Homeowners often forget that the look of the exterior of your home is just as important as the look of the interior. It is easy to become caught up in making sure the interior of your home is perfectly updated and decorated, and forget about the exterior completely. The exterior of your home should never be forgotten because it is the first impression of your home, and just like all first impressions, you want it to be a good one. Here are some easy upgrades for the exterior of your home that are sure to create an inviting look.

Updates to the home

Homes are built to withstand harsh weather and climates, but that does not mean that they will look good all of the time. As homes age and take beatings from weather conditions, they need extra tender love and care every once in a while. Your home should be power washed at least once a year to keep it looking fresh and new as well as prevent problems that weather, dirt and grime can cause. If your home is looking drab, consider brightening it up with window boxes, shutters or other features that can make windows shine and add some character to the home.

Updates to the landscape

Obviously a yard needs to be taken care of by mowing the grass and planting and maintaining flowers, bushes and trees. A yard should be inviting, and you can make it that way by adding special features such as a tree bench for shaded seating. If you plan on spending a lot of time in your front or back yard, add mood lighting for late summer nights that will be enough to allow people to see without taking away from the beauty of the night sky. Draw eyes to your beautiful landscape by displaying your house numbers in a creative way such as on old flower pots that sit on your front porch, or a bench next to the porch. Creativity is essential to bringing your home landscape to life.

Updates that hide eye sores

Hiding eye sores is vital for curb appeal. Listotic suggests keeping your trash bins hidden one way or another. If you cannot fit your garbage cans into your garage, consider building a small fence or shed to house them without looking tacky. Air conditioners are also nothing pretty to look at, but can be easily covered up with a small lattice fence, siding or paneling. Believe it or not, front doors have a major role when it comes to curb appeal. Sometimes all a front door needs is a fresh coat of paint, other times it should be replaced completely. Consider changing the doorknob and locks to give your front door a makeover, and prevent it from being the biggest eye sore of your home.