10 backyard upgrades that raise curb appeal without going over $200

Upgrading your backyard doesn’t have to drain your savings. With the right projects, you can make your outdoor space look polished and inviting for less than $200. The key is focusing on changes that have a big visual impact without requiring professional help.

From lighting to landscaping, there are affordable ways to make your yard stand out in a good way. Here are ten upgrades that raise curb appeal and keep you on budget.

Adding Solar Path Lights

Solar path lights are one of the easiest ways to give your backyard a more finished look. They’re inexpensive, require no wiring, and immediately make walkways, patios, or garden beds stand out.

Good lighting doesn’t just improve appearance — it also adds safety and usability after dark. For less than $200, you can line a path, highlight landscaping, or brighten up a seating area, making the whole yard feel more inviting.

Planting a Tree or Two

A young tree can cost under $100 and adds instant character to a backyard. With proper placement, it can provide shade, privacy, and a focal point that boosts long-term curb appeal.

Trees are one of the few backyard investments that continue to grow in value over time. Buyers love the idea of established landscaping, and starting with a couple now is a budget-friendly way to add lasting appeal.

Building Raised Garden Beds

With some lumber and soil, you can build raised beds that make a backyard look organized and well-kept. They create defined planting areas that look intentional instead of messy.

Raised beds don’t just look nice — they’re practical. They keep weeds in check, make gardening easier, and give your outdoor space a sense of structure, all without costing more than a couple hundred dollars.

Installing a Fire Pit

You can pick up a pre-made fire pit or build one yourself with pavers for under $200. It instantly makes your backyard a gathering spot and adds appeal for anyone who enjoys entertaining.

Since fire pits are seen as both functional and fun, they give your yard an edge without a high price tag. They also photograph well in listings, which helps your home stand out to potential buyers.

Refreshing Mulch and Edging

Mulch is cheap but makes a huge difference. Adding fresh mulch to flower beds and trees creates clean lines and makes plants stand out. Pairing it with edging gives everything a more finished look.

This small investment can make landscaping look like it’s been professionally maintained. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to boost curb appeal without overspending.

Hanging String Lights

Outdoor string lights instantly create an inviting atmosphere. They’re easy to hang along fences, patios, or pergolas and can transform your yard for less than $100.

These lights aren’t just decorative — they extend the usability of your backyard after sunset. Buyers and guests alike see them as an added bonus, making the space feel more welcoming.

Adding a Fresh Coat of Fence Stain

A worn fence can drag down your yard’s overall appearance. For under $200, you can pick up stain or paint and give it new life. A freshly coated fence looks sharp and signals regular upkeep.

This kind of project pays off because it refreshes a large surface area. A well-kept fence frames your yard and raises the impression of the entire property.

Creating a Gravel Seating Area

Gravel is affordable and easy to install. You can mark off a corner of your yard, add pea gravel, and set out a couple of chairs to create a defined seating area.

This project gives buyers and guests a clear sense of how to use the space. It makes the yard feel purposeful and functional without requiring expensive landscaping.

Planting Seasonal Flowers

A flat of flowers costs very little, but the color and freshness they add make a big difference. Planting them along walkways, around trees, or in pots instantly brightens the space.

Seasonal flowers show care and attention to detail. They boost curb appeal by making the yard look lively and well-maintained, and they’re one of the easiest upgrades to repeat throughout the year.

Updating Outdoor Furniture

You don’t have to buy a full new set. Replacing worn cushions, adding a small outdoor rug, or even giving a table a coat of spray paint can completely change how your furniture looks.

Since outdoor furniture is often a focal point, keeping it fresh makes the entire backyard look more expensive. With a little creativity, you can refresh what you already have without spending more than $200.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.