When it comes to selling your home in 2025, first impressions matter more than ever. With inventory still tight across the Seattle metro area—including hot spots like Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Everett, and beyond—buyers are moving quickly, but they’re also pickier. That means curb appeal can make or break the sale.
At Grant Team Properties RE/MAX Elite, we know what makes homes stand out in the Pacific Northwest. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners make smart upgrades that attract more buyers and increase the final sale price. Here are the top 8 exterior improvements you should consider to get the most bang for your buck when selling your home in 2025.
1. Refresh Your Landscaping
In the lush, green Pacific Northwest, buyers expect a tidy, well-maintained yard. Overgrown shrubs, patchy grass, or a lack of color can be turn-offs. The good news is a complete yard overhaul is almost never necessary! A quick tune up often does the trick.
What to do:
- Add seasonal flowers (especially in spring and summer)
- Reseed or sod patchy lawns
- Trim trees and bushes
- Use bark or mulch to create clean borders
ROI Potential: High. Landscaping is consistently one of the top returns on investment for home sellers.
2. Repaint or Replace the Front Door
The front door is a focal point. A fresh, modern color can signal that the rest of the home is well cared for.
What to do:
- Choose a bold but tasteful color (navy, red, or black work well in this region)
- Upgrade to a steel or solid wood door for extra impact
ROI Potential: Excellent. A relatively low outlay in real estate dollars can make a big impression.
3. Upgrade Outdoor Lighting
In the Seattle area, shorter daylight hours mean exterior lighting plays a big role in how your home looks during evening showings.
What to do:
- Install warm, energy-efficient LED lighting
- Add pathway lights or uplights on trees or architectural features
- Make sure porch lights are clean and functional
ROI Potential: Moderate to high, with added safety and visual appeal.
4. Pressure Wash Driveways and Walkways
Moss and grime are common issues in the damp Northwest climate, but they’re easy to remedy and make a huge visual difference.
What to do:
- Rent a pressure washer or hire a professional
- Clean sidewalks, driveways, patios, and fences
ROI Potential: High. This inexpensive upgrade can drastically improve your home’s perceived condition.
5. Add a Pop of Color with Planters and Outdoor Decor
Small touches like potted plants, a new welcome mat, or stylish patio furniture can make your home feel warm and inviting.
What to do:
- Use weather-resistant containers
- Incorporate native plants for low maintenance
- Coordinate colors with your home’s exterior palette
ROI Potential: Moderate, but very helpful in photographs and first impressions.
6. Upgrade Garage Doors
In many Lynnwood and Snohomish County homes, the garage door is a major front-facing feature. A new or painted garage door can instantly modernize a home.
What to do:
- Paint or refinish to match trim or door color
- Consider a replacement with modern panels or windows
ROI Potential: Very high. According to Remodeling Magazine, garage door replacements have one of the highest returns.
7. Repair or Replace the Roof (If Needed)
Buyers in the Seattle area are very cautious about roof condition due to frequent rain and moss build-up.
What to do:
- Have a pre-inspection to assess the roof condition
- Clean and repair minor damage
- Replace if nearing the end of life (20-25 years for asphalt shingles)
ROI Potential: High, especially if you can advertise a “new roof” in your listing.
8. Modernize the House Numbers and Hardware
It’s a small detail, but buyers notice when house numbers, doorbells, and hardware look outdated.
What to do:
- Choose modern, bold fonts for house numbers
- Replace brass or rusted doorknobs and knockers with matte black or brushed nickel
- Ensure hardware matches in color and style
ROI Potential: Moderate, but improves overall cohesiveness and impression.
Final Thoughts: Make Curb Appeal Work for You
Whether you’re in Seattle, Lynnwood, Edmonds, or anywhere in Snohomish or King County, improving your home’s curb appeal is a smart move in 2025. These updates not only attract more buyers but can significantly increase your home’s value and marketability.
The best part? At Grant Team Properties RE/MAX Elite, we don’t just tell you what to fix—we help make it happen. Our team can connect you with trusted local contractors and, in some cases, help finance the cost of upgrades and repairs until closing.
Thinking about selling your home this year? Call Grant Team Properties at 425.483.4200 today and find out how to get top dollar with top-tier curb appeal.