10 major mistakes that drag down your home’s value

First impressions matter, and that includes your front yard. It’s one of the first things people notice—whether they’re neighbors, guests, or potential buyers. A messy or outdated setup doesn’t just look off; it can actually drag down your home’s value.

Even small things like overgrown shrubs or cheap-looking fixtures can make the whole property feel neglected. If you’re trying to clean things up and protect your investment, here are the front yard mistakes you’ll want to fix first.

Letting the Grass Die Out

A patchy, brown lawn tells people one of two things: you don’t care or you’re overwhelmed. Neither sends a good message. Healthy grass gives the impression your home is well-kept inside and out.

If watering’s a struggle, consider drought-tolerant options or rework your schedule. Avoid mowing too short or skipping seasonal treatments. Letting your lawn go wild—or completely dead—can knock thousands off perceived value.

Ignoring Overgrown Shrubs

Bushes that haven’t been trimmed in a year or more can make your whole house look smaller and older. They block windows, hide architectural details, and collect debris.

Even if your home is clean and updated, people notice the overgrowth first. Keep shrubs cut back, shaped, and sized right for your space. And if a plant is past saving, don’t be afraid to dig it out and start fresh.

Skipping Fresh Mulch

Bare, dry flower beds give off a neglected feel, even if you’ve got decent plants. Fresh mulch instantly makes things look neater and more cared for.

It also helps your plants retain moisture and stay healthy longer. Stick with natural mulch colors—nothing too red or artificially dyed—and plan to refresh it once or twice a year.

Outdated or Dingy Lighting

Old lantern-style fixtures covered in rust or cobwebs age your house fast. Even if they work fine, they can make the entryway feel uninviting or dark.

Swapping in a modern fixture or giving the old one a deep clean and fresh paint job makes a noticeable difference. And while you’re at it, make sure your bulbs are the right brightness—not too dim or too cool-toned.

Cluttered or Mismatched Decor

Too many yard ornaments, seasonal flags, or mismatched flower pots can overwhelm the space and make it look chaotic. Buyers want to picture themselves living there, not sort through your personal style.

Stick to one or two decorative touches near the door or walkway, and keep the rest clean and open. Less clutter means more visual impact where it actually counts.

Faded or Peeling Paint

Your front door, trim, and shutters are focal points. If the paint’s faded, chipped, or completely the wrong color for your house, it drags everything down.

A fresh coat—especially on the door—can add curb appeal fast. Go with clean, classic shades and skip anything too trendy or harsh. It should feel clean and intentional, not like an afterthought.

Leaving Weeds in Plain Sight

Weeds in the flower beds, driveway cracks, or sidewalk edges instantly make your yard look unkempt. It tells people you haven’t stayed on top of the basics.

Pull them often and treat problem areas with a weed preventer if needed. Clean edges and weed-free beds give the whole space a more polished, taken-care-of look—without much extra effort.

Missing or Messy House Numbers

Faded, crooked, or missing house numbers aren’t just a small detail—they make your home look forgotten. It’s also a hassle for guests, delivery drivers, and emergency responders.

Replace worn-out numbers with something modern and easy to read from the street. Keep it clean and match the finish to your lighting or mailbox for a more put-together look.

Cracked or Stained Concrete

Driveways and walkways covered in oil stains, cracks, or weeds growing through the seams age your property fast. Even a beautiful lawn won’t make up for messy hardscaping.

Pressure washing goes a long way here. For cracks, patch them up with filler or resurfacer. If it’s too far gone, consider a new pour or even switching to pavers or gravel.

Dead Plants by the Front Door

Brown mums, wilted hanging baskets, or empty planters right by the entrance are hard to ignore. They make your home feel tired—even if the rest is in good shape.

Swap in seasonal plants or low-maintenance greenery you can keep alive. And if you’re between seasons or plantings, skip the pots altogether instead of leaving them empty or dying.

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