When it comes to home improvements, it’s natural to want to make your space comfier. However, it’s also important to consider how that will affect the resale value when you come to sell.
Homes with desirable outdoor features, on average, sell around 39 per cent faster than homes without. Patio bars and kitchens can add up to 14.9% to the selling price too.
With figures like these, it’s definitely worth considering what will boost your value when adding outdoor improvements. For more home DIY tips and ideas, visit Organized Work Tips.
Top Outdoor Improvements
Before you make any changes to your outdoor space, it’s good to take stock of what you have.
Do you have good views from your property? Don’t obscure them.
Make sure the space is free of clutter. Throw away anything you don’t need, and clean items that are in sight.
1. Landscaping
Giving good curb appeal is probably one of the best ways to increase the value of your home. This is because first impressions are important – if a potential buyer loves a home on sight, they’ll eagerly see more.
Just adding the word “landscaping” to your listing, can add up to 2.7 per cent to the sale price. The good news is that you can do a lot of the work yourself, without hiring extra help.
- Keep edges trimmed
Make sure that any bushes don’t obstruct the first-floor windows.
- Xeriscape in drought-prone areas
If you’re in an arid climate, or near the desert, then a garden that needs less water is ideal.
You can create an interesting design that is very pleasing to the eye with:
- Stones
- Succulents
- Cacti
to create an impact.
If you are planting colorful flowers, then dark brown mulch really makes the color pop.
Whatever design you manifest for your garden, communicate clearly to a landscaping contractor, linked here, and get ready to enjoy your tea time shortly in your desired settings.
2. Outdoor storage space
Most people use their outdoor space to store items such as:
- Bicycles
- Toys
- Gardening tools
The important thing is to have these hidden from sight and also protected from the elements. Most people use a shed, although garden sheds have been surging in price over the past few years.
You can construct your own outdoor building, which gives you more flexibility on price and size. It helps to choose something durable that will stand the test of time, whether that’s long winters or humid summers.
3. Outdoor decking or patio
When you add a deck to the home, potential buyers view it as like adding another room. In regions where you get plenty of warm weather, people like to entertain outdoors, so it’s invaluable.
If you can, match the décor or coloring to the interiors, so it appears like a seamless transition to outdoors.
Of course, in some areas, you need permits for decking, so a patio is a good alternative. If you’re selling, make sure that the patio or decking is freshly painted.
4. Fencing
If you don’t have a fence, consider adding one. Not only do they provide an added layer of privacy, but they look good when they’re fresh. Click on the link to learn more about the different types of fences you can choose from that will help to increase your curb appeal.
Most areas make it easy to install a fence. Do check about height requirements and ensure you’re not obstructing a neighbor’s view. If you don’t have the tools or the experience to install a fence, you can get in touch with timberridgefencecompany.com.
When it comes to selling, make sure the paint isn’t flaky or chipped.
5. Outdoor lighting
Adding some lights to your driveway adds a little romance to the setting. Not only that, but it also stops people from stumbling into your beautiful landscaping.
This doesn’t mean floodlights, more like solar lamps along the pathway. If you need something more technical, it’s best to call in a professional.
Outdoor lighting design usually starts at around $1,500. Reports say that most people make up to 100% ROI when it comes to selling their homes with outdoor lighting.
Improving your outdoor space is a win-win, as you get to enjoy the benefits as well as add value. Make sure that you make the most of the space you have and add elements that enhance it.