By Adam Chubbuck
Navy Veteran | #18 Ranked Maryland Realtor (54 Sales, $28M+ Volume in 2025)
Team Leader – Team Alpha Charlie at Douglas Realty | Top 0.5% Statewide
Buyers decide if they love your home in the first 8 seconds—before they even step inside. That’s why making the entry feel inviting is one of the smartest, lowest-cost upgrades for Maryland sellers in 2026. Clean or repaint the front door, update hardware, and add tasteful décor to welcome buyers from the moment they arrive. This simple refresh creates instant emotional connection and boosts perceived value.
As Maryland’s #18 Realtor, I’ve seen refreshed entries help homes in Anne Arundel County sell faster (my team’s average: 6 days on market) and for more (102% of list price). In competitive areas like Pasadena, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, and Annapolis, an inviting front door stands out amid rising inventory.
Why the Entryway Matters More Than Ever in Maryland’s 2026 Market
– Curb Appeal Drives Offers: Bright MLS data shows homes with strong first impressions get 20–30% more showings.
– Low Cost, High ROI: $300–$800 investment often returns $2K–$5K+ in sale price.
– Buyer Psychology: A welcoming door says “well-maintained home” — key in buyer-friendly 2026 with rates in the low-6% range.
Step-by-Step: Refresh Your Entry for Maximum Impact
- Clean Thoroughly: Power wash siding/door, sweep porch, trim bushes—remove any clutter.
- Repaint the Door: Bold yet neutral colors like navy, black, or deep green pop in Maryland’s neighborhoods. Pro tip: Use exterior-grade paint for Chesapeake humidity.
- Update Hardware: Swap old knobs/knockers for modern matte black or brushed nickel ($50–$150).
- Add Tasteful Décor: Seasonal wreath, symmetric potted plants, new welcome mat, and updated house numbers. Keep it simple—avoid overpersonalizing.
- Light It Up: Add sconces or solar path lights for evening showings.
Quick ROI Table for Maryland Entry Refreshes (2026 Estimates)
| Upgrade | Avg Cost | Potential Value Add | Time on Market Reduction |
| Repaint Front Door | $200–$400 | $1K–$3K | 3–5 days
| New Hardware + Numbers | $100–$250 | $500–$1.5K | 2–4 days
| Décor (Wreath, Plants, Mat) | $150–$300 | $800–$2K | 4–7 days
| Total Refresh | $450–$950| $2.3K–$6.5K | Up to 10 days
Need Help With Your Entry Refresh?
Finding reliable pros for painting or updates in busy Maryland markets isn’t easy. Adam Chubbuck keeps a vetted list of contractors he knows, likes, and trusts—local experts with proven track records in Anne Arundel and Baltimore County. From door repaints in Severn to full curb appeal overhauls in Odenton, Adam connects sellers to teams that deliver quality on time.
“Adam’s contractor painted our entry and updated hardware—our Pasadena home sold in 3 days for $35K over asking!” – Sarah M.
Ready to make your entry irresistible? Text “ENTRY” to 443-347-6692 for Adam’s free “2026 Curb Appeal Checklist” and contractor recommendations.
— Adam Chubbuck
Team Alpha Charlie | Douglas Realty
Serving Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, PG County & Beyond 🇺🇸🏡
P.S. First impressions win sales—start with the door. Let’s make yours unforgettable!
