Exterior Renovation: A Key to a Successful Home Sale

Curb appeal: it’s that aesthetic, “atmospheric” wow factor your property gives off that makes a viewer feel at home from the first.

When the exteriors of your home look pristine and inviting, it doesn’t just grab a visitor’s attention; the property’s sale price goes up. Research shows a positive correlation between a home’s curb appeal and its value.

So, it pays off for you, as a home seller, to invest in exterior upgrades before putting your property on the market. And it’s even more lucrative to choose exterior renovations with a high return on investment (ROI) or that cost a little but have a significant impact. Here’s a guide to six exterior upgrades any home seller should consider. 

1. Garage door 

Garage doors take up a lot of real estate on your home’s facade, especially if they are on the front of the property. So, you want them to look new and appealing—not like a dated eyesore. Replacing this feature is ranked one of the most high ROI upgrades homeowners can make. Research shows you’ll almost double your investment when you sell. 

If your garage door is relatively new and only needs an aesthetic refresh, you might be able to do a successful DIY upgrade with a coat of paint and new hardware. But consider replacing an older door, especially if it lacks functionality. The next homeowner will want to be able to open the door with a remote opener. 

2. Front door

A front door is like your home’s calling card—essential to making a solid first impression. if you’re on a budget, a refined (or tastefully bold) paint job might be enough of a refresh. But consider springing for a new door altogether—opting for an energy-efficient model. A new, tight-fitting door helps maintain a comfortable temperature indoors. 

Take your front door revamp to the next level by adding a keypad lock and a video doorbell—“smart” little upgrades that sweeten the deal for a buyer. 

3. Siding 

Peeling paint, mold, and grime are not things a potential buyer wants to see on the side of a home they’re considering buying. Updating your property’s siding can give it a major facelift—and provide peace of mind for buyers. It’s one less thing they’ll have to worry about replacing. 

Swapping old siding for new vinyl or fiber concrete is a sound investment. You might not make back all of your investment when you sell, but research shows you’ll recoup most of it. Plus, you’re contributing to the overall curb-appeal value boost this major upgrade effects. 

4. Stone veneer

The results are in and buyers like stone veneer. Adding this accent boasts a nearly 155 percent ROI. Stone veneer adds a luxurious touch, is insulating (and therefore helps keep homes warm), and is durable. Plus, you can install it right over the existing siding. 

While a high-ROI upgrade, stone veneer isn’t right for all property styles. These stones might look out of place in a modern, airy home. Consider getting a second opinion from your real estate agent or a design-inclined friend before making this costly decision. And if you do ultimately decide that stone veneer is right for your home, try to find a variety that looks natural in your environment—ideally made out of local rock types.

5. Deck 

Functional outdoor space like a deck or a patio is a major plus for homebuyers. This addition increases the liveable space of your home and makes it more inviting. Decks are excellent entertaining and relaxation spaces.

Adding a wooden deck to your home is a costly, but high ROI investment. Data shows you’ll nearly recoup the funds you put in. But there are other ways to improve and add space to the exterior of your home like putting down pavers to make a little patio and creating a seating area on it. You can also do the same by putting mulch down under a shady tree and adding a couple of chairs and a tiny table. Any investment you make in furniture for these spaces will be well worth it: your home looks more appealing to a potential buyer, and you can take the pieces with you when you move. 

6. Landscaping 

Landscaping is a DIY, budget-friendly way to improve your home’s exterior quickly. Start by doing general maintenance, like mowing the lawn, weeding, and trimming bushes, to ensure that any existing landscaping looks its best. Then, add perennial gardens and plants fast-growing trees and shrubs. Consider building walkways from pavers or revamping existing paths.

If your property doesn’t have an extensive lawn, you can still infuse it with greenery. Add potted plants around your door or window boxes with flowers.

7. New windows

Swapping outdated windows not only gives your home an aesthetic refresh but also helps boost the property’s energy efficiency—a major selling point for potential buyers who hope to save on their utility bills. 

If you don’t have the funds to replace all of your home's windows (or some have recently been replaced), put in new models where they’re most likely to be seen, like on the front of the home. Just ensure that the color and material of the window frames look similar to any existing ones.

8. Exterior paint

If your home’s siding is paintable (like wood or vinyl) and it doesn’t need a complete replacement, give it a fresh coat. Your home’s exterior will look cleaner and newer thanks to this aesthetic refresh that’s less costly than replacing your home's siding altogether. 

Be sure to touch up the details, too, like railings, stairs, and even your mailbox post—anything that could take away from the pristine look of your freshly painted home. 

9. Roofing shingles

Roof damage can be unsightly and also a hassle for potential buyers, who won’t want to deal with leaks or repair this aspect of the home themselves. They may figure how much life your roofing tiles have left into their decision, and knowing they’ll have to replace them within just a few years of purchase can be a drawback.

A full roof replacement might only earn you back half of your investment when you sell but focusing your funds on repairs can be a cost-effective way to get your home in better shape for a buyer. 

Not sure which upgrades add value? Ask your agent

Undertaking exterior renovations to boost your home’s value and appeal can feel overwhelming. How can you know if you’re making the right upgrades? The simple answer is to ask your real estate agent. These professionals have tons of experience helping people in your position.

Work with a Titus-affiliated realtor and get help prepping and selling your home from one of the best agents in the industry. Plus, Titus partner agents have access to an exclusive financing option for home improvements: a closing line of credit (CLoC). Credits of up to $25,000 are interest-free. Learn how it works here.