The front yard could make or break a listing, either beckoning buyers to the front door or prompting them to look at homes elsewhere. Ginger Wilcox, the president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, shares how to transform a front yard into an inviting, stylish space that welcomes home buyers.
1. Start at the Front Door
The front door is your home’s focal point, and “a fresh coat of paint instantly refreshes the entrance,” Wilcox says. She highlights consumers’ favorite choices, uncovered by Dotdash Meredith research: Classic black is the overall top front door choice, followed by navy blue. If you want to add some flair, “red is helpful for drama, yellow for warmth, and sage green brings that calming nature-inspired vibe,” Wilcox says. (Gather more ideas: Front Door Refresh: The Overlooked Housing Update That Sells)
2. Consider Function and Style
“The front porch is really where your home’s personality begins,” Wilcox says. Add a seating area—whether it’s with a rocking chair, porch swing or a bistro table to create a cozy, lived-in feel that welcomes guests, she says. Also, swap out faded or outdated house address numbers for a low-cost update that can help freshen up the home’s curb appeal.
3. Upgrade the Lighting
Lighting plays a dual role—safety and ambiance. “Lighting is one of the most important and most impactful features for your front yard,” Wilcox says. For budget-friendly options, lean into solar lighting options. Use them creatively to line walkways, up-light a tree or yard features, or highlight the home’s address numbers.
4. Use Plants to Soften the Edges
Plants can add warmth and dimension to your home’s exterior. “Potted plants and seasonal flowers can soften the lines of the house and add dimension and color,” Wilcox says. Frame your entryway with potted flowers or greenery or add a wreath to the front door.
Clean Up the Landscape
When it comes to curb appeal, “Overgrown landscaping is the number one distractor,” Wilcox says. “Have a clean, manicured look.” Add a fresh layer of mulch and ensure the edges of your landscape are attended to.
6. Eliminate Distractions
Clutter can distract from the home’s overall presentation: “Too many mismatched planters or garden decorations distracts from the house,” Wilcox says. Keep things cohesive, such as by harmonizing outdoor colors and materials. “If the front porch light is brass, but the mailbox is black, and then you’ve got planters that are blue, it can feel chaotic,” Wilcox says. Try to unify your materials and colors to make the space feel polished and intentional.
