Thinking about upgrades that improve your home’s curb appeal?

Every homeowner wants their property to turn heads. But…

The problem is most people focus only on interior projects. They forget about the outside of their home. This is a huge error.

The exterior is literally the first thing people see when they look at your home. Whether it be neighbors walking by or potential buyers, they see the outside first.

And studies prove it.

The 2024 Cost vs. Value Report showed that 9 of the top 10 projects with the highest ROI were exterior renovations. Exterior home improvements provide you with the biggest return.

Fortunately, some exterior upgrades are affordable.

There are also plenty of options that won’t break the bank and are easier than renovating your kitchen.

What you’ll learn:

• Why Exterior Upgrades Are More Important Than Ever
• Highest Impact Exterior Improvements That Are Worthwhile
• CCTV Installation That Gets Noticed
• Outdoor Lighting Improvements That’ll Wow
• Entry Point Attention
• Care For The Details With Landscaping
• Wrap Up

Why Exterior Upgrades Are More Important Than Ever

Did you know that when someone drives by a house, they form an opinion in under five seconds?

If the exterior of your home looks tired and worn down, people assume you aren’t taking care of your house. It may give off that “budget renovations” vibe.

On the flip side, if your house looks pristine from the street, they’ll assume it’s well taken care of.

Smart homeowners know this:

The exterior of your home can improve your day-to-day life as well as help you get more money when selling. There is no better win-win than that!

REALTORS know curb appeal is important too. National Association of REALTORS research revealed that 97% of REALTORS said curb appeal entices buyers. Can you get a number any higher than that?

With that being said, where should you spend your money?

Highest Impact Exterior Improvements That Are Worthwhile

Believe it or not, not all exterior improvements are created equal.

Some improvements provide you with a higher return on investment when it’s time to sell.

Let’s take a look at the three upgrades that gave homeowners the best bang for their buck.

• Garage door replacement– Return On Investment of 194%
• Steel entry door replacement– ROI of 188%
• Manufactured stone veneer – ROI of 153%

Don’t forget about CCTV installation.

Obviously, CCTV installation improves the security of your property but certain improvements also add curb appeal. Check out our guide on the security camera installation price to help you budget. Keep in mind, prices can vary depending on the system you choose.

CCTV Installation That Gets Noticed

CCTV installation has come a long way in recent years.

Securitycameras these days are sleek and blend into your exterior instead of sticking out like a sore thumb.

Not only will professional CCTV installation help keep you and your family safe, but they also offer curb appeal.

Here’s why:

• Security cameras are a deterrent for criminals.
• Research shows that properties without CCTV are far more likely to be burgled. Don’t just take our word for it, the professionals say it too:
• uk states that “crime prevention cameras are proven to reduce crime”
• If you’re thinking of forgoing CCTV installation because you ‘don’t live in a high crime area,’ think about this…
• Burglars aren’t exactly going to publicize the areas they target. They look for properties they believe won’t be caught.
• Installing security cameras let’s potential thieves know you mean business.

Benefits of CCTV installation include:

• Crime deterrent
• Helps catch criminals if a crime does happen
• May lower home insurance costs
• Increase curb appeal with modern technology
• Can connect to smart home features

CCTV installation is no longer just a practicality. Today, CCTV adds value to your home in more ways than one.

Outdoor Lighting Improvements That’ll Wow

You would be surprised at what some proper lighting can do.

Not only will lighting improve your home’s security, but it also helps with visibility and looks amazing at night.

What you should focus on:

• Pathway lighting
• Accent lighting
• Security floodlights
• Smart light controls

Motion sensor lights go hand in hand with CCTV installation.

When someone approaches your home, the lights turn on capturing clear footage of any would-be burglars.

Technology has also improved when it comes to lighting your home’s exterior. LED lights are more affordable than ever and use a fraction of the energy traditional bulbs do.

Entry Point Attention

When it comes to your home’s exterior, you should pay special attention to entryways.

A nice pop of colour on your front door will grab someone’s attention. When the front door stands out, it creates interest and makes people wonder what’s inside.

Here are a few other things you should consider:

• Door hardware – update your handles and knockers to a modern finish
• House numbers – ensure they’re up-to-date and fit your home’s style
• Doormat & welcome mat – never underestimate the power of a greeting mat
• Paint or replace the trim around windows and doors and ensure they’re cleaned regularly.

Costing you next to nothing, these small details can make a big difference.

Care For The Details With Landscaping

You can have all the expensive improvements done and they’ll go to waste if your landscaping isn’t taken care of.

Trimmed lawns and gardens make your home look amazing. Weeds and overgrown trees/software are a sign of neglect. Not only will it look bad, but people assume the homeowner doesn’t take care of their property.

Here are some quick landscaping tips:

• Add fresh mulch to garden beds
• Trim hedges and bushes
• Pop some color with seasonal flowers
• Edge your lawn

Take into consideration that landscaping scored in the top 5 for recouping costs.

Wrap Up

Like with most home improvements, it’s best if you package exterior upgrades together.

Pair CCTV installation with some new lighting. That new front door will look better if you give your home a fresh coat of paint and tidy up the garden.

Our advice to you?

Prioritize what you feel needs the most attention. Replace your rundown garage door before giving your home a fresh coat of paint.

Don’t feel you have to upgrade your entire home in one go. By spacing out your projects, you will allow your bank account time to recover.

Final Thoughts

Exterior improvements are some of the best investments you can make.

Not only will they better your everyday life, but they also provide great returns when it comes time to sell your house. What else can you spend money on that gives you three benefits?

Remember, don’t neglect the outside of your home.

All these exterior improvements will make your home stand out from the rest. Now go show off that new curb appeal!

Last modified: February 3, 2026