Technology has transformed the real estate industry.
Today, virtual 3D tours and video showings are nearly as common as in-person open houses. To give your home the best chance of standing out in a competitive market, you need to make a strong first impression online—and that starts with the exterior.
Here are seven tips to boost your home’s digital curb appeal:
1. Declutter the Exterior
Whether prospective buyers are viewing listing photos, a video walkthrough, or a virtual tour, the outside of your home is the first thing they’ll see. Just as you would clean and declutter the interior before a showing, the exterior needs to be neat and tidy too.
Some homeowners maintain a streamlined yard year-round, while others—especially those with children—see toys and gear accumulate outside. Start with these simple steps:
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Remove or repair worn-out furniture
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Toss unused plant pots
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Store away toys and sports equipment
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Get rid of broken lawn ornaments
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Tuck away garbage and recycling bins
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Move vehicles out of the driveway before taking photos
2. Repaint the Doors
While repainting the full exterior may not always be practical or necessary, refreshing the front door can be a quick, affordable way to add instant visual appeal.
If your home is painted in a neutral tone, a colourful front door adds warmth and charm. Consider shades like light blue, olive green, coral—or go bold with black against a white exterior for a timeless, high-contrast look.
3. Invest in Professional Landscaping
Landscaping may not be top of mind for daily life, but it offers a solid return when prepping your home for sale. A professionally landscaped yard enhances curb appeal—especially in listing photos and videos.
Here are a few services a landscaper can provide to elevate your property:
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Plant flowers, shrubs, and trees
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Remove trees or bushes obstructing views
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Trim hedges and prune trees
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Power wash the driveway and walkway
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Install or repair pathways to the entrance
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Consider artificial turf for a green, low-maintenance lawn
4. Take Test Photos and Videos
Lighting, weather, and even the season can affect how your home’s exterior shows online. Before going live with your listing, take test photos and videos to ensure your home looks its best.
What looks great in person might not translate as well on camera. A few test shots can help you pinpoint improvements and set the stage for better listing visuals.
If your REALTOR® plans to offer virtual showings, consider doing a dry run with a friend or family member. Their feedback can highlight things you might overlook as the homeowner, allowing you to fine-tune the virtual experience.
5. Pick the Right Time of Day for Photos
The time of day can dramatically change the look of your home’s exterior in photos and videos. While this matters for indoor shots too, exterior lighting can make or break curb appeal.
Professional photographers will typically recommend the ideal time for a shoot, but you can experiment with lighting throughout the day as well.
Twilight is especially popular for outdoor real estate photos—the soft glow of the sunset adds warmth and elegance. If you’re going for daytime photos, aim for between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when lighting is more consistent and shadows are less harsh.
East-facing homes often look best in the morning, while west-facing homes shine in the afternoon. You can even coordinate your showings or virtual tours around these ideal lighting times.
6. Include Aerial Photos
Drone photography has become a staple in Canadian real estate marketing. Aerial shots showcase your property from new angles and offer valuable context—especially important for out-of-town buyers who may rely heavily on virtual tours.
These images can capture lot size, layout, and nearby green space or amenities far better than ground-level photos. Because drone usage in Canada is regulated by Transport Canada, be sure to hire a licensed operator, often included in a professional real estate photographer’s services.
7. Lead with Your Best Photos
When building your online listing, photo order matters. The first few images set the tone, so be strategic.
Start with a stunning exterior shot. The next couple of photos can highlight curb appeal and outdoor features—but transition quickly to interior highlights like the kitchen or living room to keep buyers engaged.
If you’ve got additional exterior gems to showcase (like a backyard oasis or detached garage), save those for the end. That way, you maintain interest and avoid front-loading your listing with similar visuals.
At Liv Well Group, we know that first impressions are everything—online and in person. In today’s market, digital curb appeal is just as important as the real thing. By decluttering, showcasing your home’s best features, and using high-quality staging and photography, you can capture attention and stand out from the crowd. We’re here to guide you through every step with proven strategies and a personal touch—because selling your home should feel smart, seamless, and well… Liv Well.
