exterior upgrades work especially well for homes with traditional or cottage-style designs, but can also help add visual appeal to plainer exteriors. Choose finishes and shapes that complement your siding and trim for a look that feels intentional.
Modernize Gable Vents for a Refined Look
If your home has visible gable vents, updating them can make more of a difference than you might think.
"Swapping out oversized, ornamental gable vents for sleek, streamlined alternatives can instantly update your home’s exterior and add a touch of sophistication," Mosher explains. "If you're keeping the same size, this change can be relatively affordable—modern vent designs typically range from $50 to $200."
She adds that even if you’re going for a more dramatic transformation, the investment in these exterior design elements may be worth it: "If you're resizing the opening and modifying the cladding, the investment is higher (up to $2,000), but the visual payoff is significant and well worth it for a more contemporary, polished appearance."
FAQ
What’s the most budget-friendly update with the biggest impact?
Painting your front door is one of the least expensive changes you can make, and it’s often the most noticeable. You'll only need a quart of paint to get the job done. We also just updated our entryway with a new light fixture for $40. Add in some updated house numbers, and you can transform your entryway for less than $100 or $150, depending on the fixtures that appeal to you.
Can I power wash my house myself, or should I hire someone?
If you already have a power washer, it’s easy to do on your own. Renting one typically costs $30 to $100. Just follow safety instructions and test a small area first to avoid damage. If you're not comfortable using one, hiring someone for a quick clean can still be a great way to clean up your home for the season.
