Trending Exterior Home Renovation Ideas

Want to boost your home’s curb appeal but don’t know where to start? A 2024 report from the National Association of Realtors says 68% of homeowners regret skipping exterior upgrades before selling. Whether you’re a 20-something fixing up your starter home or a 60-something refreshing your forever house, these trending exterior home renovation ideas will make your place stand out—without breaking the bank. This guide is for the 20–60 crowd looking to modernize their home’s look, add value, and feel proud every time they pull into the driveway.

Why Exterior Renovations Are Worth It

Last summer, my neighbor’s faded siding and cracked walkway made their house look tired. After a few smart upgrades, it’s now the envy of the block—and worth $30,000 more, according to their realtor. Exterior renovations aren’t just about looks; they protect your home, save energy, and boost resale value. 

Top Exterior Home Renovation Ideas

1. Bold Front Door Colors

A vibrant front door is an instant facelift—affordable and high-impact.

Why it’s trending:

• Pops of color like emerald green, navy blue, or coral are huge, per Houzz.
• It’s a DIY-friendly project costing $200–$500.

How to nail it:

• Choose a hue that complements your siding (e.g., blue door with gray exterior).
• Use high-gloss paint for durability and shine.
• Add modern hardware like a sleek handle or smart lock.

Pro tip: Check out Sherwin-Williams for weather-resistant paints. (We may earn a commission if you click.)

Mistake to avoid: Don’t skip primer—it’s key for a smooth, lasting finish.

2. Mixed-Material Siding

Combining materials like wood, brick, and metal is a 2025 favorite for texture and depth.

Why it’s hot:

• Adds visual interest without a full siding overhaul.
• Durable options like fiber cement are low-maintenance, per This Old House.

How to do it:

• Pair vertical wood panels with stone accents for a modern vibe.
• Use metal trim for a sleek, industrial edge.
• Budget $5,000–$15,000 for partial updates, depending on home size.

Real story: My cousin swapped half her vinyl siding for brick veneer. Cost $8,000, but her home’s value jumped $20,000.

Quick win: Start with a single accent wall to test the look.

3. Energy-Efficient Windows

New windows save money and look sharp, with black or bronze frames leading the pack.

Why it’s trending:

• Energy-efficient models cut heating costs by up to 15%, says Energy Star.
• Bold frames add a contemporary edge.

How to pull it off:

• Look for double- or triple-pane windows with Low-E coatings.
• Expect $500–$1,500 per window, installed.
• Check for rebates on EnergyStar.gov.

Expert insight: “Black-framed windows are huge for modern homes, but ensure proper sealing to avoid leaks,” says contractor Elena Martinez, with 10 years in renovations.

Don’t do this: Skip cheap windows—they’ll cost more in repairs and energy bills.

4. Outdoor Living Spaces

Patios, decks, and fire pits are transforming backyards into year-round hangouts.

Why it’s big:

• 82% of buyers want outdoor spaces, per the National Association of Home Builders.
• Adds usable square footage for $2,000–$20,000.

How to make it yours:

• Build a composite deck for low maintenance.
• Add a pergola or string lights for ambiance.
• Include a fire pit for under $500 with DIY kits from Home Depot.

Case study: Sarah, a 35-year-old teacher, spent $10,000 on a deck and pergola. Her home sold for $25,000 above asking, thanks to the backyard wow factor.

Hack: Start small with a paver patio if a full deck’s out of reach.

5. Smart Landscaping

Low-maintenance, eco-friendly yards are stealing the show.

Why it’s trending:

• Native plants and xeriscaping cut water bills by 30%, per the EPA.
• Smart irrigation systems save time and money.

How to do it:

• Plant native shrubs or drought-tolerant grasses.
• Install a smart sprinkler like Rachio ($150–$300).
• Add mulch or gravel for a polished look.

Emotional hook: I used to dread mowing my lawn every weekend. Switching to native plants gave me my Saturdays back—and a yard that looks killer.

Mistake to avoid: Don’t overdo trendy plants that won’t thrive in your climate.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Permits: Check local codes for decks, windows, or siding changes.
• ROI: Focus on upgrades with high resale value, like windows or siding.
• Contractors: Hire licensed pros for big jobs—use HomeAdvisor to find vetted ones.

Gut check: Don’t rush into trends that don’t fit your home’s style or your budget. A cohesive look beats a flashy mismatch.