First impressions matter—especially in real estate. Whether you're preparing to sell or simply want to elevate your home's exterior, enhancing curb appeal is one of the most impactful ways to boost value and pride of ownership.
And in a place as beautiful as Long Beach, California, there's no better backdrop for showing off your home’s full potential.
Here’s your updated 2025 guide to maximizing curb appeal—tailored for our unique Southern California lifestyle.
1. Start With a Clean Slate
A clean, well-maintained exterior instantly signals that your home is cared for. Start by:
Power washing walkways, siding, and driveways
Cleaning gutters and downspouts
Removing cobwebs from eaves and porch areas
Pro Tip: Long Beach’s salty air can speed up wear—regular rinsing keeps your exterior materials looking fresh longer.
2. Refresh Landscaping With Native Plants
Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance landscaping is not only eco-friendly—it’s smart. Consider:
Adding pops of color with California-native flowers
Trimming overgrown shrubs and trees
Installing fresh mulch or decorative gravel
Local Resource: Check out Long Beach’s Lawn-to-Garden program for rebates and ideas on sustainable landscaping.
3. Upgrade Your Front Door + Hardware
Your front entry is a focal point. A new coat of paint or updated house numbers can work wonders. For a bigger impact:
Paint the front door a bold, inviting color
Replace dated lighting fixtures with modern, coastal-inspired designs
Upgrade the doorbell and locks for both style and security
4. Light It Up
Outdoor lighting does more than boost safety—it enhances architectural features and creates a warm welcome.
Install solar or LED landscape lighting along paths
Add uplighting for trees or your home's façade
Replace tired porch lights with fresh fixtures in brushed brass or matte black
5. Consider Small, Stylish Touches
Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference:
A new welcome mat
Seasonal potted plants or succulents
Coordinated patio furniture or a porch swing
Make it feel like a destination—not just a doorway.
6. Showcase the SoCal Lifestyle
In Long Beach, outdoor living is part of the appeal. Extend that vibe to the front of your home by:
Creating a cozy sitting area on the porch
Adding decorative surfboards, nautical elements, or palm planters
Displaying soft, coastal colors and textures throughout your exterior
Ready to Sell? Curb Appeal Can Make or Break a Sale
A well-staged exterior can be the difference between a drive-by and a scheduled showing. If you're thinking about selling, let’s talk strategy. I specialize in Long Beach real estate and know how to highlight what buyers are looking for today.
Let’s get your home market-ready with curb appeal that sells.
Ginette Skelton, REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker Realty
📲 562-225-5658
Resident Realtor & Local Expert
