Every January through March, we see a predictable pattern: homeowners who plan to list in late spring or summer call Julian Landscaping Services for a “what should I tackle first?” consultation. They want maximum curb appeal without pouring tens of thousands into major remodels. By contrast, we also hear from sellers who need their yard market‑ready next week. Whether you’re months out or days away, the same focused improvements deliver the best bang for the buck.

Below are the eight upgrades we’re recommending most often this year, based on what we see working across dozens of recent listings. Each suggestion is (1) affordable, (2) doable on a normal timeline—or an accelerated one if needed—and (3) backed by data that shows real returns when the “For Sale” sign goes up.

1. Give the Lawn a Professional‑Grade Makeover

Why it matters

• 61 % of buyers rank a healthy, weed‑free lawn as curb‑appeal factor #1, while 68 % say poor turf is a deal‑breaker (AHS 2025 Survey).

• A standard lawn‑care package (~$415) returns 217 % at resale (NAR Remodeling Impact Report 2023).

DIY Action Steps for the Pacific Northwest (PNW):

• Mow at 2.5 – 3 in. and avoid cutting more than ⅓ of the blade. If you're mowing yourself, don't forget to sharpen blades at least once a year (twice if you want to best results).

• From May – September - a rule of thumb we recommend to clients is that if its hot outside, a 10-15 min light shower will make a huge difference to keep the area looking green

• Apply slow‑release fertilizer three to four times a year (don't confuse this with starter fertilizer).

• Spot‑spray broadleaf weeds; avoid blanket herbicide in temps over 80 °F

• Aerate and overseed thin patches in March/April or September/October

Turnaround time: one growing season for full lushness, but a single mow + edge + fertilizer application makes an immediate visual impact for last‑minute sellers.

2. Refresh Beds with Bark or Mulch

Even if bark or mulch is laid over weed-preventive fabric, it will naturally decompose over time. As it breaks down, it can create conditions where weeds begin to grow. To maintain both its weed-suppressing effectiveness and fresh appearance, periodic refreshment is recommended.

Why it matters

• Landscape cleanup plus new mulch delivers 104 % ROI (NAR 2023).

• Fresh mulch alone can add about $4,500 in perceived value (Better Homes & Gardens)

DIY Action Steps:

• Weed and rake out faded mulch

• Edge beds with a clean 2‑in. trench. If you have a string trimmer, you can use that to get a near professional edge also.

• Spread 2–3 in. of dark hemlock or medium bark (WSU Sustainable Landscaping). The darker colors are trending this 2025 season.

Turnaround time: 3–6 hours for an average front yard; ideal for “next weekend” projects.

3. Power‑Wash & Deep‑Clean Hard Surfaces

Why it matters

• 57 % of buyers consider a dirty exterior a red flag; power‑washing can add up to $15 k in perceived value (Prestige STL)

DIY Action Steps - always start with a lower pressure to avoid any long-term damage:

• Pressure‑wash driveway and walks at 3,000 PSI; pretreat moss first

• Rinse siding with ≤ 2,000 PSI and a wide fan nozzle

• Target cleaning decks, porches, and windows for photo‑ready sparkle

Turnaround time: one afternoon of DIY or a half‑day professional visit

4. Trim Trees & Shrubs for Clean Lines

Why it matters

• Pro tree care returns 87 % of cost (NAR 2023)

• Overgrown trees deter 36 % of buyers (AHS 2025) causing doubt and concern about long-term maintenance of the property

DIY Action Steps:

• Lift tree canopies to 8 ft over sidewalks and drives

• Keep hedges below window height; shape twice a year

• Remove dead or crossing branches

Turnaround time: 1–2 days for an average yard; critical when branches block the listing photo.

5. Add Seasonal Color at the Entry

Why it matters

• Attractive plantings raise perceived home value 5 – 11 % (MSU Extension)

DIY Action Steps:

• Plant frost‑hardy pansies or violas in early spring; switch to petunias or marigolds once soil warms

• Echo flower hues with the front door or porch décor

• Deadhead weekly and water consistently

Turnaround time: 1–2 hours and $75 – $150 in materials depending on on the types of plants selected from your local hardware or nursery

6. Upgrade to LED Landscape Lighting

Why it matters

• Outdoor lighting yields a 59 % cost recovery and tops owners’ “joy” scores (NAR 2023)

DIY Action Steps:

• Install a 12 V LED path‑light kit (warm 2,700 K color)

• Uplight one signature tree or architectural feature

• Use a dusk‑to‑midnight smart timer or photocell

• Cost-effective alternative: solar-powered lighting from your local hardware store

Turnaround time: A motivated DIYer can finish in a weekend; pros can do it in one evening

7. Define Borders with Simple Hardscaping

Why it matters

• Small-scale hardscaping—like crisp edging—ranks #2 on buyers’ favorite curb‑appeal features (AHS 2025)

DIY Action Steps:

• Edge beds with 4 × 8 in. concrete pavers set on compacted gravel.

• Fill walkway cracks with polymeric sand and seal.

• Add a gravel drainage strip along foundation walls

Turnaround time: one day for edging; 2–3 days for a small paver patio

8. Tune Up (or Install) a Smart Irrigation System

Why it matters

• Irrigation upgrades return 83 % of cost (NAR 2023) and save ≈ 15,000 gal of water per year (EPA WaterSense )

DIY Action Steps:

• Replace clogged heads and fix leaks

• Install a WaterSense‑labeled smart timer with rain‑skip

• Blow out lines or open auto‑drain valves before November frost

Turnaround time: same‑day tune‑up; 1–2 days for a new controller install

Make the First Impression Count with Julian  Landscaping  Services

Our crews specialize in:

• “Listing‑Ready” makeovers for last‑minute sellers

• Multi‑month curb‑appeal plans that start as early as January

• Ongoing maintenance for homeowners, HOAs, and property managers

We are licensed, bonded, and insured, serving Burien, Normandy Park, Des Moines, and surrounding Greater Seattle communities.