Your Summertime Backyard Is Fun And Profitable
Summertime can be such a fun time for both you and your family, especially if you have a backyard to enjoy. Either a large yard or a small one can be decorated for enjoyment and will add value to your home. We’re lucky here in California or in any warm climate to be able to enjoy entertaining in backyards year-round. However, in any weather, a backyard can be delightful. At this time of year, we’re especially lucky. Families and friends spend more time outside in the back basking in the sun, watching the children play, reading, barbequing, and relaxing as much as possible.
Though you want front curb appeal, most people spend far more time in the back of their homes. The family room usually is the one with the patio door and largest windows. Kitchens are more appealing if they have windows overlooking the backyard. That’s where the family view is most important. It’s also the most important view for a buyer.
Interestingly, exterior improvements give more return than interior changes when remodeling according to a cost versus value report that is produced annually and examines the cost versus value for home remodeling. Historically, kitchens and bathrooms are where people tend to spend their money but the return on the investment is not necessarily there. Per Realtor.com “According to the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report the best return for your money are exterior improvements that often are lower cost projects to begin with. Adding decks, replacing siding, new doors and windows are among projects that recoup the most money when re-selling a home … typically 80% or more.” All of these less expensive improvements speak to upgrades affecting your view and enjoyment of your backyard the most by making it as eye-catching as it can possibly be.
While living there, make the backyard your own personal oasis. It should reflect whatever makes you happy. Summer is the best time to do just that. If you don’t spend much time in your backyard, perhaps it’s because there’s nothing out there for you to do right now. If you like gardening, that’s an easy fix and certainly improves the view. You can grow a vegetable garden, lovely flowers, or best of all — trees. Trees will only grow and improve through the years. If you enjoy soccer, level the yard and play with the children. Entertaining? Get that barbeque going and invite some people over! Laughter and smiles should be in your yard. If you are one that enjoys quiet and reading, a hammock or lounge chair with a good book in your backyard is a haven of fresh air. Or certainly, if you have the large windows and sliding glass doors, you can enjoy your lovely view from your family room, dining room, kitchen, or even master bedroom.
So, how do you make your yard work for you without breaking the bank? Well first look around and see what you already have to work with and what can be repaired. Clear any debris, weeds, and get a general idea of what you’d like. If you have a concrete patio, see if there are any cracks you want professionally repaired. It’s difficult if not impossible to match the exact color. While concrete is one of the least expensive patio materials, it’s also one of the least attractive and often ages poorly. It might be a better investment to remove a concrete patio and replace it with pavers, which will instantly improve the look of your backyard and provide more years of visual appeal. Wooden decks are also quite attractive for many homeowners but it’s a matter of taste and affordability. If you already have a deck, you may be able to repair it yourself to keep costs down.
Do add lighting to better enjoy your patio/deck and be sure to have patio furniture for more comfort. Don’t take up too much backyard space if you plan to sell in the near future. Many families covet big backyards, so leave enough space for children and animals.
A built in fire pit can be lovely but must be built out in the open, especially one that has natural gas running to it, and away from any structures. If you do have this type of fire pit you must be sure to have CITY PERMISSION to install. Also take the safety precautions/directions seriously and build a sturdy stone structure around it. If preferred, a regular good standing barbeque works wonderfully. Put the cash into good patio furniture chairs and table instead.
Remember little things can improve the look and create a better space. Add attractive citronella candles to your patio décor to keep pesky bugs away from your guests naturally. — Get patio furniture covers so you don’t have to clean before every party. – If you have children, invest in an outdoor toy box so you can quickly put away toys before guests arrive. – Purchase a grid organization system for your garage where you can hang rakes, brooms and other yard care tools. Keep your yard mowed, weeds pulled, a few flowers (in pots if you’re not the gardening type), and enjoy the summer!