Exterior Updating to Improve Value

I just got asked to visit a client to help with their exterior updating to see how to improve value – here is more on the topic:

Most homebuyers make up their minds about a home before they take a look inside. No matter how much money, time, and effort you put into styling your home's interior, it will be much harder to sell your house if the exterior does not charm potential buyers. First impressions are everything when it comes to real estate. A buyer is more likely to move on to the next home if your home's exterior is not well-kept and lacks features that offer recreational benefits.

As you prepare your home for the selling process, you may want to consider exterior upgrades that could add value to your home today and in the future. Find out which investments make the most sense with this list of popular outdoor home features that boost property value, marketability, and appeal.

New Siding For a very modest investment, you may find that refreshing the exterior of your home by repairing or restoring your siding will greatly improve the structure and appeal of your home. Consider pressure washing your siding to remove dirt and debris. If your siding has chipping paint, giving a fresh coat of paint can help create a welcoming curb appeal. If cleaning and resurfacing your siding is still not enough, a full siding replacement may be the most efficient and cost-effective way to improve the value of your home.

Outdoor Kitchen Installing an outdoor kitchen allows for entertaining on an ambitious level. Ultimately, it's important to ensure the space is completely functional. Think of a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with electricity, plumbing, gas, and a roof for shelter. Specialty appliances like burners, ovens, sinks, grills, wine coolers, refrigerators, dishwashers, ice-makers, and pizza ovens add sophistication to the space.

Windows and Doors While outdoor home features that involve entertainment and recreation are a major selling feature, so are ones that add functionality and lifetime value to your home. Upgrades such as windows and doors are well worth your investment. Installing energy-efficient window panes is one way to add value to your home. Swapping your front door for a steel unit with casing, window panels, and new hardware is another great way to make an impressive entryway that sets the tone for the rest of the house. While you're at it, consider a new set of door hardware, doorbell, door knocker, lighting, and house numbers to complete the front door makeover.

Landscaping Luscious landscaping will increase your home's value and increase the chances of winning the hearts of your potential homebuyers before they even get inside your home. If your home's landscaping is outdated, overgrown, or just needs a refreshing new look, consider giving it a modern and clean look. Beautiful ways to boost your home's value include adding stone planters, installing a natural flagstone walkway, mulching, and planting various shrubbery, perennials, blooming annuals, and a size-able tree.

Outdoor Lighting Lighting is one of those features that homeowners often forget when adding value to their home's exterior. Outdoor lighting deters burglars, ensures guests arrive at your door safely, and creates a magical ambiance in your yard. Opt for stylish, architectural lighting to highlight the features of your home, as well as carefully designed landscape lighting to allow for the shrubs, flowers, and trees to be enjoyed at night.

Fire-pit There's hardly a backyard that won't benefit from the warmth and functionality of a beautifully installed fire-pit. Even if you don't live in a cold climate, a fire-pit creates an outdoor oasis right in your backyard. It also provides a space to share stories and create delightful memories. And when it's time to sell your home, you will realize a 60 to 70% ROI on a permanent, gas-powered fire-pit. Be sure to check with local authorities and your HOA about any restrictions.

Deck or Backyard Patio Wooden decks and covered patios are some of the most appealing exterior renovation projects that are certain to add value to your home. These features provide the perfect setting to grill in the afternoon, sunbathe, entertain, and relax with the family in the evening. Most people prefer big yards with plenty of grass and landscaping, so a small patio is more desirable. Patios can be made from concrete, hardwood, tile, brick, or flagstones.

Adding outdoor home features can vastly improve your ability to relax outside in your home, boost curb appeal, and increase your home's resale value. But it's important to research before starting any project.

Source: Coldwell Banker Bain, What Outdoor Home Features Add Value.