Late-Summer Curb Appeal Tips

As summer begins to wind down, it’s a great time to give your home’s exterior a quick refresh. Whether you're preparing to sell or simply want to keep your property looking its best, a few simple updates can go a long way in enhancing curb appeal during the late summer months. Check out our tips for making your curb appeal really stand out! 

1. Refresh Your Landscaping

Late summer can take a toll on your yard. Start by trimming back any overgrown shrubs, trees, or hedges to keep everything neat and tidy. Pull weeds from flower beds and along walkways and remove any plants that have dried out in the heat. Consider planting hardy late-season flowers like mums, marigolds, or ornamental grasses to bring fresh color and texture to your yard. 

2. Revive Your Lawn

Your lawn might be showing signs of heat stress. Now is a great time to give it some extra care with deep watering and a late-summer fertilizer. Patch any brown or bare spots with grass seed, and keep the grass mowed to a consistent height. A lush, green lawn is one of the most noticeable aspects of curb appeal.

3. Clean and Maintain Hardscaping

Over the summer, patios, driveways, and walkways can collect dirt, debris, and mildew. Use a power washer or a strong hose nozzle to clean off built-up grime and stains. Pay special attention to front steps and paths leading to the entrance – they create the first impression. If any hardscaping is cracked or uneven, now is the time to repair it.

4. Freshen Up the Front Door and Exterior Accents

Your front door is a focal point – consider giving it a fresh coat of paint or polish, especially if the current color is faded or chipped. Updating or cleaning the hardware (like handles and knockers) adds a refined touch. You can also repaint or touch up shutters, trim, and even the mailbox if they’re showing wear.

5. Add Simple, Welcoming Touches

Sometimes, small updates have the biggest impact. Swap out an old doormat for something fresh and seasonal. Add potted plants or flowers on the porch or front steps for a pop of color. Consider updating house numbers or exterior light fixtures for a more modern, cohesive look.

6. Declutter and Organize Outdoor Spaces

Make sure your front yard and porch are free of clutter. Store away garden tools, hoses, toys, or seasonal decorations that are no longer in use. A tidy, well-organized exterior helps buyers or guests see the home’s full potential.

7. Inspect for Repairs

Late summer is a great time to check for any small maintenance issues before fall weather arrives. Look for peeling paint, loose railings, broken fence panels, or damaged siding. Taking care of these now prevents larger problems down the road and shows that your home is well-maintained.

Curb appeal is more than just looks – it’s about creating a lasting first impression. These late-summer updates don’t require a huge budget but can make a significant impact. Taking the time to enhance your home’s exterior now will set you up beautifully for the coming season!