5 Smart Ways to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal This Spring

As the weather warms and everything begins to bloom, spring is the perfect time to freshen up the outside of your home. Whether you’re looking to make your entryway more inviting or simply take pride in your home’s appearance, boosting your curb appeal doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming.

At Ash Street Housing Cooperative, your home is a reflection of you—and with a few easy updates, you can make it shine without making any structural changes. Here are five smart, co-op-friendly ways to enhance your home’s exterior this spring.

1. Refresh Your Planters and Outdoor Pots

One of the quickest ways to add life and color to your home’s exterior is by updating your planters. Whether you use clay pots, hanging baskets, or window boxes, adding fresh seasonal flowers or greenery creates an instant visual upgrade.

Choose hardy spring blooms like pansies, petunias, or marigolds—or go with easy-care greenery like ferns or ornamental grasses. Group pots in varying sizes by your front steps or walkway for an eye-catching display.

Tip: Avoid blocking sidewalks or access areas and use a plant caddy for easier mobility and maintenance.

2. Add a New Welcome Mat or Seasonal Door Décor

Your front door is the first thing visitors (and you!) see. Swapping out a worn welcome mat for a fresh one is a small change that makes a big impact. Choose a mat with a seasonal greeting or a clean, classic design.

If you enjoy decorating, add a spring-themed wreath made of faux greenery, flowers, or even repurposed materials. These small touches instantly make your home feel more cared-for and inviting.

3. Power Wash Entryways and Steps

Over time, dirt, moss, and mildew can build up on concrete steps, porches, or siding—especially after a snowy Midwest winter. A quick rinse with a garden hose can help, but for a deeper clean, consider renting or borrowing a power washer.

Even just cleaning the concrete walkway leading to your home can make the entire area look newer and more vibrant. If you don’t own a power washer, many local hardware stores rent them for the day at a reasonable rate.

4. Brighten Up with Solar-Powered Pathway Lights

Want to add charm and function without wiring or major installation? Solar-powered lights are an affordable, no-fuss way to upgrade your walkway or highlight your entry path.

These lights charge during the day and turn on automatically at dusk, adding a welcoming glow to your home without increasing your electric bill. You can find them at most home improvement stores, and they’re easy to place right into the ground—no tools needed.

5. Tidy Up Landscaping and Edges

A clean, trimmed edge along your walkway, porch, or flowerbed makes a big difference in curb appeal. Rake away leaves and debris, trim overgrown bushes, and edge your lawn along the sidewalks.

Consider adding a few decorative rocks or mulch around the base of existing plants to define the space and improve drainage near the home. Remember to keep everything low and clear so cooperative maintenance staff can access outdoor areas as needed.

Small Touches, Big Difference

Improving your home’s exterior doesn’t require big renovations—just a few thoughtful touches can make your unit look more polished, welcoming, and well-loved. And the best part? These projects are easy to do in a weekend and can be adjusted seasonally to keep your home looking its best year-round.

If you're not yet a member of Ash Street Housing Cooperative, now is a great time to stop by the office to check on availability. Co-op living offers all the pride of homeownership with none of the stress of major maintenance—and spring is the perfect season to settle into something new.

Let your curb appeal bloom this spring—one step (and one flower pot) at a time. 🌸