1. Home
  2. / About
  3. / News
  4. / How To: Improve Kerb Appeal

How To: Improve Kerb Appeal

12 September, 2024

A collage of images showing rose bushes with flowers, front porch with a black door, a selection of terraced houses in the UK and a roof of a house.

If you’re preparing to sell your home, don’t overlook the importance of kerb appeal. The exterior is the very first thing buyers will see- whether in photographs or when arriving for a viewing — and it sets the tone for the entire property. From a freshly painted front door and sparkling clean windows to a well-presented driveway and tidy garden, these details immediately influence first impressions.   Making sure the outside looks welcoming and well-cared for is just as important as staging the inside.

Take a look at our recommendations below to help your property stand out from the very first glance.


Front Door

Your front door is the gateway to your home and one of the first details buyers will notice. If it’s old or damaged, replacing it can instantly lift the property’s appeal. However, if it’s still in good condition, a simple refresh can work wonders — a new coat of paint in a welcoming colour, polished hardware, and a thorough clean of the frame, steps, and any railings nearby. These small touches create an inviting entrance that conveys care and quality before buyers even step inside.

Windows

Next, take a close look at your windows, as they play a big role in both the overall appearance and practicality of your home. If you already have double glazing, this is a great selling point to highlight, as it helps with energy efficiency and lowers household bills — two things buyers are actively looking for. If upgrading isn’t an option before selling, focus on ensuring your windows are in their best possible condition. Give the glass a thorough clean inside and out, and don’t forget the frames, sills, and tricky corners. Sparkling windows allow more natural light to flood in, brighten your photos, and make your home look well maintained.

Roof

Another key feature to check is your roof, as its condition can make a big impression on potential buyers. Replacing any missing, loose, or cracked tiles and repairing damaged bricks not only improves the appearance of your home but also demonstrates that the property has been well-looked after. These small fixes can extend the life of your roof, prevent costly leaks, and are far more affordable than a full replacement. Showing that ongoing maintenance has been taken seriously can reassure buyers and give your home an important edge in the market.

Front Garden

If you have a front garden, be sure to give it the attention it deserves, as it plays a huge part in creating that all-important first impression. Remove weeds, dead plants, and fallen leaves, and keep the grass, hedges, and bushes neatly trimmed. Adding a few seasonal flowers can inject colour and warmth, instantly making the exterior feel more inviting and cared for. A well-presented garden sets a positive tone for buyers before they even step inside.

Driveway

A driveway can be a valuable selling point, offering the convenience of off-street parking that many buyers are actively looking for. To ensure it creates the right impression, remove any weeds growing in the cracks and give the surface a good clean to get rid of stains, mud, or fallen leaves. A neat, well-kept driveway not only looks more attractive in photographs but also highlights the practical benefits your property has to offer.

Fence

Fencing is another feature that can quickly influence how buyers perceive your home, so don’t overlook it. Inspect the front, side, and rear boundaries, and make sure any broken or missing panels are repaired before they develop into bigger issues that could prove costly. If the paintwork looks tired or chipped, a fresh coat will instantly improve its appearance, while wooden fences benefit from being treated to extend their lifespan. A secure, well-maintained fence not only looks smart but also reassures buyers about privacy and upkeep.  

Gutters

If you’re selling during the autumn months, or at any time of year, don’t forget to check and clean your gutters. Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow, leading to potential damp issues or structural damage over time, which can be a concern for buyers. Replace or repair any damaged sections to ensure they’re working properly. A simple clean not only prevents problems but also shows buyers that the home has been well-cared for- an especially important detail in our often rainy climate.

House Exterior

Last but not least, take a good look at the overall exterior of your property. If you spot any cracked bricks, consider repairing or replacing them where possible to maintain a solid, well-kept appearance. If the paint on exterior walls looks chipped or weathered, a fresh coat can dramatically lift the look of your home. Be sure to tackle any visible stains too — small improvements like these can make the whole property feel cleaner, brighter, and better cared for, giving buyers greater confidence from the very first glance. 


Paying attention to your property’s exterior is a simple but powerful way to boost its appeal to buyers. From a well-kept garden and freshly painted front door to clean windows, repaired fences, and tidy driveways, these details all add up to create a positive first impression before a buyer even steps inside. By taking the time to present the outside of your home at its best, you not only enhance your photographs but also increase buyer confidence, helping your property stand out and maximise its value in today’s market.

Want to sell?

List your home with a market leading estate agent in the North East, boasting an enviable reputation for achieving results. Call us on 0191 236 1079.

Share article:

On The Market PRS Rightmove TDS The Property Ombudsman TSI UK ALA

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Please let us know your preferences.

Please read our Cookie policy.

Manage