Summer on the coast and an outdoor living space in your home go together like peanut butter and jelly. And, with so many folks, moving here from the North, where outdoor living is limited within the year, these buyers are craving a backyard oasis. In fact, buyers are more prone to pay $5,000 to $10,000 more for a home with an updated, functional yard than a property without one.

Here are a few ways we recommend taking outdoor living to a whole new level for interested home buyers:

Add Unique Amenities

With the pandemic shutting the world down last year, along with some of our favorite outdoor activities, homeowners have been adding unique amenities to their outdoor space in the backyard, such as putting greens, a basketball court, “she shed,” outdoor kitchens, and meditation or yoga areas.

Add Some Backyard Basics

Amenities don’t have to be exactly unique to add value. Homeowners can also screen in the back porch, add a firepit and sitting area, and more so buyers can visualize those backyard barbecues and gatherings.

Don’t Go Over the Top

Over-the-top additions and improvements, however, mean extra expense and won’t necessarily add more value. Adding a pool, for example, that costs $80,000 may only add half that amount during a home’s appraisal.

Take Advantage of New Photo Software

Seller’s agents now have access to new photo editing software that’s out there that can show potential buyers the potential of the backyard. Meaning that, if the home is being listed when your landscaping isn’t in full bloom, this photo editing tool will help buyers envision what the home will look like throughout the year. For instance, adding leaves to trees during the fall and slight color to the Bermudagrass during the winter.

Let It Grow

Picture-perfect landscaping is essential to maximize the sale price of your home. From the yard to your flower bed, an outdoor escape resonates with its natural surrounds of colors and scents. Do some research to see what types of flora are popular in your area, thrive in sun or shade and require little maintenance. Popular examples are ornamental grasses and succulents.

Expect Changes

Expect your backyard landscaping design to change as plants grow (or unexpectedly die). If you don’t have a green thumb, consider hiring a professional landscaper who can save you the sweat and stress, and take the guesswork out of everything.

When you’ve completed your outdoor oasis and you’re ready to sell, call Sands Realty Group at 843.839.4878 to help you get started!