What do you think about removing the tree that is close and right in front of your house?

What is the budget range for the current changes?

IMo first step have a pathor walkway that actually leads to the front door .

We have a walkway that is parallel to the house to the front door. You can can’t see it from where the picture is taken. I have 2 Japanese maple trees that I will putting somewhere. The two trees directly in the front will be taken out later this year or early next year. We are trying to do the project ourselves for the minimum cost possible. We would like to keep the budget under $500, this of course is without the cost of removing the trees.

With the current $500 budget, I'd spend most of it on compost spread over the grass so it will give it a boost before frost. Ask at the garden center if grass seed should be put down now or in spring. I'd repaint the shutters with the blue paint. If the white painted trim needs a new coat of paint, you can do that, too. Mow and edge around the fence, walkway, and the driveway. Add some big pumpkins on the front porch or wherever the family entrance is.

In winter, I'd plan out some new shrubs (azaleas?) for the front border.

Another option is to find local, wholesale nurseries that offer retail sales on a limited basis. They sell at a severe discount even to retail--I have one near me that has such wonderful shrubs for unbelievable prices. I consider myself very fortunate and I hope you have something similar in your area.

It seems that you have quite a bit of shade in your yard. You can redesign the front yard so that it's more conducive to the shade plants. Hostas, Hydrangeas, Azaleas, and Viburnum can be good options for shady areas. There are several varieties that can add a pop of color to your yard. Hope that helps!

It's been two years. I am going to take the leap you really aren't into the whole yard maintenance thing--very typical these days. What ever you do LOW/NO maintenance should be your #1 priority. A welcoming wide curved cement or paved path to the front door would be a great start.

I agree with others - some of the trees need to go - even in the back yard in order to get more light back there.