Creating curb appeal is an important factor in real estate. In fact, it can increase home value by as much as 17%. But it can be challenging to achieve in the cold weather months. Here is a list of to-dos from the TurfMutt Foundation and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) that can help sellers create a good first impression, even when the temperatures drop.

Focus on safety. Make sure buyers can safely get into your home by keeping the walkways, stairs and driveway clear of snow, ice and wet, slippery leaves. A snow thrower can make easy work of this tedious task.

Showcase winter plants. Utilize evergreen and cold weather plants like holly, pansies and witch hazel in patio pots and flower beds to add life to the landscape. A live wintergreen wreath is also a nice touch.

Give the lawn some love. Keep leaves and debris cleared off the lawn. A carpet of dormant grass gives a better impression (and hint of what’s to come in spring) than dead leaves and twigs.

Prune shrubs & trees. Don’t wait until an ice or snowstorm hits to tend to the trees in your yard. Prune your plants, trees and shrubs now for a tidy look that will also keep branches from snapping off due to snow and ice.

Organize your outdoor power equipment. Store your outdoor power equipment neatly in the garage, de-clutter the space and give it a good clean. A tidy garage looks bigger and more inviting…and bigger!

Add bird feeders. Create a natural, serene scene (and support pollinators at the same time) by installing a bird feeder or a bird garden. A blue jay or cardinal makes a striking image against a winter scene.

Clean gutters. Clean gutters and downspouts signal to potential buyers that your home is well-maintained. A leaf blower can be a handy tool for the job.