Increasing Your Home’s Value with Outdoor Living Spaces
Not only is an outdoor living space a great feature to enjoy while you live in your home, but it will also attract buyers when you’re ready to sell. Professionally installed landscaping and hardscaping go a long way in increasing your property value, but they also help make your home look beautiful and customized, which will stand out in the potential buyer’s mind. Walkways, patios, planting beds, water features, retaining walls, fire pits and outdoor kitchens are all elements that increase your home’s value and appeal.
The American Society of Landscape Architects recommends that homeowners invest 10 to 30 percent of the home’s value in landscaping. This investment provides a hefty return and can add 20 percent to your home’s value, a figure that rivals a new kitchen or bath. That being said, a poorly done landscape can detract from your home’s beauty and make potential buyers pass it by without ever looking inside. It is crucial to solicit the help of experienced local professionals that can manage your project from consultation to completion.
A trend in these outdoor living spaces (especially here in Bucks County, PA) that goes beyond the traditional patio or deck is that they are designed to function as outdoor rooms with comfortable and durable furnishings, fire pits, even televisions and audio systems. Outdoor kitchens are also increasing in popularity, with amenities ranging from a simple grill to a sink, refrigerator, countertops and storage space. A reputable hardscaping professional can help you decide which building materials and features fit your space, location, and budget.
And don’t forget: No matter how nice you make your outdoor living space, you’ll never utilize it to its full potential if you feel like your neighbours are watching your every move. Your project should always include a budget for nice screening or fencing for your yard, which will in itself add value to your property.
Bottom line: Well-designed, professionally installed outdoor living spaces help you enjoy your home, as well as grab buyers’ attention. And those buyers are willing to pay a premium for a home with a thoughtfully planned landscape and outdoor living area.
