I would embrace the element, but I would get rid of the wood chips. I'm thinking back fist sized river rocks. Then I would get a tallish flowering tropical such as hibiscus and add a few ivy plants to grow between the rocks. Additionally, a small water feature might be nice. For me, the bigger problem with the entryway is the door. You have an obviously contemporary home, yet you have a -very- traditional door. I would want a wood door with some sort of art glass element in it. The wood would of course need to be stained to match the existing woodwork. The door will be some big bucks, but it would remain regardless of flooring changes. These two doors are not specific recommendations, but examples of the type of entry door I have in mind. Best wishes!

Thanks for the replies! My wife suggested we talk to a local real estate agent, so i think that is a good idea... just that Im not sure how helpful they are likely to be if we arent selling yet :) As for saving for our dream house, I dont disagree, however if doing this up nicely over the next ~5 years or so while we live here nets us some extra in the eventual sale, then that of course will help us as well. Interesting thing happened today actually. I got a knock on the door and one of the older neighbours asked if he could take some lemons from the tree. I of course said yes. Anyway he was telling me he had lived in the street for 40 years. I asked him if the house had always looked like this, and he said no that ~30 years ago the old old owner did a massive renovation and pulled off the timber and put up the bricks and gutted the inside of the house. Interesting stuff!

This made me laugh: http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/jun/09/seagull-turns-orange-after-falling-into-vat-of-chicken-tikka-masala I couldn't copy the picture, but it's hilarious.

Hi Geonin, the first thing that I would do is go through your house and de-clutter everything then ensure that everything is spotless and in good condition (pay special attention to the things that you know buyers will look at and things that are touched/handled every day as well as things like appliances and doors - make sure that nothing screams "repair bill"). The second thing to think about is paint and flooring - if your carpet is in good condition have it cleaned otherwise think about replacing it (expensive but poor carpet is seen as a big expense to buyers - particularly if its their first property). Paint your walls a colour that is as light as you can to make your property bigger but remember to tone it in with the carpet and keep your trims neutral (white/black) that will compliment your walls and carpet. Remember lighting and soft furnishings can change the whole look of your home too. During the open house/inspection phase - touches of home will help: smells like fresh perked coffee or baking are always inviting (you can boil some water with a stick of cinnamon and orange slices - just hide the evidence before you leave the house); if your inspections are late in the afternoon, turn on table and floor lamps inside and outdoor lights that'll add warmth.