Welcome signs that say home sweet home

But, according to the experts, we overlook the exterior at our peril. Property analyst for findaproperty.com, Nigel Lewis says: "A property with a well-presented frontage will get up to 50 per cent more inquiries compared with one that looks weathered and worn."

First impressions are key, he points out. "A well-painted front-door, hanging baskets and a smart door mat are only small details but they conjure an instant feelgood factor," he says.

Picking the right shade for a door is as important as picking the right colour for an outfit, says Farrow & Ball director Sarah Cole.

"Classic colours such as black and red are still incredibly smart for front doors. Some of our most popular colours include dark Carriage Green, a bright Hague Blue and Off-Black."

Face up to a facelift:

"Stand back from your house and pretend you're a stranger looking at it for the first time. Make a list of all the things that need doing," says TV DIY expert, Tommy Walsh.

He suggests jobs such as washing down wooden paintwork. Cleaning or painting plastic framework on uPVC windows and making sure gutters aren't clogged.

Best buys: If cast-iron gutters and downpipes are beyond repair, try the new Elegance Rainwater system from Polypipe. It resembles cast iron but is lightweight, doesn't need painting and is easy to install. Alternatively, revamp existing pipework by applying International Drainpipe and Gutter paint (12.69 for 750ml). Or a Permaclear Stayclean spray (5.99, ShopAway) to freshen up uPVC windows and doors.

Doors for divas:

Start by removing all door furniture, he says, then use sugar soap and water to clean the door and frame. Sand the painted surface with fine sand-paper and then wipe with a cloth dampened with white spirit to remove any dust, so it's ready for an undercoat.

Apply with a good quality 2in brush and allow eight to 16 hours for the first coat to dry. When it's dry, lightly sand down using a super fine flour paper, to remove any nibs (bits), wipe down surface with white spirit. Apply a second undercoat, then topcoat, repeating process between coats.

Best Buys: Dulux Weather-shield Exterior Gloss paint (12.99 for 750ml). International 10 Year Exterior Paint (13.99 for 750ml) and International's UPVC primer and paint (10.69 for 750ml).

Light fantastic:

"If the only light at an entrance is a security light, not only is it unfriendly and glaring, but it also makes visitors feel like trespassers," says Sally Storey, design director at John Cullen Lighting.

"Framing the door with two wall lights or an overhead lantern makes a far more welcoming approach. You could also emphasise the main architectural features with LED uplights."

Best Buys: John Cullen's Oslo External (144) can be set in a wall or try an Adjustable Spiked Spot (78) to pop in a flowerbed or border next to the house.

Revive railings:

Chipped paintwork on metal or wooden fences and gates sends out the wrong message, points out Tommy Walsh.

"Although repainting is an easy DIY task, the correct preparation is key," he advises. "Remove flaky paint and rust with a wire brush and sand down any imperfections. Always use a dedicated exterior metal paint."

Best Buys: Hammerite Hammered Exterior Metal Paint (7.99 for 3.50ml). For wooden gates or fencing try Sandtex One Coat Exterior Gloss Paint Brilliant White (25.98 for 2.5 litres) from B&Q.

Glamorous Garden: Greenery and foliage add another dimension to a frontage. Plant straight into the ground if you can, but if there are only hard surfaces use pots – the larger the better. Generally, small pots are better suited to patios and intimate areas.

A well-maintained hedge or planted shrubs is better as a boundary between the home and the street, rather than a wall or fence.

Best Buys: The Chelsea Gardener's selection of window boxes and pots, includes a Goi Art Deco terracotta window box (40.50). Or B&Q's planted hanging basket is a snip at 12.98.