Pressure wash the house, roof and drive. See if there is a way to trim back the bushes so you can see the front door.

I agree, trim bushes so door is more inviting. A contrast on the shutters would give interest and appeal.

Yes, trim the shrubbery and painting the shutters isn't a bad idea either. Mom may "freak out" but the object is to make the home appealing to a potential buyer. Your mom may think the color is fine but your objective is to sell. Make the choices that will entice a buyer to make it a family home for the next generation.

Dark shutters would be fine with a lighter wall color. Charleston green and SW Fox are good colors with brick. Please post an "after" photo when you are finished.

I agree with your realtor. I think black would be fabulous!

That planting area is most unusual......I would remove all of it and add a few foundation plantings. Then you can get a better idea of paint colors.

I would remove the round hedge, the shrubs in the middle, flatten the area and then lay sod. You can leave the two shrubs growing next to the house but the one near the door needs sheared. Don't hide the entrance. Paint the door red.

Perhaps, try a different take and lighten the look of the homes.

-before-

-after-

Brighten up the non brick parts of the exterior home with a creamy yellow color and then white trim around windows, white shutters and most importantly a white garage door with an updated window choice. The design of the windows on this garage door pictured below is an up-to-date version of what your Mother presently has on her home.

Access Garage Doors 858.638.0300