Brookside Collection Wall Lantern by Progress Lighting

RealSimple.com: Home Upgrades That Pay Off

Check out these 9 eye-catching items will instantly increase your home’s curb appeal, starting with this wall lantern. Illuminate your doorstep with this solid-brass farmhouse-style lantern. Its oversized shade casts a wide glow that lights up a search for a misplaced key or that often-elusive keyhole. Available in three finishes, including antique nickel (shown).

To buy: $71, csnlighting.com.

(Photo: Progress Lighting)

More from this Slideshow

0 of 0

Brookside Collec...

6 Mailbox by Ecc...

This romantic aluminum mailbox, protected with a lock and adorned with a Victorian cherub motif, seems more deserving of handwritten love letters than junk mail and bills. Its rustproof finish is also a boon for exposed entrances. Available in six colors, including white (shown).

To buy: $119, ecco-products.com.

(Photo: Ecco 6)

Centurion Mailbo...

U.S. Postal Service-approval means this classic mailbox is designed to brave the elements just like the unwavering workforce of the USPS. It features a steel-plated shell and a powder-coated weather-resistant finish; a spear-shaped flag alerts the mailman, while a magnetic seal keeps the door closed?and moisture out.

To buy: $167.50, mailboxixchange.com.

(Photo: USM Mailboxes)

Domicile House N...

Mark your territory with these wall-mounted stainless-steel digits. They're bold enough to be seen from across the street, so visitors won't need eagle-eye vision to spot your pad.

To buy: $14 each, chiasso.com.

(Photo: Chiasso)

Egg Birdhouse by...

This adorable earthenware residence hangs from vinyl-coated wire and features a two-inch-long perch for feathered friends. A removable aluminum base pops out for quick cleanup, and a slick, glazed surface prevents even the most determined squirrel from setting up shop. Available in eight colors, including Sun Yellow (shown).

To buy: $135, jschatz.com.

(Photo: J. Schatz)

Ring Doorknocker...

Draw attention to your front door with this solid, forged-brass door knocker. Available in 12 finishes, including polished-chrome (shown), this modern knocker will allow guests to announce their arrival without bruising their knuckles.

To buy: $71.50, capecodbrass.com.

(Photo: Baldwin Hardware)

Georgetown Roset...

For those who are serious about security, this solid forged-brass doorknob and lockset features a pick-resistant dead bolt. Its design?an egg-and-dart border surrounding a pattern of entwined vines?proves you can protect your home and still stay stylish. Available in five finishes, including tarnish-resistant PVD (shown).

To buy: from $255, houseofantiquehardware.com.

(Photo: House of Antique Hardware)

Round Beaded Doo...

Doorbells can make a statement, too. Made of solid brass in six finishes (including antique copper, shown), this charming model is a cover-up for an existing bell. Even though you‚ll hear the same tone, you‚ll spruce up your entryway at little cost.

To buy: from $7, restorationhardware.com.

(Photo: Restoration Hardware)

Oval Lawn Addres...

Whether you’ve got a stately abode worth naming or simply want to say, “The Smiths live here,” make a house a home with this customizable lawn plaque. It’s handcrafted of cast aluminum and features a baked-on rust-resistant finish.

To buy: $104 for one line, homedecorators.com.

(Photo: Home Decorators Collection)

How to Save Mone... Check out these smart ideas, ranging from travel expenses to energy consumption that could save you a bundle.

(Photo: Anna Williams)