If you are the renter and the things are left from 2012 when Google took the photo, remove everything from the front porch except the evergreen in the big pot. Add seasonal red decorations to the evergreen and move it near the front door. In spring, add a $15 windsock or $20 worth of blooming annuals in a pot.

If you are the landlord, plan to get the shrubs pruned to one foot below the window ledge at the appropriate time of year.

Containers for the Winter Season · More Info

I'd ask the landlord if you can paint the front door a fab color AND install shutters flanking that front window. You could go to the Habitat reStore to find some lovely old shutters. Could you create a little seating area right in front? If so, use large scale outdoor chairs (they don't have to be expensive). There are a lot of little things in front of that little house, making it look little! But it's cute as a button.

Concentrate on the inside and let your guests be wowed by the contrast. Talk to the landlord and see how much they might be willing to do as far a planting shrubs or trimming back the one in front of the window.

If you are renting I wouldn't be spending a whole lot of money without the landlords ok. Also, if you ask, maybe he will do something.

Thank you for the good ideas. I like the idea of the shutters and painted door. Would you paint them to match? Any suggestions for colors? I also love the oversized chair suggestion. Would you have a picture you could point me to, (I'm not exactly sure what you mean.) Many thanks!