Some houses simply stand out. Whether for their size, architecture, or design, houses that get attention are often the best on the block. There are several exterior elements that can make a house be the best one in the neighborhood without being over the top. Any one or combination of these renovations will add value to your home and make your house the best in the neighborhood.

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Exterior Renovations Add Value

The exterior of a home provides that very important first impression and certain features can make all the difference. The first step in upgrading your home’s exterior is determining how your house compares to other houses in the neighborhood. This may help to indicate which area of the house needs to be updated. However, if you have plans to sell the property, make sure it is what the home needs, rather than what you want. If you want to own a home that is the best on the block, then it is worth the investment.

Eight Renovations to Help Your House Be the Best on the Block

The following eight renovations will help your house be a stand-out, while still remaining appealing to other homeowners:1. Update the Front Door

The front entryway of a house makes a huge first impression. The door is a relevant style element which deserves special attention. A new front door can change the entire look of a house as well as refresh its look. This is one feature of a home’s exterior that can make or break its curb appeal. Barbara Gilbert, interior designer and principal of Barbara Gilbert Interiors in Dallas says, “The door is a very relevant style element, and front doors deserve special attention.”

There are so many different styles and colors to perfectly suit your preferences and the look of your home. For example, a glass-paneled door adds elegance to the entryway while a fiberglass or a steel door is very modern. The house numbers on the door should be replaced as well as they often wear over time due to weather.

The color of the front door can also help the house to stand out. A pop of color on an otherwise plain house can create a stylish and updated look. Adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door eliminates any chips or faded paint that make the door look old. Consider the home’s design and architecture as well as neighborhood trends when choosing the color. For example, a red door is an eye-catching color that draws attention to that area of the house.

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2. Windows Matter Too

The front door is one way to update the exterior of your home, but don’t neglect the windows. New windows can play a large role in others’ opinion of a home and can make it look more attractive and well-maintained. They help to break up large areas of siding, add symmetry, and become a focal point for the home’s exterior.

It is time to replace windows if they are: broken, no longer open and close, are drafty, or if they are inefficiently not blocking UV rays. If the existing windows do not have locks, it could make your home more vulnerable and up your home insurance. Tip: If you are considering replacing your windows, double glazed windows are more secure and energy efficient than single glazed panes so they will save on energy bills. Even if you do not need to replace the windows, having them professionally cleaned and taking care of any needed trim work will keep them looking clean and new.

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3. Improve the Landscaping

The right landscaping adds value to your house by making it look more inviting. Michael Wong, a real estate agent with Dave Perry Miller states, “Landscaping is where you get your wow factor.” Different colors in the landscaping really set it apart. For example, plants in varying shades of green, as well as colorful flowers in strategic spots make for an eye-catching design.

Planters with flowers near the front door call attention to that area. Planter boxes on the windowsills or balconies can also add charm and brighten the look of the home.

Landscaping should always be well-maintained. A little upkeep can go a long way in increasing the curb appeal of your home.

•Do a Spring Clean-Up. Tasks such as mowing the lawn, putting down fertilizer, weeding, and removing debris will make the yard look tidy.

• Trim Shrubs. Overgrown landscaping is unsightly, but shaping of trees, shrubs, and bushes makes them look neat.

• Put Down Mulch. Mulch keeps garden beds from being overgrown with weeds as well as showcasing plants and flowers.

• Plant Perennials. Perennials are low-maintenance landscaping. Plants such as coneflower, sage, hostas, or indigo need little care but add color to the front yard.

Landscaping will not only improve the way you feel about the home but is also a worthy investment. An investment of $268 in lawn care adds over $1,200 in value to the home, which is an ROI of 352%.

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4. Add Hardscaping to the Front Area

While you are working on the landscaping, consider adding to the entryway with something beyond the basic walkway. An entryway can be further defined with a basic landing or small front porch. A concrete slab is an inexpensive way to add more space to this area and can be connected to a walkway of brick or concrete pavers. The area can be styled to be more appealing as well as draw attention to the front door. Hardscaping the front garden bed with rocks is another way to add visual interest to the front entryway. This adds to the warmth of the space.

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5. Install Outdoor Lighting

If you want your house to stand out in the evening just as much as during the day, outdoor lighting is key. Lighting should be used to highlight features of the house, the front door, and the landscaping. When done properly, lighting really takes the exterior of the home to the next level.

Sustainability is a big draw for first-time homeowners so if you plan to sell, updated lighting should be energy-efficient, including solar panels or solar-based lighting. Solar energy is also a big bonus for buyers who want to lower their monthly energy bill.

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6. Install New Siding

New siding can give a home a whole new look. Typical siding materials include wood, vinyl, and aluminum, but if you are looking for a unique look you can use siding made from recycled materials. If the siding does not need to be replaced, but just looks dull, a good cleaning can make it sparkle again. With just a soft-bristled brush and some general all-purpose cleaner, or a power washer, dirt, grim, mold, and mildew can be removed for a fresh look. Patching any holes or damage will also keep it looking new.

If you are on a budget and want to give your home a facelift, consider painting the siding a new color. Classic white or neutral can be paired with a bright front door. Or a brighter, bold color is a way to really draw attention to the home. Just remember to keep the rest of the house subdued and classic if you do go with a bold choice.

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7. Install a New Garage Door

Garage doors have become better looking and have better technology over the last ten years. Older garage doors may be sagging, dirty, and noisy. Replacing the garage doors up the curb appeal as well as adding resale value. The National Associate of Realtors Remodeling Impact Report states that a new garage door will recoup 95% of its value. Plus, a new door will improve the energy efficiency of the garage.

A traditional or colonial home should be paired with a wood carriage door while modern homes look good with steel or stained wood doors. If the door is in good shape a good cleaning will suffice. Make sure to clean any windows that have gotten dirty over the winter months.

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8. Build a Deck or Patio

Some outdoor improvements may not be visible from the street, but certainly add to the value of the home. The importance of good outdoor living space has increased exponentially over the last few years so having somewhere to be outside is necessary. If your house does not have a space to enjoy the outdoors, consider adding one. A deck or patio is the perfect place to unwind, entertain, or have a meal.

A deck or patio can range from simple to luxury depending on the materials used, size, and additions. In general, concrete patios range from $16 to $20 per square foot while natural stone patios can be between $35 to $45 per square foot including labor and installation. Investing in the exterior of the home increases the financial value, curb appeal and the quality of life.

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Don’t Go Overboard

Once you get started making exterior renovations, it may be tempting to keep going. However, keep resale in mind when making exterior renovations or changing the house design, even if you are not going to be selling anytime soon. The neighborhood will give clues as to how much to do without going over the top or investing so much money that you won’t recoup any of it. There are many ways to renovate the exterior of the home without going over budget.

Renovating the exterior of your home does not have to be costly or time-consuming but can make a big impact so that your house is the best on the block. With some planning you can give your house a new look that will make it stand out. Not sure where to start? Dzinly.com connects you with the best designers that will make suggestions on your exact house.