Your home’s entry isn’t just a means to an end: It’s everyone’s first impression. At the end of a long day, it can be wonderful to pull up to your house and instantly feel welcomed and comforted by an appealing entryway.

These simple upgrades can have you feeling right at home before you even step foot inside.

Install Some Security Features

You may not enhance your home’s aesthetic with some security upgrades, but it will certainly bode well for your peace of mind. Nowadays, home security is fast, easy and entirely affordable. Upgrade your hardware like deadbolts and more secure options like security doors—but don’t stop there.

Smart locks that can be activated from your smartphone, along with home surveillance cameras that you can watch anywhere so long as you have internet access, are all the rage and fantastic ways to protect your property.

Upgrade Your Door

You can completely replace your door with a newer or better model that completely transforms your home’s exterior. Breathtaking entry doors with detailed woodwork, glass and even custom lighting can do remarkable things for your home decor. A good door can also increase your home’s insulation, saving you money on your heating and cooling costs.

Showcase Your Personality with Color

If you don’t have the budget for a total overhaul, simply painting your front door a bold new color can do wonders for your entryway. Even from the street, a fresh coat of paint in an eye-catching hue like fire-engine red or earthy green

Make sure you get in touch with your local homeowner’s association before you decide to paint your front door sunshine yellow. Many HOAs have a list of colors that they do and do not allow.

Add a Touch of Coziness

Outdoor chairs, a cute bench or even a porch swing can instantly make your home’s entrance more inviting. Use some potted plants or cheerful flowers to decorate the space and make visitors feel instantly welcome. A nice doormat with a heartfelt greeting or witty slogan can truly personalize your space right from the start.

No matter what your taste, focus on the key areas of your entryway. Take full advantage of a spacious lawn, winding pathway or porch space to truly customize your home and make it feel entirely yours.

Remember to go easy on furniture and avoid placing any valuables that could be stolen. Instead, use color and texture as your primary tools to create a home entry decor that’s original and inspiring.