Outdoor Projects that Provide the Most ROI

The outside of your home is the first thing that potential buyers see, and you don’t get a second chance at a first impression. If you’re interested in giving your home’s exterior a facelift, you’ll want to consider what projects would be the most beneficial to the value of your home. These projects will positively impact your home’s aesthetic and provide maximum ROI (return on investment).

Before you start any of these projects, consider your budget and goals. As a rule-of-thumb, you should spend around 10% of your home’s total value on landscaping and hardscaping. So if your home is valued at $300,000, a good amount to spend would be $30,000.

OUTDOOR PROJECTS WITH MAXIMUM ROI:

1. Low-Maintenance Water Features
   A common misconception about outdoor upgrades is that a pool is the most beneficial project. This is inaccurate, as pools are a very expensive addition and many buyers don’t want to have the commitment of poolcare. Smaller water features are often a better bet. Consider adding a small, low-maintenance pond or fountain to your yard.
   
   
2. Fire Features
   Fire pits are very attractive to buyers as they add a natural feel to your yard, and create a focal point for gatherings. A stone fire pit is actually rather easy to install, long-lasting, and easy to remove or upgrade if needed. They are also relatively inexpensive and require little upkeep outside of occasional cleaning.
   
   
3. Paving Stone Walkways
   Walkways are a safe bet for valuable property addition because they make it easy to navigate through the backyard without having to step on grass or mud. It’s also very important to fix existing cracks or unstable stone/pavement for safety reasons. Power washing the driveway is a quick alternative to pouring new pavement that will make the home’s exterior look and feel new without breaking the bank.
   
   
4. Patios
   Creating more usable outside space will boost your home’s value as buyer’s gravitate towards homes with outside space to sit with family and host friends. To maximize ROI install a low maintenance stone patio just big enough to fit a table and chairs. Don’t spend money on customizing this patio too much, the buyer’s will do this to match their preferences.
   
   
5. Trees + Shrubs
   Trees + shrubs are easy, low cost to install, and instantly upgrade the appearance of your home’s yard. They also can act as more cost effective fencing, increase privacy, and may even act as a sound barrier if your home is near a busy street. Also make sure the grass in your home’s front yard is fresh, green, and free of weeds or dry spots. This can defer some buyer’s immediately as they may assume the home is not well kept all-together.
   
   
6. Fencing
   High-quality fencing can go a long way towards your home’s overall value. The key is choosing a material that will last and resist corrosion. Consider PVC, wrought iron, or cedar. Not having fencing can sometimes be a deal breaker to buyer’s with children + pets, or buyer’s who just value their privacy.
   
   
7. Lighting
   In-ground recessed lighting is relatively inexpensive, subtle, will make your home feel more luxurious, and make your home stand-out + more usable at night. Buyers will gravitate towards your home because of the security and visual appeal the outdoor lighting provides. Solar powered lights are also a great low maintenance option.