Curb appeal is a lot like a first impression — you only get one shot, and it sets the tone for everything that follows.

When buyers pull up to a property, their gut reaction begins before they ever walk through the door. If it feels clean, fresh, and well-maintained on the outside, their brain starts assigning value instantly. If it doesn’t? You’ve got an uphill battle, no matter how perfect that kitchen island is.

Whether you’re selling a polished colonial in Geneseo, a lakeside retreat near Conesus, or a fixer-upper in Mount Morris, the outside matters. A lot.

The good news? You don’t need to blow your budget to make a big impact. Here are 7 underrated, often-overlooked curb appeal moves that we’ve seen turn heads, drive offers, and even bump sale prices.

 

 

 

1. Upgrade Those House Numbers

 

Peeling stickers, rusted metal, or faded numerals? Not exactly a buyer’s love language. You can swap your house numbers for $15 or less and immediately modernize your entry. Go bold. Go visible. Match the vibe of your home — this is a micro-detail with macro effect.

 

 

 

2. $10 Hanging Plants — Instant Warmth

 

This one is almost laughably easy. Walmart. Wegmans. Your favorite local greenhouse. Grab a couple of vibrant hanging plants for the porch. The color adds emotion. The movement draws the eye. It’s soft staging — outdoors.

 

 

 

3. Edge Your Lawn Like You Mean It

 

Even if the grass is mowed, if the lines are messy, it looks like a rush job. A sharp lawn edge along sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds sends a loud message: “This home is cared for.” And it costs nothing but a little elbow grease.

 

 

 

4. Fresh Black Mulch (Yes, Black)

 

Unless your home has deep red or orange brick tones, black mulch is your best bet. It looks crisp, professional, and polished. It also makes the greenery pop. One yard of mulch goes a long way — and the ROI in buyer perception? Massive.

 

 

 

5. Mailbox Facelift

 

We’re not saying replace it (unless it’s ancient). We’re saying spray paint it black, matte, or clean white. Get rid of rust. Tighten bolts. Consider a new number decal. Your mailbox is like the handshake of your property — it should be firm and clean.

 

 

 

6. Pressure Wash Everything

 

Walkways. Steps. Vinyl siding. Retaining walls. Even the driveway. You won’t believe the transformation — especially in older properties. Dirt and grime age a home. A quick rinse adds literal and visual value.

 

 

 

7. Add Solar Lights or a Seasonal Wreath

 

We’re not talking holiday overload — just a clean, neutral pop of charm. Solar lights lining the walkway or a modern wreath on the door creates a welcoming vibe that buyers remember. It says: “This is a place people want to be.”

 

 

 

Bonus Tip: Go Local

 

Use a local nursery. Support your neighborhood hardware store. The details matter — and so does the story. When buyers hear you sourced flowers from the same shop down the street, it reinforces the emotional connection to the community.

 

 

 

Why It Matters

 

In this market, especially in Livingston, Genesee, and Ontario counties, buyer expectations are sky-high. Curb appeal isn’t fluff — it’s strategy. It creates emotional momentum before the showing even starts, and that can add real dollars to your bottom line.

 

 

 

Want a Custom Curb Appeal Power Plan?

 

Before you list, we’ll walk your property and give you a free exterior review — no pressure, no nonsense. Just real advice that helps your home stand out, sell faster, and shine in a crowded market.

The Sharman Team doesn’t do “good enough.” We do community-first, results always.

Let’s raise that first impression — and your sale price — together.

 

 

 

Get in touch:

 

Matthew Sharman

Call/Text: (585) 727-0980

Email: matt@thesharmanteam.com