(BPT) - Most people enter their homes through the garage or backdoor, forgetting how the front entrance looks to neighbors and guests. Your front door is often the first thing others notice about your home. That's why it's key to make a positive first impression.

1. Install a new front door. With so many new entry door systems to choose from, ranging from single doors, to double-door options, to those accented with decorative glass, or transoms and sidelights, it's easy to find one that fits your budget and your style.

Sticking with your door? A fresh coat of paint will work wonders. Try a bold color to brighten a neutral color scheme. Alternatively, you can refresh old doors with new hardware. Choose handles and door knockers that complement your home's exterior design.

2. Replace broken or damaged items. Replace broken light fixtures, burned out bulbs and worn out weather-stripping on exterior doors. Ditch that faded wreath, worn out mat, and dead plants, and instead, add a bright new welcome mat and eye-catching seasonal decorations.

3. Polish your porch. Use a little elbow grease and ammonia-free, vinegar-based glass cleaner to wash the windows. Wipe down window and door frames and sweep sills with a dry paint brush or vacuum to remove dirt.

Fill flower boxes or containers with boldly-colored plants to accent your front door. If you've painted your door red, plant red and white or red and purple flowers to create a designer look. Or if you're keen on green doors, try purple or orange flowers for contrast.

4. Illuminate your walkway. Make it easy for others to see the way to your front door at night. Transform and illuminate walkways with easy-to-install solar lights. Stake them in the ground positioned so solar cells get enough southern exposure for sunlight to recharge nightlights during the day.

5. Trim bushes. Landscaping should accent your home, not dominate it. Keep bushes below the bottom sill of your windows to improve your view. Trim or replace overgrown shrubs and trees. Keep plant material trimmed several feet away from your home to minimize damage from wind or insects and eliminate a place for prowlers to lurk.