Elevating Curb Appeal
When staging a home, it’s easy to focus on perfecting the interior—flawless furniture placement, fresh paint, and just the right décor. But curb appeal is just as important because first impressions happen before buyers even step through the door.
A well-maintained, inviting exterior sets the stage for what’s inside and can make a lasting impact on buyer perception. From the front door to the driveway, a polished exterior creates a welcoming, move-in-ready feel that draws buyers in.
Whether you’re a home stager, real estate professional, or just starting to explore home staging, focusing on exterior staging is a powerful way to maximize a home’s value and overall appeal.
Why Curb Appeal Matters in Home Staging
Buyers form an opinion about a home within seconds of arriving.
A fresh, well-maintained exterior signals pride of ownership and suggests a home has been properly cared for. On the other hand, peeling paint, overgrown landscaping, or cluttered driveways can raise concerns about potential maintenance issues inside.
Curb appeal builds buyer confidence. A welcoming entryway, neatly trimmed landscaping, and a clean, polished driveway create an immediate sense of order and care.
These small details subconsciously assure buyers that the home has been well maintained, making them more likely to view the property positively.
Key Areas to Focus on for Exterior Staging
The Front Door: The First Welcome
A fresh coat of paint can make a huge impact—Benjamin Moore’s® Onyx is a go-to shade for a bold yet classic front door.
Peeling or chipped paint? It’s time for a refresh (if the season permits).
Add a seasonal wreath and a clean doormat to make the entryway feel warm and inviting.
Ensure windows and doors are spotless—recommend professional cleaning if needed.
Driveway & Walkways: Clean and Clutter-Free
A driveway is not a storage space—remove recreational vehicles, trailers, or snowmobiles before staging.
On open house day, all vehicles should be removed from the driveway to showcase its full potential.
Garbage and recycling bins should be tucked out of sight, rather than left in the driveway.
Spray wash the driveway and walkways to eliminate dirt, oil stains, and weeds. A fresh coat of black tar can give the driveway a brand-new look.
In winter, ensure snow and ice are cleared from all pathways to create a safe, inviting entry.
Landscaping: Simple Touches, Big Impact
A well-maintained garden suggests care and pride in homeownership.
Trim overgrown shrubs, especially if they block windows or walkways. If the homeowner is unable to manage this, consider recommending a landscaper.
Adding black mulch is a quick, cost-effective way to make flower beds look fresh and vibrant.
Solar lights along pathways create a soft, inviting ambiance in the evening.
Outdoor Lighting: Highlight the Home’s Best Features
Ensure all exterior lights work and turn them on during evening showings or open houses.
Consider updating outdated fixtures to modernize the look of the home.
Well-placed lighting can highlight the home’s architecture and landscaping.
A Well-Staged Exterior Completes the Picture
Staging is about making a home feel inviting and well cared for from the moment buyers arrive. A polished exterior sets the tone for the entire showing and can shape a buyer’s first impression in an instant.
Before putting a home on the market, take a step back and view it through a buyer’s eyes. Does it look welcoming, or does it signal that extra work might be needed?
Small, thoughtful updates—like a fresh coat of paint on the front door, trimmed landscaping, or a clean driveway—can make a huge difference in curb appeal and help a home sell faster (and for top dollar).
