Curb Appeal for Under $100
By: Sara Fritz
When people think about improving curb appeal, they often assume it requires a major landscaping proect or thousands of dollars in updates. The truth? Some of the best first impressions can be created for under $100 and often in just one weekend.
In Delco, summer is the perfect time to give your home’s exterior a little refresh, whether you are preparing to sell or simply want to love the way your home looks when you pull into the driveway.
One of the easiest upgrades is adding fresh plants or flowers to your front entry. Local favorites like Wolff's Apple House off Pennell Road in Media and Miller's Greenhouses in Wallingford are great places to find colorful annuals, hanging baskets, herbs, or planters that instantly make a home feel more welcoming. Even two matching pots by the front door can dramatically elevate the look of your entrance.
Another budget-friendly project? Paint your front door. A fresh coat of paint can completely change the personality of a home. Navy blue, deep green, black, or even a cheerful pop of color can create a polished and intentional look for less than the cost of a dinner out. Add updated hardware if your budget allows, and suddenly the entire front entry feels new.
One trend we continue to love is the “layered” welcome mat look. Start with a larger patterned outdoor rug and place a smaller seasonal or personalized welcome mat on top. It creates texture, warmth, and a designer-inspired feel without costing much. Pair that with a lantern, a few potted plants, or even a simple wreath, and your front porch instantly feels more inviting.
If you are looking for inspiration, social media is full of creative curb appeal ideas that are realistic and affordable. A couple of accounts worth checking out include:
• The Inspired Room for classic, approachable home styling
• Chris Loves Julia for DIY-friendly exterior updates
• Blushing Boho for more advanced DIY Coastal Chic
The best part about curb appeal is that small changes really do make a big impact. Whether you are welcoming guests, neighbors, or potential buyers, creating a warm first impression does not have to break the bank.
And now we want to know:
What is your favorite inexpensive curb appeal upgrade? Fresh flowers, painted doors,
porch decor, or something else entirely?
About the Author
Sara Fritz
Sara brings her real estate clients a unique value and perspective. Her professional career path began as a registered nurse and evolved into healthcare analytics and project management. Throughout her nursing experience, Sara learned to work closely and effectively with others during stressful and often tenuous times in their life. Her work in business analytics has honed her ability to capture and quantify customer needs in order to help them make more informed decisions and to understand the market. Sara’s management experience supports her ability to build trust and communicate effectively which ensures seamless and successful real estate transactions for her clients. Sara maintains her nursing license and enjoys working as a nurse on a per diem basis at a local assisted living community.
As a lifelong DELCO resident and top-producing agent at Compass, Sara brings more than just real estate expertise—she brings heart, hustle, and an unwavering commitment to her clients. Whether you're reimagining how and where you want to live, relocating to be closer to family, or preparing your home for sale, Sara’s guidance is rooted in empathy, strategy, and deep local knowledge. As a founding member of NextPhase DELCO, she believes every transition deserves trusted support and a personal touch.