Some Outdoor Updates That Make Good Impression

1. Make Your Yard More Functional

Adding function to your backyard is one of the best things you can do to boost home value. “Can you entertain? Can your kids play? Can you exercise? Can you tinker on hobbies or in a garden?” Use landscaping, hardscaping, outdoor furniture, and other add-ons to create zones that can accommodate various outdoor activities.

2. Clean Up the Exterior

As the first thing potential buyers see when they pull up to your home, the exterior needs to appear clean and well-maintained. If a buyer drives up to a home and the yard is neglected, they will begin to think it’s too hard to take care of.  First impressions are everything.

Prep your home to show with simple spruce-ups like pressure-washing the driveway, cleaning the roof, mowing the lawn, and adding edging around flower beds. These easy projects can often make a big difference in your home’s perceived value.

3. Attach an Outdoor Living Space

When it comes to outdoor living, easy access is key. Consider your area’s climate and weather patterns to determine which type of outdoor space might bring the biggest boost.

For example, in the Pacific Northwest, where rain is common, “a covered porch with an outdoor kitchen, dining area, or sitting area has a high return on a home’s value,” .  In sunnier climates, an attached deck with a pergola can offer valuable open-air living space that provides some relief from the harsh sun.

4. Simplify Your Landscaping

Most buyers want low-maintenance plantings. Hostas and daylilies are hearty perennials for simple landscaping. Putting down mulch or groundcover also makes for easy upkeep. If you want to go with something temporary, put colorful annuals in pots. Add mulch, pull weeds, and trim hedges around the yard for a clean and effortless look.

5. Dress Up Your Front Door

A new coat of paint in a color other than white or black can make the front door memorable for potential buyers. Go with a color that stands out but also complements the home’s style. Replace the handle if it’s tarnished or looks dated. Spray paint the handle if it just needs a quick update. Accessories like door numbers and knockers give a welcoming feeling, so play up the hardware.

Helpful tips:

Therese MacGregor

541-840-2708