                       
Outdoor Upgrades that Can Increase House Resale Potential
Exterior upgrades can improve everything from your home’s curb appeal to its energy efficiency. Make your outdoor renovations count by investing in the ones that will pay you back when it comes time to sell your home—many of which can be done for $10,000 or less! Before beginning any home project, consider what’s desirable for where you live (i.e. climate) and any homeowners association (HOA) or city ordinances.
- Outdoor fire pit
If you live in a state that enjoys warm summer or year-round nights, an outdoor fire pit area is a bonus you (and future owners of your house!) will love to take advantage of. Think about it—roasting hot dogs or marshmallows under the open sky, watching the stars, and telling spooky stories. Consider a patio surround and a fire pit with natural gas for increased value.
- Upgraded garage doors
New garage doors add curb appeal and can boost home value—especially if they come with automatic openers and/or an outside keypad for keyless entry. Consider getting windows at the top to let natural light in and well-insulated doors to keep the garage as warm or cool as possible during months of extreme weather.
- New front door
A new front door can update the look and style of a house—especially if it matches the updated garage doors! Make sure the door is well insulated for better energy efficiency. Look at window panel options to optimize indoor light.
- Updated exterior siding
Believe it or not, replacing the exterior siding of a house can be one of the most cost-effective ways to improve its value, according to Remodeling Magazine. Using a manufactured stone veneer can really bump up the curb appeal and glamour of a home.
- Revitalized landscaping
Healthy, colorful, maintained landscaping increases the chance of a home sale. This can include a natural flagstone walkway, planters, mulching, perennial flowering shrubs, and a sizable tree, or two.
- Deck or patio space
An attached or detached wood deck or patio can increase the living space of a home, providing the perfect spot for grilling, a relaxing morning cup of coffee, and entertaining. Invest in composite boards for minimal upkeep. Telling prospective buyers they’ll need to watch out for splinters and re-stain a natural wood deck every few years could be a turn off. Be careful not to take up too much backyard space with a deck or patio—families with children, gardeners, and dog owners covet green spaces.
- Outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting along pathways, well-placed sconces, and flood lights can deter burglars and help create warm ambiance along outdoor spaces.
- Lawn sprinkler system
A buried sprinkler system will keep your lawn and other landscaping fresh. It can also help you save on your water bill by preventing overwatering. Buyers are almost always happy to hear the hard work of installing one of these systems is already done and they can sit back and reap the benefits!