Boost the Value of Your Home with These Outdoor Upgrades

If you're planning to sell your home in St. George soon, or just want to boost the value of your home, there are ways you can upgrade your exterior to increase the appeal and value of the property. These are some of the tested outdoor upgrades that have been shown to boost property value. 

Outdoor Living Space

A beautiful and functional outdoor living space is a major feature in any market, but especially places like St. George where we can enjoy time outside for most of the year. Outdoor living spaces are becoming more popular, especially as more homeowners seek to maximize the use of their property and an increasing number of people prefer to stay home rather than go out. 

Here are some ideas for your outdoor living space based on our years of seeing what buyers love:

• Decks and Patios: A well-designed deck or patio expands your home’s living space and provides a place to entertain or enjoy the outdoors. According to various studies, you can recoup a significant portion of the investment made in building a deck or patio when you sell the home.
• Outdoor Kitchens: An outdoor kitchen, complete with a grill, countertops, and seating, adds a luxury touch to your backyard. It’s ideal if enjoy hosting gatherings or just spending more time outside.
• Fire Pits or Fireplaces: Fire features add warmth and ambiance to outdoor spaces, making them usable even in cooler weather. Whether it’s a built-in stone fireplace or a portable fire pit, these features can be a focal point for relaxation and socializing.

Fencing

If you do not currently have a fenced in yard, you may want to consider adding this feature. In fact, for some buyers this is a dealbreaker, especially if they have pets or value privacy. 

A well-maintained fence not only adds privacy and security to your property but can also increase its aesthetic appeal. Fences are especially valuable for families with children or pets, so you can cater to these large demographics by adding one. Here's what you should know:

• Privacy and Security: For many buyers, a fenced yard provides peace of mind. Solid wood or vinyl fencing creates a sense of privacy and is durable enough to withstand various weather conditions.
• Decorative Fencing: Ornamental fencing, such as wrought iron or aluminum, can add character to your home without completely obstructing views, creating a blend of security and curb appeal. If your property boasts amazing views, this may be the better choice.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority for homeowners in St. George. Adding eco-friendly outdoor features can boost the appeal of your property to environmentally conscious buyers.

• Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Installing a rainwater collection system to water your garden or lawn can reduce utility costs and appeal to buyers interested in green living.
• Drought-Resistant Landscaping: Having drought-resistant plants or xeriscaping can reduce the need for irrigation and provide an eco-friendly solution.
• Composting Stations: Setting up a composting area in the backyard adds to your home’s sustainability appeal. 

Lighting

In order to take full advantage of an outdoor space, it needs to be well lit for evening use. Well-planned outdoor lighting enhances the safety, security, and overall ambiance of your property. It’s one of the simpler, yet effective, ways to make your home stand out.

• Safety and Security: Lighting walkways, driveways, and entryways not only ensures a safer environment for guests but also deters potential intruders.
• Aesthetic Lighting: Uplighting trees, shrubs, and architectural features can create a dramatic effect and highlight the beauty of your outdoor space at night.
• Energy-Efficient Lighting: Solar-powered or LED lights are increasingly popular for eco-conscious buyers, and they add an environmentally friendly element to the property.

Want to learn more about homes for sale in St. George? Contact us any time for a free market analysis or to begin preparing your home for sale.