In Chattanooga’s real estate market, fall can be a strategic window: the heat of summer has passed and buyers begin looking before winter arrives. A home that looks well maintained will surely stand out. Locally, there are companies that offer hardscape and grading services (dry creek beds, paver walkways, drainage) that help houses enhance both beauty and function. A few well-chosen upgrades carry more weight than large, generic investments.
1. Landscaping with Plants
When selecting flowers and shrubs, choose species that tolerate the city’s climate and seasonal shifts:
- Hoogendorn Holly (Ilex crenata “Hoogendorn”) — a dense evergreen shrub that works well in full sun or partial shade, ideal for year-round structure.
- Coral Drift Rose — low, spreading, and colorful, great for foundation beds.
- Ornamental grasses (e.g. Adagio Maiden Grass) — strong fall color, texture, and movement in breeze.
- Purple Coneflower, Bee Balm, Coreopsis, Dianthus, Russian Sage, Salvia — these perennials are known to perform well in area gardens and bring vibrant fall color.
- Local native plants — American Beautyberry, Blue Mistflower, Carolina Silverbell, and Inkberry
TIP: Plant in containers near the front porch or along walkways to frame entry paths. Use color contrast (deep purples, golds, rusty oranges) to make your home feel warm and inviting.
2. Hardscape & Outdoor Structures
Good hardscape design not only looks polished but also addresses local terrain, soil, and drainage. Here’s how to leverage it:
- Paver paths, patios, and retaining walls — install walkways suited to sloped landscapes
- Stonework & natural stone blending — incorporate stone, pavers, natural rock, creek beds, and architectural stone
- Dry creek beds & drainage elements — to manage runoff
- Retaining walls & slope support — retaining wall solutions to prevent erosion and create usable garden levels
- Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and lighting features — To make your home welcoming into evening hours, place night light, fire features, and elegant stone elements in its designs.
TIP: During the planning stage, choose materials that age well [native stone, textured pavers, weathered finishes]. Also ensure proper grading so that water drains away from the house foundation.
3. Color, Paint, and Exterior Refresh
- Use fall-friendly accent colors that harmonize with red brick or fieldstone [deep greens, charcoal blues, rust tones].
- Pressure wash siding, brick, and walkways to remove pollen, mildew, and grime (especially after humid summers).
- Touch up trim, shutters, or porch railings so they look fresh against a seasonally changing backdrop.
- Don’t neglect the mailbox, house numbers, and porch lights. Opt for lighting styles common in historic neighborhoods (e.g. Craftsman, Bungalow, traditional lantern styles).
TIP: Add seasonal decors tastefully. Keep your fall décor simple and elegant with a neutral welcome mat, a cozy throw over porch seating, and natural touches like an autumn wreath, potted mums, or stacked pumpkins. These warm accents bring charm without feeling overdone. Remember, your goal is to create an inviting atmosphere and not a Halloween display.
4. Lighting & Evening Appeal
- Add solar path lights along driveways and walkways to guide visitors.
- Use uplights to highlight focal features like specimen trees or stone walls.
- Replace yellow or dim bulbs with warm-tone LEDs for that cozy glow.
- Motion or pathway lights near side and back entries help safety and aesthetics in lower light.
TIP: The rolling terrain creates the perfect backdrop for creative lighting. Upgraded fixtures and subtle uplighting modifies the facade into a welcoming, elegant space after dark.
5. Final Walkthrough from a Buyer’s Eyes
Before any showing, walk your property at dusk and in daylight. Ask yourself:
- Which spot looks dark or uninviting?
- Is anything leaning, broken, or fading?
- Does the walk feel safe and welcoming?
- Would I want to pull in and approach that front door?
TIP: Fixing small things like a crooked gutter, loose step, or burnt-out light can make your home feel truly cared for and add to its appeal.