Put down that cup of tea, throw on a coat, and head outdoors to take a good look at your house from the street. Do you see room for improvement? Here are 7 foolproof ways to add curb appeal and make your home look welcoming from now through winter.

Photo by Gil Jacobs

1. Add Glamour to a Gate

Photo by Joseph Valentine

Upgrade the latch on your gate for a homey look.

2. Make a Bird Feeder

Photo by Erin Boyle

A DIY bird feeder made from a grapefruit half will lure feathered friends to the window—and give you something better to do with a grapefruit half than to throw it away.

3. Buy a Bird Feeder

Photo by Liv Unni Sødem via Flickr

Looking for something a little more classic? Find a bird feeder at your local garden store.

4. Add Handsome House Numbers

Photo by Till Westermayer via Flickr

Is there an ugly font above your door? Chances are it’s more noticeable–and annoying–during winter months.

5. Plant Snow Flowers

Photo by Natalia Medd via Flickr

Plant snowdrops, hellebores, and early narcissi in the garden.  Plant a few clumps at the edge of the path for winter color.

6. Stop Tracking Mud

Photo courtesy of Hallowell Co.

Invest in a boot scraper for that pesky winter mud.

7. Leave the Lights on

Photo by John Merkl

Leave your holiday lights up until February.