When buyers pull up to a home in Grand Rapids, their first impression starts before they even walk through the door. Fresh landscaping, a well-kept entry, and smart exterior updates can tip the scales toward a higher sale price or at least more showings and stronger offers.
Here’s how you can increase curb appeal today and turn drive-bys into showings.
1. Refresh the front entry
Your front door sets the tone. A bold coat of paint, modern hardware, and clear house numbers instantly update the look. Adding a new welcome mat or seasonal plants creates a warm invitation.
2. Upgrade exterior lighting
Good lighting helps your home shine, literally. Add stylish sconces or pathway lights to highlight walkways and landscaping. Buyers are often touring at dusk or evening, and lighting makes the home feel safe and well cared for.
3. Tidy up the landscaping
Trim shrubs, edge the lawn, and clear out weeds. Planting simple flowers or adding fresh mulch can make a $200 difference look like $2,000. In West Michigan’s four-season climate, even basic upkeep tells buyers the home has been well maintained.
4. Power wash and paint
Dirt and grime build up quickly on siding, porches, and driveways. A good power wash can make surfaces look brand new. If paint is chipping, invest in touch-ups or repainting trim. These updates add instant polish.
5. Update fixtures and accents
Swap dated door handles, mailbox hardware, or porch light fixtures for modern finishes. These small details often cost less than $500 combined but help your home stand out online and in person.
Why curb appeal matters in Grand Rapids
Online photos pop. First impressions are often made on Zillow or the MLS — curb appeal improvements show up in every exterior shot.
Buyers judge care. A neat exterior signals the entire property has been maintained.
Faster sales. Local data shows homes with high curb appeal receive more showings and spend fewer days on market.
Quick Curb Appeal Checklist
Paint or refinish the front door
Trim trees, bushes, and edge the lawn
Add fresh mulch and flowers
Clean or replace house numbers
Install updated porch lights or path lighting
Power wash siding and driveways
FAQ: Curb Appeal and Home Value in West Michigan
Does curb appeal really affect home value?
Yes. Homes with strong curb appeal often sell for more and move faster, especially in competitive Grand Rapids neighborhoods.
What’s the cheapest way to boost curb appeal?
A can of paint for the front door, a few bags of mulch, and a Saturday afternoon of yard work.
Should I hire a landscaper?
If your yard is large or overgrown, hiring a local landscaper can make a huge difference in first impressions and is often worth the cost.
When should I make improvements?
Ideally before listing photos are taken. Online images are often a buyer’s first showing.
Call to Action
Thinking about selling in 2025? Smallegan Real Estate can walk your property and give you a curb appeal game plan tailored to your neighborhood.
