Impactful outdoor upgrades that add value
Image courtesy of Andrew Thron improvements
1. Improvements for curb appeal
First impressions are important. Buyers often decide how they feel about a home before they even step foot in it. “If you’re looking for the best way to add long-term value to your home, I always recommend starting with an attractive exterior,” says Andrew Thron of Atimprovements.com. “Simple upgrades such as resurfacing worn concrete, updating the front yard or painting the front door can immediately improve the perception of a home.”
He adds, “While cosmetic improvements are important, the greatest value often comes from more substantial outdoor projects. On one of our recent builds, we replaced the porch railing and added an overhanging gable roof, completely transforming the exterior of the home and increasing the overall value of the property.”
High-impact upgrades include:
- Fresh exterior paint or new facade accents
- A modern front door or an improved garage door
- A clean, well-defined landscape with trimmed hedges and seasonal plants
- House numbers, lighting and mailbox updated
2. Landscaping and hardscaping
Thoughtful landscaping adds both beauty and functionality. Well-designed outdoor spaces feel like an extension of the home, and buyers are especially attracted to landscaping that looks neat but doesn’t require extensive maintenance.
Upgrades that add the most value:
- Demarcated garden beds with stone or concrete borders
- Walkways made of pavers, stone or stamped concrete
- Low-maintenance plants and native greenery
- Retaining walls that improve drainage and usable space
3. Decks and patios
Outdoor spaces are highly desirable, especially as buyers increasingly value spaces for entertaining and relaxing at home.
“Outdoor upgrades such as adding a deck, patio or functional seating area can greatly increase both the daily enjoyment and resale value of the home,” says Cecille with Farmhouse kitchen and bathroom details. “Incorporating low-maintenance landscaping, outdoor lighting and sustainable materials ensures the space is both attractive and practical all year round. Homeowners can also focus on budget-conscious upgrades that maximize ROI, such as potted plants, built-in benches or simple outdoor kitchens, without a complete renovation.”
Best options for ROI:
- Pressure treated wooden decking or composite decking
- Level or raised terraces with simple railings
- Concrete or paving terraces with space for seating and dining areas
4. Outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting improves both aesthetics and safety, two things that buyers value highly. “Integrating budget-friendly lighting into your outdoor spaces is an easy, rewarding DIY project that will let you enjoy your garden well after sunset,” says Lauren Kim with Mother home guide explains.
“The right lighting can add both fun and convenience, especially if you choose sets with remote controls that allow you to schedule on/off times or even change colors. There are all kinds of decorative lighting you can enjoy, including ornate Christmas lights or fireflies swaying in the wind.”
Other value-enhancing lighting upgrades include:
- Road lighting along walkways and driveways
- Accent lighting for landscaping and architectural features
- Motion sensor lighting for safety
Darby Chastain, with Providence Hill real estatereflects the feeling that lighting is a valuable investment. “One of our biggest recommendations is to invest in great lighting. From exterior uplighting to mood lighting on the patio, these small, inexpensive updates can make a big impact.
Uplighting can be as simple as installing a few well-placed spotlights in your front yard to enhance the appearance of the evening edge. For patios and outdoor areas we recommend the classic Edison string lights. They create a warm, inviting atmosphere and transform your space into an outdoor retreat.”
5. Privacy and fencing
Privacy is a major selling point, especially in suburban and urban areas. Privacy upgrades allow buyers to imagine enjoying their outdoor space without feeling exposed.
Consider upgrades such as:
- Wooden or vinyl privacy screens
- Decorative screens or lattice panels
- Strategic landscaping to create natural privacy barriers
6. Renovation and repair of the exterior
Sometimes the most valuable upgrades are the ones that fix or modernize what’s already there. “Walkways are often overlooked, but they play a big role in how a home feels from the moment you arrive, says Caitlyn Szymanski with Residence landscape notes.
“Using updated paving styles, contrasting edging or permeable materials, homeowners can create a custom look without the expense of larger outdoor projects. It’s a smart, budget-friendly upgrade that provides both visual impact and everyday functionality.”
Additional high-end exterior enhancements include:
- Repairing cracked or stained concrete
- Repairing or replacing worn balustrades
- Renew exterior stairs
These updates signal to buyers that the home has been well maintained, reducing concerns about future repair costs.
7. Functional additions
Certain additions can add value if they are done thoughtfully and fit the market. “The easiest way to create an outdoor space that feels like an extension of our home is to designate zones,” says Sarah Symonds Grace in my space shares.
“The way you use your zones should be personal. Do you like fresh food? Create a garden or smaller vegetable garden in one zone. Do you like to entertain? Create an area dedicated to barbecuing and dining or an outdoor kitchen. If you have a large outdoor space, create an overall plan for the zones you include, then implement it on a manageable timeline and within a manageable budget.”
Examples include:
- Covered patios or screened porches
- Hot tubs or fire pits
A note on ROI versus lifestyle value
Not every outdoor upgrade provides the same return in every market. “Exterior upgrades that yield the greatest returns focus on how the space is used, not how much is spent,” says broker Then Ploughman partS.
“A simple patio or deck with defined seating and dining areas helps buyers immediately imagine how they would live in the space, creating an emotional connection and stronger offers if you’re looking to sell your home. Small updates like updated railings, privacy screens and a clear transition from the house to the garden make a backyard feel intentional and much more valuable without a major renovation. When the outdoor space functions as an extension of the home, it adds real perceived value.”
While some improvements, such as curb appeal and simple landscaping, tend to add broad value, others are more lifestyle-driven. Homeowners should consider how long they plan to live in the home and whether an upgrade will meaningfully improve the daily living experience. The best investments often strike a balance between personal use and future resale.
Make smart outdoor investments
When deciding where to invest, think like a buyer: What would make this home inviting, easy to maintain, and ready to enjoy from day one?
Outdoor upgrades don’t have to be extravagant to be valuable. Sleek design, functionality and low maintenance consistently outperform flashy additions. By focusing on curb appeal and smart exterior improvements, homeowners can increase their enjoyment of their home and its long-term value.
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