Increasing your home’s curb appeal doesn’t just make your house look nice – it also significantly boosts its value. It’s a double win: you get to enjoy a beautiful outdoor space while reaping the financial benefits when it’s time to sell. Here are 13 outdoor projects I undertook that not only made my home more inviting but also increased its market value.
1. Landscaping Overhaul
Landscaping is one of the most significant factors that influence a home’s first impression. I started with a complete cleanup of my yard, removing dead plants and trimming overgrown shrubs. Then, I hired professionals to design a landscape that was both beautiful and easy to maintain.
The new design included a variety of perennial plants that bloom at different times of the year, ensuring a colorful display throughout all seasons. The landscaping overhaul significantly increased my home’s curb appeal, and real estate agents estimated that it could add as much as 10% to the home’s value.
2. Deck Addition
Adding a deck is another home improvement project that can significantly boost a home’s value. I opted for a spacious, multi-level deck that provided ample space for outdoor dining and lounging.
The deck became an extension of my living space, perfect for hosting barbecues or simply enjoying a quiet evening outdoors. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a deck addition can recoup up to 72.8% of its cost when you sell your home.
3. Outdoor Lighting
A well-lit exterior not only improves safety and security but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of a home. I installed low-voltage landscape lighting to highlight architectural features and illuminate walkways.
The outdoor lighting transformed the look of my home at night and created a warm, welcoming ambiance. The National Association of Home Builders reports that outdoor lighting is one of the most desired outdoor features by home buyers, and it can significantly improve a home’s resale value.
4. Paving Stone Walkway
A paved walkway is more than just a path; it adds character and charm to a home. I replaced my old concrete path with a walkway made of paving stones.
The new path was not only visually appealing but also more durable and less prone to cracking compared to concrete. Plus, potential homebuyers appreciate the high-quality look and longevity of stone walkways.
5. Front Door Upgrade
The front door is one of the first things people see when they visit your home. I decided to replace my old, worn-out door with a new, energy-efficient model.
My new door not only improved my home’s energy efficiency but also added a fresh, modern touch to the exterior. According to Remodeling Magazine, a front door upgrade can recoup up to 74.9% of its cost at resale.
6. Fresh Exterior Paint
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s curb appeal. I chose a neutral color scheme that blended well with the surrounding landscape and the architectural style of my home.
The new paint significantly improved the exterior look of my home, making it more appealing to potential buyers. It’s estimated that a fresh paint job can increase a home’s value by up to 5%.
7. Vegetable Garden
A vegetable garden is a charming addition to any backyard, and it’s also a feature that many homebuyers appreciate. I started a small vegetable garden, growing everything from tomatoes to zucchinis.
Not only did the garden provide fresh produce, but it also became a focal point in my backyard, adding a touch of greenery and life. Plus, a well-maintained garden can increase a property’s value by up to 14%.
8. New Garage Door
Upgrading the garage door is another project that can significantly boost a home’s value. I replaced my old garage door with an insulated, steel model that improved my home’s security and energy efficiency.
A new garage door can drastically change the look of a home, making it more attractive to potential buyers. According to Remodeling Magazine, a garage door replacement can recoup up to 94.5% of its cost at resale.
9. Stone Veneer Siding
Adding stone veneer siding to the exterior of my home was a significant upgrade that made my home stand out. This type of siding is not only attractive but also incredibly durable and low maintenance.
The stone veneer siding added a touch of luxury to my home’s exterior, improving its curb appeal and market value. On average, stone veneer siding can recoup up to 92.1% of its cost at resale.
10. Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen is a luxury feature that can dramatically increase a home’s value. I installed a simple outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill, countertop, and storage space.
This outdoor feature transformed my backyard into an excellent spot for entertaining, and potential buyers were impressed by the added functionality. An outdoor kitchen can increase a home’s value by up to $15,000, according to the National Association of Realtors.
11. Fencing
Installing a fence around my property was another project that boosted my home’s value. I opted for a wooden privacy fence that added a sense of security and privacy to my backyard.
A fence can define property lines, improve curb appeal, and make a home more attractive to families with children or pets. On average, installing a fence can add up to $2,000 to a home’s resale value.
12. Fire Pit
A fire pit is a great addition to any backyard, providing a cozy spot for outdoor gatherings. I installed a simple, circular fire pit surrounded by comfortable seating.
The fire pit became a popular spot for relaxation and entertainment, and it definitely made my backyard more appealing. According to a Harris Poll for the National Association of Landscape Professionals, fire pits are among the top three outdoor design elements requested by homeowners.
13. Energy-Efficient Windows
Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones is a smart way to increase a home’s value. I installed double-paned windows that improved my home’s energy efficiency and reduced noise pollution.
Energy-efficient windows are a feature that many homebuyers look for, and they can significantly increase a home’s resale value. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to $465 a year by replacing single-pane windows with energy-efficient windows.