How Do You Maintain Curb Appeal?

First impressions matter—and your home’s exterior is the first thing people notice. Whether you're selling, renovating, or simply want to stand out in your neighborhood, maintaining curb appeal is essential. In fact, studies show that homes with strong curb appeal can sell for up to 7% more than similar homes with less attractive exteriors (Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics).

In this 2025 guide, we'll explore actionable, affordable, and trendy ways to keep your home’s curb appeal fresh all year long.

Why Curb Appeal Matters

Maintaining curb appeal isn’t just about aesthetics—it impacts home value, safety, and your daily pride of ownership. A well-kept exterior can also:

• Increase resale value
  
  

• Attract more buyers and online views
  
  

• Reduce long-term maintenance costs
  
  

Explore our Home Sellers Guide to see how exterior improvements support profitable sales.

Year-Round Curb Appeal Maintenance Tips

1. Keep Landscaping Neat and Seasonal

Trim overgrown hedges, edge the lawn, and clear debris. Refresh mulch and seasonal plants. Native and drought-tolerant plants are a 2025 landscaping trend, endorsed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

2. Maintain Exterior Surfaces

Power-wash siding, repaint trim, and clean gutters regularly. A clean exterior is more attractive and preserves your home’s materials.

3. Focus on Entryway Enhancements

Paint your front door, upgrade the doormat, and add potted plants or seasonal wreaths. Smart doorbells and stylish house numbers are trending features that boost appeal.

4. Upgrade Lighting for Ambience and Security

Install solar pathway lights, update porch fixtures, and use motion-sensor lighting to improve safety and nighttime aesthetics.

5. Maintain Curbing and Edging

Well-defined curbing not only organizes your yard but enhances curb appeal. Replace cracked or discolored sections and consider decorative concrete edging. Learn more about its benefits in our guide on the reasons for curbing.

Stay on Top of Seasonal Tasks

Creating a maintenance checklist for each season keeps your curb appeal consistent:

• Spring: Refresh landscaping, touch up paint, plant flowers
  
  

• Summer: Watering, weeding, and repairing outdoor furniture
  
  

• Fall: Leaf removal, pressure washing, prepping for cold weather
  
  

• Winter: Clean snow and ice, decorate simply, ensure lighting is functional
  
  

Use tools like the National Association of Realtors’ seasonal maintenance checklist to stay organized.

Boost Your Home’s Market Value With Curb Appeal

If you're thinking about selling, an attractive exterior is one of the easiest ways to boost perceived value. Buyers often decide within seconds if a home feels right—starting from the curb.

Get a free home value estimate or receive a no-obligation cash offer in minutes.

Looking to buy instead? Browse featured listings in Chicago and discover homes that showcase fantastic curb appeal.

Budget-Friendly Ideas to Maintain Curb Appeal

You don’t need a big budget to make a big impact. Try these low-cost upgrades:

• Swap out old hardware (mailbox, door handle)
  
  

• Paint shutters or garage doors
  
  

• Add a bench or small garden sculpture
  
  

• Use seasonal décor with restraint for a tasteful touch
  
  

For more inspiration, visit our Heart of Chicago Homes blog.

Ready to Sell Your Chicago Home? Get a Free Market Analysis!

Selling your home can be a smooth process with the right strategy. We provide a free home value report and connect sellers with qualified buyers.

Request your free market analysis at HeartOfChicagoHomes.com or call/text (312) 361-8288.