8 curb appeal tricks that look pricey but aren’t

Curb appeal is often what makes or breaks first impressions, but you don’t need a landscaping budget in the thousands to pull it off. A few affordable updates go a long way in making your home look cared for, polished, and yes—more expensive than it really was.

Fresh Mulch in the Beds

Mulch is one of the cheapest landscaping updates with the biggest payoff. A fresh layer makes your yard look manicured instantly. Stick with dark brown or black for a more “high-end” appearance compared to bright red mulch.

Framed House Numbers

Tiny, crooked house numbers look dated. Switching to large, modern house numbers—mounted on a wood or metal plaque—makes your home feel instantly more custom. Many online options are under $50 but make a huge difference.

Solar Pathway Lights

Lining a walkway with solar lights looks polished at night and makes your home feel more inviting. They’re inexpensive and don’t require wiring, but the effect is the same as pricier wired systems.

Window Boxes

Filled with trailing flowers or greenery, window boxes add charm and color. Vinyl or cedar-look boxes from Amazon or Home Depot are inexpensive, but once planted, they look like custom-built upgrades.

Power-Washed Driveway

You’d be surprised how much a dirty driveway drags down curb appeal. Renting a power washer for a day gives your concrete that “freshly poured” look, which people often associate with newer, pricier homes.

Symmetrical Entry Décor

Two matching lanterns, planters, or topiaries flanking the front door feel upscale. Symmetry tricks the eye into reading balance and wealth—even if the items came from Walmart.

Garage Door Hardware Kits

Magnetic faux hardware kits can turn a plain garage door into one that looks carriage-style. For under $30, it reads as an expensive upgrade when you pull into the driveway.

A Simple Seasonal Wreath

A fresh wreath on the front door—whether boxwood, eucalyptus, or seasonal flowers—gives off a warm, styled look. Even inexpensive options from craft stores feel like a high-end finishing touch.

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