Family-friendly homes with backyard amenities are in high demand
Article written by Erik J. Martin – Coloradoan 7-31-2021
If you’re preparing to sell a home, you’re sitting pretty right now. Shopper demand is through the roof, many offers are resulting in bidding wars, and low inventory continues to stack the deck against buyers.
But you’re in a particularly favorable spot if your property also boasts alfresco amenities that are currently popular with buyers. Your home may sell more speedily and/or at a higher price if your outdoor features check the right boxes.
“It’s surprising to me that backyards and these sorts of outdoor amenities are helping more homes sell for more and at a faster pace. Traditionally, it’s been all about the home’s square footage and the number of beds and baths. However, the pandemic has shifted priorities,” Jenny Usaj, owner/broker of Denver-headquartered Usaj Realty, explains.
“Many of the people moving and looking for a home today are those seeking more space after living through the coronavirus in a home that was too small for their needs. We’re all now appreciating the option of entertaining ourselves outside in our own yards.”
Backyards topping the list of preferred outside attributes make sense to Adam Graham, construction industry analyst for Fixr.com in Wilmington, Delaware. “Having a backyard allows homeowners an extra living space, and with features like outdoor heaters, fireplaces, and fire pits proving to be a popular trend, they’re available for use year-round,” he says. Likewise, a sandbox can be a welcome addition just beyond your back door. “It allows parents to keep children contained in one controlled but fun space, away from any potential hazards,” adds Graham.
Anna Lowder, co-founder/ co-developer of Hampstead, a new urbanist mixed-use development in Montgomery, Alabama, believes treehouses particularly stand out to families with age-appropriate children. “I think this amenity is unique and gives kids their personal play space and sense of autonomy. Having a private outdoor area like a treehouse can definitely help with your home’s resale value,” notes Lowder.
A hot tub/spa instantly creates a fun and relaxing environment that also offers health benefits. “Not all homes will have the space to install one in the bathroom, so outdoors is a good alternative. Plus, hot tubs can be used for fun social gatherings outside,” Graham continues. “In warmer climates, the value-added should be higher than in colder areas,” says Graham.
“Buyers living in cities in the southeast or along the West Coast, AND COLORADO, where you have warm weather for a good chunk of the year, want to enjoy an outdoor dining experience. Having an outdoor kitchen in place would also be appealing to anyone who loves cooking outside,” she suggests.
Another worthy consideration before listing your home? Build a patio. “Patios cost, on average, $4,960 to install and allow homeowners to enjoy gatherings like cookouts and implement an outdoor kitchen, firepit, and outdoor lighting,” Graham says.
