Exterior — DO:Pick plants that are evergreen and perennial so your yard always has pops of color.Put in new exterior light fixtures.Add on extra touches like shutters or planter boxes to give your exterior charm.Put a fresh coat of paint on the front door.Keep grass and landscaping healthy and not overgrown.Replace worn-out fencing.DO pay attention to low-cost finishing touches that can make a big difference. Peeling or chipped paint, mildew, exposed insulation or pipe insulation and visible dry rot are small details that your appraiser is sure to notice. If you have a basement, make sure there are no signs of water leaks, moisture or mildew. Visible evidence will get mentioned in the appraiser's report. DON'T try to change your home's style. "Always stay with the style of your home and go with the features that enhance it the most," says Tom Blair of Justin Thomas Appraisal in San Ramon, California.