Investing in Your Home: How Outdoor Upgrades Increase Property Value

Investing in your home is always a wise decision. After all, your home is not just a place to live — but also a valuable asset that can appreciate or depreciate over time. 

While many homeowners focus on interior upgrades to increase their property value, outdoor upgrades can have just as much impact. In fact, well-designed landscaping and outdoor living space can increase property value by up to 12%.

But it's not just about the numbers. Investing in your home's outdoor space also enhances your quality of life and provides a welcoming environment for you and your guests. 

So, let's explore some outdoor upgrades that add value to your property and make your home a more enjoyable place to live.

Outdoor Patio Upgrades

An outdoor patio is a highly desired feature for many homeowners. So, if your home has a patio, consider giving it a facelift to increase its appeal and value. 

Some ideas for upgrading your outdoor patio include: 

1. Outdoor Kitchen Area

   One popular trend for an outdoor living space is the addition of an outdoor kitchen area. This not only adds value to your backyard patio but also creates a functional space where you can cook and entertain family and friends.

   An outdoor kitchen space can range from a simple grill and countertop setup to a fully equipped kitchen with appliances, storage, and a seating area. The key is to create an inviting and functional space that blends seamlessly with your patio space.  

   Some features you might want to consider for your outdoor kitchen are:  

   • Built-in grill or smoker
   • Refrigerator
   • Sink and outdoor faucet
   • Storage cabinets 
   • Countertop space for food prep
   • Seating area, such as a bar or dining table 

   Potential buyers will see an outdoor kitchen's added convenience and luxury as a valuable feature of your property. In the meantime, it's a great place to enjoy the beautiful weather and entertain guests on your backyard patio. 

2. Outdoor Lighting 

   Another way to upgrade your outdoor patio is by adding lighting elements. It allows you to continue using your patio area long after the sun goes down and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Not to mention, if you show your property in the evening, outdoor lighting will greatly enhance its appearance and create a lasting impression on potential buyers. 

   There are many options for outdoor lighting on your patio design, such as: 

   • String Lights 

     String lights are a popular choice for outdoor lighting as they create a cozy and whimsical ambiance. You can easily string them along the perimeter of your patio design or hang them from above to create a canopy effect. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to fit any outdoor aesthetic. 

   • Pathway Lights 

     Pathway lights are a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to any outdoor space. They provide visibility and safety by lighting up walkways, patio steps, and other areas that may be difficult to navigate in the dark. They also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your property's exterior. 

   • Spotlights 

     Spotlights are a great option for showcasing specific features in your backyard, such as a beautiful tree, garden bed, or water feature. They create a dramatic effect and draw attention to these focal points, adding depth and character to your backyard and patio space. 

3. Outdoor Seating and Dining Area

   Another desirable upgrade for your outdoor patio is creating a comfortable seating and dining area.

   There are many options for outdoor seating, from cozy sectionals to elegant dining sets. Keep in mind the size of your patio and choose furniture that fits comfortably without overcrowding the space. You can also add some personal touches, such as decorative pillows or an outdoor rug, to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

   If set up well, you can make your patio design feel like an outdoor living room or dining room. This can help potential buyers envision themselves spending time and creating memories with their family and friends in this space.

Additional Outdoor Upgrades to Consider

While your patio is an important feature to focus on, there are other areas of your outdoor space that can benefit from upgrades as well. 

Here are some additional features to consider for your backyard:

Fire Pit or Outdoor Fireplace 

Adding a fire pit or outdoor fireplace to your backyard can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment. Imagine sitting around the fire on a cool evening, roasting marshmallows with loved ones, or simply enjoying the warmth and ambiance of the flames.

There are many options for fire pits and outdoor fireplaces, including built-in designs or portable ones that can be moved around. Whichever design you choose, adding a fire feature to your backyard can increase its appeal and value.

Water Features

In addition to fire, adding a water feature to your outdoor space can also enhance its aesthetic appeal and create a tranquil atmosphere. This could include a small pond, fountain, or even a simple birdbath.

Not only do these features add visual interest, but the sound of running water can also be relaxing and mask any noise from nearby roads or neighbors. This can be a big draw for potential buyers.

Greenery and Landscaping

Last but not least, don't forget about the importance of landscaping and greenery in your outdoor space. Adding plants, flowers, and trees can add color, texture, and dimension to your backyard.

Consider incorporating a mix of annuals and perennials for year-round beauty, as well as shrubs and trees for added privacy and shade. You can also add in hardscaping elements such as pathways, retaining walls, or seating areas to further enhance your outdoor space.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many ways to upgrade your backyard and create an outdoor oasis. A little bit of creativity and planning can go a long way in transforming your space into an inviting, functional, and beautiful outdoor living area. 

So, whether you're looking to increase your home's value or simply want to enjoy your backyard to the fullest - consider implementing some of these ideas to take your outdoor space.

At Family Leisure, we have everything you need to create the backyard of your dreams. From fire features and water features to outdoor furniture and accessories, we have a wide selection of high-quality products to help you transform your space. 

Visit us online to browse our selection!