Shawn DeLaat
With the summer months finally upon us, people are surely excited to start spending more time outside with family and friends. With COVID-19 having an impact on our normal summer activities there are more people than ever who are now spending most of their time in the comfort of their own home. This means that our backyards have become our own personal oasis for the summer months that lie ahead.
Whether you are thinking about making some changes for your own personal desires or if you are thinking about listing your house, the renovations listed below are sure to add both value and enjoyment to your home.
1. Build A Deck Or A Patio
Having a nice exterior “living” space in which you can entertain guests is sure to add value to your property. A deck, either attached or detached, is a great place for family and friends to gather and enjoy the nice weather. It is often seen as an extension of your home.
Wood decks are considered to be the best return on investment when compared to other options such as a composite deck (more expensive) and a patio (adds less value). However, it all depends on what works best for your home, your desires and your budget.
Be sure to build your deck or patio with plenty of space for seating (think patio sets/outdoor dining sets) and room for other features such as a BBQ and potted plants. Also be sure to factor in and budget for safety measures such as railings, stairs, etc.
2. Outdoor Lighting
Having ample lighting in your backyard is beneficial for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is an excellent safety and security measure, allowing you to illuminate dark and shadowy areas in your yard for full visibility while simultaneously helping to deter potential trespassers. Secondly, outdoor lighting can turn your backyard into a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere and help you showcase some of the desirable features in your yard.
Keep in mind that your outdoor lighting should not only look good, but should also be suited for the seasonal requirements of your area. Additionally, consider looking for energy efficient options such as low wattage bulbs, motion sensors, dusk to dawn lighting and even solar lighting.
3. Outdoor Fire Pit
As mentioned before, entertainment features are some of the most desirable elements for your backyard. In places like Ontario, where we experience cooler weather in the spring and fall months, a fire pit is advantageous and desirable.
There are many different designs and ways that a firepit can be included on your property including above ground pits, in-ground pits and even portable setups. It is important to call your local fire department and review any types of restrictions or regulations that come with installing and enjoying an outdoor fire pit.
4. Outdoor Kitchen
In recent years, outdoor kitchens have become a popular and desirable feature for homebuyers. We are not necessarily talking about the high end outdoor kitchens that are commonly found in higher priced, luxury homes, we are talking about simple yet effective areas that can help homeowners keep the party outside and be convenient for entertainers.
To add value to your home and get a reasonable return on your investment, it is important to keep things basic and high quality. Including features such as an inset grill, ice chest, sink, storage, ample counter space under a sheltered area is more than enough to peak a buyers interest and prompt them to pay more for this luxury.
5. Privacy
There are several ways that privacy can be achieved in your backyard. The most effective way is to install a fence that offers privacy around the perimeter of your yard. Aside from a fence being the best way to achieve privacy from your neighbours and other passersby, it is also a very desirable feature for potential buyers that have children and/or pets.
One other way to achieve privacy in your backyard is to utilize landscaping to your advantage and include strategically placed hedges, climbing plants, potted plants and more. Lastly, you can use other structures such as pergolas or lattice.
6. Shade Cover
Although Ontario is not blessed with warm weather year round, we are truly blessed to have some very hot and sunny summer months. While almost everyone is grateful to see the sun and feel its warmth, it can quickly become overwhelming which is why it is important to provide shady areas in your backyard.
You can provide shade using gazebos, pergolas, shade screens, patio umbrellas and more. It has also been noted that mature, healthy trees that are placed effectively on your property can also add shade and value to your home (be sure not to place somewhere where root systems can disturb your home or other structures).
General Outdoor Maintenance
On top of all of the exciting backyard add-ons that can add value to your home, it is important to keep up with the day to day maintenance of your entire property. Take a look below at some of the most important outdoor maintenance tasks that can help raise your home’s value and increase your curb appeal.
Landscaping
A lush, green yard can do wonders for a buyer’s perception and the overall value of your home. The Government of Canada provides homeowners with excellent maintenance and management tips for a healthy lawn.
Mature, easy to maintain and water wise gardens are also an easy way to add value, marketability and appeal to your home.
Install Water Sprinkler System
Installing an inground water sprinkler is one of the yard renovations that will often give you a good return on your investment. Yard irrigation systems are desirable because it can offer you and future homeowners both time and money savings.
Exterior Paint
A fresh coat of paint on the exterior of your home can go a long way in making your home look new and revitalized. These renovations are great if you are thinking about selling your home as it instantly boosts curb appeal for buyers.
Looking To Sell Your Home In The Niagara Region? Call Davids & DeLaat Today!
Are you looking to sell your house in the Niagara Region? Whether you are in St. Catharines, Port Colborne or Niagara Falls, the team of real estate agents at Davids & DeLaat are experts in the local market. We can help you decide which renovations will add value and put more money in your pocket. Visit our site today to get started with your free home evaluation!
