Outdoor space can be a make-it or break-it for buyers. Key spots buyers are interested in: the deck, dining area, lounging spots, and pool. Not only can you increase the value of your property, but you’ll also create the illusion of more overall living space.
Here are six ways to boost your outdoor living cachet and sell your house faster:
1. Make a clean sweep
Just as your interiors must be immaculate, spruce up your outdoor space, too, by sweeping the deck, wiping down furniture, and pressure washing flagstones or patios.
2. Set up lots of seating
Think about how buyers will be using the space and plan around that.
“Buyers want a place they can relax and entertain in, and a seating arrangement is key.”
3. Define your dining area
Whether it’s an al fresco brunch or an impromptu barbecue, everything tastes better outside. Show buyers where they’ll enjoy their morning latte. Ideally, you’d have some shade over your table but if you don’t have trees, put up a pergola. Just make sure it doesn’t block the natural light going into the home.
4. Give your garden an instant wow factor
Even the most beautiful outside living space falls short if you don’t have any plants or flowers, says Perez. So pop some evergreens and vibrant annuals into your flower beds for impact, and layer on fresh mulch. Small urban yards get a boost from containers packed with cascading flowers, and you can make your space appear bigger by drawing your eye to the back of the space with a colorful piece of art as a focal point.
5. Set the perfect scene
Creating different vignettes will help buyers picture themselves enjoying and entertaining outdoors. Picture a luxurious hotel—and make your place look like that.
6. Light up your landscape
Good lighting can have a magical effect during evening showings, where buyers can fall in love seeing your trees are lit up and your pool looking perfect for a nighttime dip.