We’ve put together a list of the best upgrades to increase resale value so that you can make the right choices for your home. From giving your landscape design some much-needed TLC to creating new outdoor spaces for entertaining, relaxing, and more, consider this your guide to savvy home improvement.
1. Give your landscape a refresh – and use native, water-wise plants.
There’s at least one corner of their yard for many homeowners that could use a little extra love. Whether there are some neglected plants you’d like to replace, or you want to completely makeover your entire landscape design, it can be a high-impact upgrade in more ways than one.
A professional landscape design can make a dramatic difference in the look of your front and back yard, especially if you’re currently working with standard, builder-grade landscaping. Here in Austin, native plants are a smart way to cater to future buyers who value sustainability (and lower water bills!). Xeriscaping isn’t your only option when it comes to sustainable landscaping in Austin; many native plants can bring vibrant color and lush greenery to your yard.
2. Add on an attached or detached deck for a new seating area.
A custom deck doesn’t just add style and personality to your backyard; it also extends your living area and creates a comfortable space to enjoy the outdoors. Ideally, outdoor decks should seamlessly flow with both your home’s exterior and outdoor landscape. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your deck design, including considering options like multiple tiers or covered decks for next-level results.
Using high-quality materials that are designed to last is key, especially for increasing home value. Of course, professional deck installation services in Austin are just as important. If it is an asset to your property, a deck must be properly designed and built for comfort, safety, and style.
3. Install a backyard patio that complements your exterior.
Like a deck, a patio also acts as an extension of your home. Covered and enclosed patios are particularly well-suited to our Texas weather, offering shade from the sun as well as a structure for mounting an outdoor fan.
With a custom-built enclosed patio, your options are virtually endless: you can set up an efficient grilling station in one section, create space for an outdoor projection screen for summer movie nights, or build an arbor to show off your collection of garden roses. Not only do custom patios in Austin improve your quality of life as a homeowner, but they can entice future buyers as well.
4. Make al fresco meals convenient with an outdoor kitchen.
Especially here in Austin, outdoor kitchens are no longer considered a luxury – for many home buyers; they are a feature they expect to see. Perfect for entertaining and everyday meals alike, an outdoor kitchen makes it easy to use your backyard to its fullest potential. A custom design allows you to create a space that makes sense, both for how you want to use it and what buyers will appreciate.
For example, many home buyers like to see built-in BBQs with nearby counter space for prep and serving. A bar-height counter with stylish bar stools can serve as a spot for chilled drinks during summer soirees or a comfortable spot for the kids to snack while they play outside. Form and function are both vital in a custom outdoor kitchen, so choose a professional designer that can give you the best of both worlds.
5. Set up a garden for organic fruits, vegetables, or flowers.
Gardens of all sizes and types can be an attractive feature for potential buyers, adding monetary value as well as setting your property apart from others. Especially with the rising popularity of raised bed gardening, a growing number of people are looking for homes that already have an established garden setup.
In order to maximize your investment, high-quality building materials and an aesthetically pleasing design are key. If you’re going to build raised beds or similarly free-standing containers, avoid cutting corners with low-quality options that aren’t likely to last long. Instead, look for a garden design team that can help you design and construct a beautiful garden area complete with lighting, irrigation, and plants that complement each other well.
6. Create an outdoor oasis with the addition of a water feature.
You might not think that a water feature would have a significant impact on the resale value of your home. However, water features enhance an outdoor space in many meaningful ways. From the sound of water to the gentle reflection of natural light, a masterfully crafted water feature brings a sense of tranquility to any yard.
Water feature styles include fountains, ponds, streams, reflecting pools, waterfalls, and many others. Custom water features can be specifically crafted to conserve water and money, minimizing maintenance, expense, and water use. Buyers will be impressed at the addition of a well-designed water feature and even more happy to hear that it’s a smart, water-wise system at that.
