Oftentimes a singular feature in a home can seal the deal and make it the “selling point” of the home. This could range from an elegant foyer, a view of the mountains, or a luxurious primary bedroom with a walk-in closet and updated bathroom. One popular selling point for homes is the front yard and backyard — after all, half of curb appeal is what the front yard looks like! 

Many homeowners want to remodel their outdoor space to better serve their needs, whether it is for play — like pickleball, corn hole, or swimming — or entertaining — with built-in barbecues and eating areas.

The cost of landscaping and outdoor remodels has increased over the years because of the cost of labor, materials, and other factors. This means that when a property comes to market that already has the dream backyard, it has enormous value to a home buyer because you don’t have to invest in the work yourself. Although it is popular to DIY a backyard remodel, it is easy to underestimate how much time, energy, expertise, and money it will cost. 

NAR Magazine provided 3 tips for how to remodel your yard*:

  • 1. Plant according to a local climate, water and soil specifications.
  • 2. Develop a cohesive design plan up front.
  • 3. Forgo features that require lots of maintenance and will detract from leisure time, unless hiring help is part of the budget.
Pools are always a favorite for homeowners, especially in Southern California, as temperatures rise in the summer and the pool area becomes an extension of living space. 

 

Some trending backyard upgrades that appeal to home buyers include: pools and spas; relaxation zones (designated areas with fire pits, seating, and sometimes outdoor TCs and sound systems); outdoor kitchen and dining areas; storage sheds; and gardens. Native plants, drought tolerant landscaping, and turf all frequently get installed to reduce water usage. 

If you are a homeowner considering undertaking backyard or front yard improvements before selling, please reach out to me! Different improvements have different ROIs (Return on Investments) and often there are some easier alternatives to increasing your curb appeal before going to market.

If you are currently looking to buy right now,  remember that improvements that are already completed are a huge value. If the current homeowner put in the work to build a spa, deck, shed, pickleball court, or any other improvement, that is something that you now don’t have to do! 

Please reach out anytime with questions. We are your go-to REALTORS! 
 

This content is not the product of the National Association of REALTORS®, and may not reflect NAR's viewpoint or position on these topics and NAR does not verify the accuracy of the content.