Whether you are preparing your home for an open house or simply want to give your front entry a makeover, you can often find low-cost solutions to update your home's appearance and give potential buyers a positive first impression. Home-improvement retailer Lowe's recommends the following quick fixes:

• Plant small trees or shrubs. For added effect, choose something fragrant such as tea olive.
• Flank the entry way with planters and then change out the plants each season for fresh splashes of color.
• Add lighting along the path leading to the entry. For a more eco-friendly option, choose fixtures with solar panels. The sun charges them during the day for nighttime lighting.

• Paint the door in a bright, appealing color to create an instant focal point.
• Install upgraded light fixtures and set out a new doormat.
• Put a kickplate on the front door to add some elegance and to help prevent scuffs and dents.
• Replace the door hardware and doorbell and coordinate the finish with your lighting and kickplate.
• To dress up a plain porch and steps, stain the concrete. To give the appearance of stone, combine two stain colors.
• Add house numbers, and choose large digits so guests can easily read them.