6 Things That Make Your Exterior Look Dated and How to Fix Them

“Never judge a book by its cover” – that’s what they say. But when you see the outside of a house with outdated features, peeling paint and lifeless landscaping, what do you think? Most likely that the property has been neglected or stuck in the past. The truth is, no matter how much we try to deny it, first impressions matter – and the outside of your house speaks volumes about what’s inside.

If your home’s exterior is looking a bit dated, a few simple fixes can make a big difference. Let’s take a look at the most common things that make a home look neglected and how to turn them around.

It might seem like a small detail, but your letterbox can have a big impact on how your home is perceived. An old, rusty or faded letterbox can make a property look dated even if the rest of the exterior is well-maintained. Visitors (and potential buyers) notice these small details, and a tired-looking letterbox sends a subtle message that the home hasn’t been fully looked after.

Old-style letterboxes also have another problem: size. Many traditional boxes are small, which means parcels and larger deliveries don’t fit. This can lead to packages being left on the porch, at the door or in other less secure spots. Not only does this look messy, but it’s also a security concern and frustrating for homeowners who shop online.

Replacing your old letterbox with a new one is a simple way to boost your home’s curb appeal. A new letterbox can make your entrance look looked after and updated straight away. There are plenty of options to match your home’s style, from sleek and minimalist to more classic looks, so you can choose one that fits your exterior.

If you get a lot of parcels, consider upgrading to a parcel letterbox. These larger letterboxes are designed to fit small to medium-sized packages securely, so they’re protected from the elements and reduce clutter on your porch. Many modern parcel letterbox models also have locking mechanisms, so you can have peace of mind as a homeowner.

The idea behind these letterboxes is simple but effective. When a delivery arrives, the parcel is placed into the secure compartment through a slot or drop-down door. Once inside the door locks – either automatically or with a key or code – so only the homeowner with the corresponding key or code can retrieve it. It’s a solution that combines safety and convenience, keeps your packages secure, and your entryway tidy.

A beautiful, well-maintained front door says the home is welcoming and inviting. A faded or discoloured door says the house is neglected or old.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to refresh a front door is with a fresh coat of paint. Bold, classic colours like navy, red or green can make a statement, while softer shades like blue, taupe, or sage can be understated and charming. When choosing a colour, consider the style of your home and the tones on the exterior walls.

In addition to painting, updating or replacing door hardware can make a big difference. Loose, old or worn-out handles, knobs, knockers and letterplates can drag down an otherwise fresh door. Choose hardware that matches your door colour and the style of your home – modern finishes work well for contemporary homes, while brass or bronze pieces suit traditional designs.

Nothing makes a home look more dated than an unkempt yard. Overgrown grass, weeds growing through cracks or plants that have seen better days can all give the impression that the whole property has been left to fade. Even if the house itself is in good condition, a messy garden can make the exterior look dated.

Small changes can make a big difference. Mow the lawn, trim hedges and trees and pull out weeds to give your yard a neat, fresh look. Add colour and life with flowers, potted plants or easy-to-care-for greenery. You can also add features like a fire pit or a water fountain to make your garden feel welcoming and inviting.

Outdated, mismatched or poorly placed lights can make a property look neglected or chaotic. For example, old fixtures that no longer work or different styles of lights across the exterior can look disjointed. Poor lighting can also make walkways, gardens, and entrances look less inviting, especially at night.

Start by updating your main fixtures – garage lights and front door sconces – to match the style of your home. Choose lighting that matches the overall exterior design and provides enough light for safety and visibility. In addition to these main lights, consider adding solar lights, lanterns or subtle pathway lighting to highlight flowerbeds, walks and driveways. These add safety and a touch of elegance to your landscaping, making your home look welcoming and polished even in the dark.

Old or outdated numbers can subtly date a property, giving the impression the home hasn’t been updated in years. So if you’ve lived in your home for over a decade or moved into an older house, chances are your house numbers need a refresh.

Update your house numbers. Consider the placement, font style and size of the numbers to make them more visible and stylish. Avoid sticker numbers, which can look cheap or worn over time and go for more modern options like wall-mounted metal or acrylic numbers. Sleek designs can make a statement, while classic styles can work with traditional homes.

Decorative trim and moulding can add character to a home, but too much of it (or too fussy details) can make a property look dated. For example, excessive gingerbread trim or elaborate moulding gives a Victorian feel that may not be suitable for a house that isn’t that old.

Simplifying the trim is an easy way to modernise your home’s exterior. Clean, simple trim in contrasting colours can highlight architectural features without feeling cluttered, keeping it classic, polished and fresh. Even small changes like removing fussy moulding or repainting trim in a bold yet complementary colour can make a big difference in updating the overall look.

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