Often times when people are planning to sell, they focus on indoor improvement. A home's exterior and backyard are just as important and shouldn't be neglected. You want to make your home as appealing as possible for potential buyers. Here are some of today's trends in outdoor living to help you bring in the buyers:
Outdoor structures
Outdoor structures can make the front and backyard more functional. Something simple, like a storage shed, gazebo or pergola, provides more outdoor living space. These structures boost the function of your home, and therefor increase its value.
Privacy
The outdoor living space is an extension of the home. People are using indoor furniture, adding fireplaces, and even installing televisions outdoors. When they are relaxing outside, individuals want privacy. No one wants to be gawked at when enjoying a drink and watching the game after a long day at work. What does this mean as you are upgrading your outdoor space? If possible, put up walls or choose an enclosed gazebo to ensure privacy.
Outdoor Kitchen
More and more meals are being enjoyed outdoors, and the modern outdoor kitchen includes more than just a grill and picnic table. An outdoor sink, range and even oven will make your home more inviting. Of course, this comes at a cost, but if you have a great outdoor entertaining space, it's worth it!
Outdoor Lighting
Not only does outdoor lighting improve the function of the space, it makes it easier to enjoy the outdoor space even after dark. A well- lit deck lends itself well to summer barbecues and parties that continue after midnight. Good outdoor lighting will make the home inviting at all times of day. Also, it helps improve the security of the property, which may be important to some buyers.
Low-Maintenance Landscaping
Most home sellers know they should improve and upgrade their garden areas, but do so carefully. A lush, yet high-maintenance garden may detract from your home's ability to sell. Many of today's buyers are busy and do not have the time it takes to tend a garden.
When upgrading your landscaping, go as low-maintenance as possible, while still ensuring that the home is attractive. Perennials that grow well in your area can add a splash of color, but do not need to be replanted year after year. Mulch or rock can keep weeds at bay while giving the space a finished look. Automatic watering systems help ensure the plants have enough moisture to thrive, without requiring the owner to keep track of watering schedules. Don't forget to add stone walkways and decorative items to improve the aesthetics of the space, without adding maintenance efforts.
Natural Wood and Stone
Natural wood and stone features on the home -- even if they are made from faux materials like vinyl -- attract the modern buyer. This design trend can make an outdated home look modern on the exterior, causing more buyers to stop and schedule a showing. It can also boost the appeal of a modern home by helping it to stand out from a crowded marketplace.
Fire Pits or Fireplaces
If you have a modest budget, but want to add an outdoor feature that will increase your home's potential value, consider adding a fire pit or outdoor fireplace. You can even do this as a DIY project if you have the time. A fire pit provides a comfortable, logical place for outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying s'mores together as a family.
Permanent Seating
Many homeowners pull out all the stops when it comes to building decks, patios and outdoor entertaining spaces, but forget the most important part -- seating. While you can add seating through outdoor furnishings, this will not add value to the property in the opinion of a buyer. Consider a permanent, built-in seating option, like a bench built into the deck or a picnic table that stays with the property.
Remember, today's buyers still have plenty of houses to choose from. As you prepare yours for the market, be sure to think like a buyer and add features that will make the home as appealing as possible. As you make these improvements, remember to put some attention into your outdoor spaces!