The leaves are falling, and the temperatures are milder. Autumn is an excellent time of year to improve the exterior of your home. Whether you’re planning to list the property on the market or are making improvements for your family to enjoy, here are a few simple ways to boost fall curb appeal. First impressions matter, especially if you’re selling your home. You don’t know when an interested buyer might drive by. To keep your property looking its best, follow these tips.

1. Give Your Front Door a Facelift to Boost Fall Curb Appeal

Your front door is the first thing guests see when they visit, so make sure it makes a good impression. If your door looks dirty or damaged, guests will think the rest of the home hasn’t been maintained. Give the door a fresh coat of paint in a bright fall color like a rusty orange or burgundy. Add a new seasonal wreath or welcome mat to spruce things up.

2. Rake the Leaves

Fall leaves are beautiful. However, when they cover the lawn, they can damage your grass. Plus, it makes the landscaping look neglected. Rake the leaves regularly to keep your yard looking tidy and well-maintained. Use them to mulch your flower beds or compost them for future use in the garden.

3. Plant Fall Flowers to Boost Curb Appeal

Mums are the most commonly available fall flower and are surprisingly easy to take care of. They come in various colors, so you’re sure to find one that compliments your home’s color scheme. Pansies and marigolds are also simple to grow and look attractive in garden beds or pots. Fall flowers add color that will catch the eye of passersby.

4. Add Outdoor Lighting

As the days get shorter, outdoor lighting becomes essential. Illuminate the yard, garden beds, and walkways to improve safety. LED stake lights easily light up pathways and steps, while motion-detecting flood lights can help deter would-be burglars. String lights are also perfect for adding ambiance for cool autumn evenings.

Good outdoor lighting brightens the yard and makes the exterior of your home more attractive to potential buyers who drive by after dusk.

5. Power Wash the Exterior

Over time, dirt and grime accumulate on the exterior of your home, making it look dull and dingy. Combat this by renting or purchasing a power washer and giving your home’s siding, porch, sidewalks, and driveway a good cleaning. The siding will look new again, and you’ll improve the appearance of the decks, front porch, and walkways.

These five simple tips can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal this fall season. If you’re listing the house for sale, talk to your real estate agent about other ways to prepare the property.

Reifsteck Home Inspections offers inspections to homebuyers and sellers in Champaign, Illinois, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request an appointment.