When it comes to home renovations, the backyard is often the last place to receive attention.
If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space, it’s important to understand the value-boosting potential it has. From increasing your entertaining square footage to creating more space to play, your backyard is abundant in possibilities that could make your property more liveable while ensuring it’ll be snapped up quickly when it’s time to sell.
1. A place to entertain
Not all outdoor entertainment areas are created equal. To be an asset to your property, your entertainment space should be comfortable, private, and eye-catching. Start with a clean-edged patio and add some unique touches that make your backyard somewhere your guests won’t want to leave, such as:
- In-built seating
- Outdoor kitchen and BBQ
- Outdoor fireplace
- Speaker system
- Water features
- Decorative outdoor lighting
2. A shaded spot to retreat to
Shade is an essential part of any highly functional outdoor area. To make the most of your backyard in all seasons, invest in an innovative shade structure such as:
Pergola
In-built or freestanding, pergolas provide ample shade to large areas. A pergola with retractable rafters allows you to choose the amount of shade you want, whether it’s full or none at all.
Retractable awning
Retractable awnings are an excellent option if you don’t want a permanent structure. Electronic or manual, wind your awning in and out and have shade as and when you need it.
Removable shade sail
Shade sails are a cost-effective structure that provide plenty of shade to sunny spaces. With the option to remove your shade sail, you can keep your outdoor space shade-free in the winter months to soak up as much winter sun as possible.
3. Invest in a tiny space for Airbnb
Transform your empty backyard into a sweet little income earner and boost your home’s value all in one go. If you’ve got the extra space, why not make a side hustle out of it and become an Airbnb host?
Prefabricated tiny cabins and portable homes are assembled offsite and transported to where they need to go, so you won’t have to worry about builders banging away in your backyard. All you’ll need to do is choose your design, prepare a levelled space, and start creating a cute, cosy little Airbnb your guests will love.
Imagine being able to tell prospective buyers they could pay off their mortgage with the income they earn off the Airbnb in the backyard. Essentially, your Airbnb will be a second dwelling on your site, which will instantly boost your property’s value.
4. A corner garden escape
There are few things more relaxing than a private garden escape—a place to enjoy the quiet and let stress melt away. Garden escapes utilise empty corner spaces in your backyard and add significant value to your property.
Imagine paved pathways leading to a private retreat set amongst luscious green foliage. These small, delightful spaces are simple to establish, providing a cost-effective backyard enhancement that’s sure to capture the imagination of potential buyers.
5. A space to create
Every creative mind needs space to focus on their art form. One room all to themselves is all it takes to spark the artistic senses. A small, sunny studio in your backyard will bring hours of joy to your resident creative and add something truly unique to your property.
Mimicking the style of your home, your on-site studio will be a stylish, low-maintenance extension, requiring only a few necessities such as plumbing and power.
6. A tiered backyard
Tiered backyards are an ideal solution for sloping landscapes that need levelling. Installing a retaining wall creates two separate landscaped areas with different purposes. Keep the lower level for your outdoor entertaining area and let the kids use the upper level for space to run around.
With steps leading from one level to the other, a tiered lawn creates the illusion of more space without adding to your section. While it sounds like a significant backyard renovation, a tiered yard is a relatively simple way to make a sloping lawn more functional and improve the overall look of your outdoor space.
7. A personal oasis
If you’re looking for the ultimate value-booster, just add water.
Installing a pool will transform your home into a personal oasis. Even simple structures can enhance your backyard in ways you never thought possible. Pools provide constant family entertainment and a place to relax and unwind after a long summer’s day.
Believe it or not, size doesn’t matter. Whether you opt for a small lap pool, a swim spa, or a large luxury pool, pools add immense value to your home, no matter the size. Of course, the size you choose will depend on your budget, space, and willingness to maintain.
8. A place to play
A spacious backyard is a perfect place for kids to run around safely and engage in imaginative play. Enhance their playtime experience with a playhouse, jungle gym, sandpit or plenty of great hiding spots for the ultimate game of hide-and-seek. Encourage kids to spend more time outdoors and help them burn their endless energy.
The kids will love a playful backyard, but there’s no reason grownups can’t join in on the fun! If you’ve got the space, you can enjoy a range of outdoor games such as petanque, croquet, cricket, giant Jenga or ring toss. These games can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike and provide great entertainment for your guests.
Your backyard is bustling with potential
Your backyard has enormous potential for creating more liveable space and adding value to your home. Don’t miss the opportunity to make your backyard into a work of art with unique features you don’t see every day.
These days, space is a luxury. If you’re looking out to an empty lawn, consider ways to utilise the space that enhances your home’s value. A creative backyard upgrade will give you and your family a reason to spend more time out in the fresh air and boost your earnings when it comes time to sell.
Do you have any backyard renovations planned? Let me know in the comments!