Warm-Weather Exterior Refresh: A Homeowner’s Checklist

You do not have to be selling to care about how your home looks from the street. A well-kept exterior is more pleasant to come home to, helps protect materials from wear and supports your home’s value over time. Warm, dry weather makes it easier to tackle outdoor projects, so it is a natural time to give the outside of your house a refresh. Here is a checklist to work through at your own pace.

1. Tidy and Brighten the Yard

Begin with the green spaces. Cut back overgrown shrubs, pull weeds and remove any plants that did not survive the cooler months. Then fill in gaps with fresh color.

• Native plants usually need less water and less fuss once established.
• Containers by the front steps are an easy way to add flowers without digging new beds.
• A fresh layer of mulch helps hold in moisture and makes beds look finished.

2. Touch Up the Paint

Sun and humidity are tough on exterior paint. Walk around your home and look for fading, peeling or bare wood. You may not need to repaint the whole house. Freshening the trim, shutters, porch railings or garage door can make the entire exterior look cleaner. Plan painting for a stretch of mild, dry days so the finish cures properly.

3. Give the Entry Some Personality

Your front door is where guests form their first impression. A few low-cost ideas:

• Paint the door a color that complements the rest of the house.
• Replace worn hardware, a tired doormat or faded house numbers.
• Add a bench, a pair of planters or a wreath for a welcoming touch.

4. Add Outdoor Lighting

Lighting does double duty. It makes your home look inviting after dark and helps family and guests move around safely. Solar path lights are simple to install and need no wiring. Sconces by the door, lights over the garage and a few uplights on trees or architectural features can add depth and help deter unwanted visitors.

5. Fix the Hard Surfaces

Cracked, stained or uneven driveways and walkways stand out more than people expect, and they can become trip hazards. Fill small cracks, power wash stains and consider resealing asphalt or concrete if it is due. Do not forget the edges, where grass and weeds tend to creep in.

Keep It Manageable

You do not need to finish everything in one weekend. Pick one or two projects at a time, start with whatever bothers you most and build from there. Small, steady improvements are easier on your budget and your back.

Planning Something Bigger?

If your wish list includes a new roof, siding or a full landscape redesign, a home equity line of credit may be one way to fund the work, depending on your equity and situation. Others prefer a cash-out refinance. A FLO Mortgage loan officer can help you compare the options. Get in touch and we will walk you through what makes sense for your goals.

This article is for general education and is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines and program availability. FLO Mortgage, Company NMLS #1835856. Equal Housing Opportunity.