- The average US backyard size is half an acre, influencing home value with its appeal and features.
- Curb appeal, outdoor living spaces, and privacy directly impact a home’s value by attracting potential buyers.
- Features like swimming pools and landscaping can add and subtract value depending on conditions and potential hazards.
- Dead trees, which are unsightly and potentially hazardous, should be removed to improve backyard value.
- Planting trees and installing patios or decks can significantly enhance your backyard and increase your home’s value.
When it comes to home value, many factors can impact it, from the location to the size of the home. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the backyard. Your backyard can significantly affect your home’s overall value, and neglecting it could cost you in the long run. Here’s what you need to know about backyards in the U.S., how they can affect your home value, and ways to improve your backyard.
Backyards in The U.S.
It’s estimated that the average size of backyards has reached half an acre in the country. It’s no wonder why many Americans use their backyards to entertain and relax. Whether you prefer a barbeque or an evening under the stars, it’s easy to envision what your backyard could be with the right touches.
But, of course, not all backyards are created equal. Some may have natural features that provide additional value, while others require more effort to become inviting. The location of the backyard can also make a difference when it comes to value, as those in urban areas may be more limited compared to suburban or rural areas.
How It Affects Your Home Value
There are various ways your backyard can affect your home value. Here are some of those ways:
1. Curb Appeal
Your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see, and having an attractive and well-maintained backyard can significantly contribute to your home’s curb appeal. A well-manicured lawn, trimmed bushes, and colorful flowers can make a great first impression and entice buyers to look closer. On the other hand, an unkempt or neglected backyard can turn buyers off and decrease your home’s value.
2. Flexibility and Entertainment Space
Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular as they provide homeowners with additional flexibility regarding entertaining and relaxing. If your backyard has a patio or deck, it could provide you with an added advantage in the real estate market. These outdoor living spaces can be a great selling point, but only if they are in good condition. A crumbling patio or rotting deck can detract from your home’s value.
3. Privacy
Privacy is a valuable commodity for many home buyers, and your backyard could play a crucial role in providing it. If your property backs up to a wooded area or has tall privacy fences, it could increase your home’s value. However, if your backyard is exposed to neighboring properties or is near a busy road, it could decrease your home’s value.
4. Swimming Pool
A swimming pool can be a great addition to a backyard, providing a fun and relaxing recreational activity for the family. However, it can also be a liability for some buyers. Some families with young children or pets may view the pool as a safety hazard and might not consider buying a home that includes one. Additionally, pools require substantial maintenance, which can be costly and time-consuming.
5. Landscaping
Finally, the landscaping in your backyard can play a significant role in your home’s value. Mature trees, a well-designed garden, and other eye-catching outdoor features can increase your home’s appeal. Conversely, overgrown bushes, dead trees, and grass can detract from your home’s value.
Best Backyard Renovations For Homes
If you want to improve your backyard, here are three of the best backyard renovations you can do:
Remove Dead Trees
Dead trees are a huge eyesore and can detract from your home’s value. If you have dead trees on your property, removing them as soon as possible is essential. Not only will this improve the overall look of your backyard, but it could also help prevent any potential safety hazards in the future.
Removing tree stumps is essential, as it can be home to pests. A stump removal and grinding service can do this for you. They can dig up the tree stumps and grind them down to a few inches below the ground, making them easier to cover with new grass or other landscaping.
Plant Trees
Trees can add value to your home in multiple ways. They are aesthetically pleasing, provide shade for hot summer days, and reduce noise from traffic or neighbors. Additionally, mature trees increase the privacy of your backyard and can help attract birds and other wildlife.
You don’t need to have a large backyard to plant trees. Even small yards can benefit from planting several medium-sized trees, providing a great return on investment.
Install a Patio or Deck
Adding an outdoor living space can increase the value of your home and provide you with additional flexibility regarding entertaining and relaxing.
If you want to save money, consider installing a patio instead of a deck. Patios are cheaper and easier to install than decks but still provide an inviting outdoor living space for family and friends. And since patios don’t need any railings or stairs, they’re also much safer than decks.
Your backyard can significantly affect your home’s overall value, and neglecting it could cost you in the long run. To ensure you get the most out of your backyard, it’s essential to understand how it affects your home value and invest in making improvements when needed. From removing dead trees to planting new ones and installing a patio or deck, you can improve your backyard and increase the value of your home in many ways.
