Outdoor Living Spaces: A Trend That’s Here to Stay

Written by Posted On Thursday, 29 November 2018 05:22
Outdoor Living Space Outdoor Living Space www.theplancollection.com

When buying a home you’re not just buying a house; outdoor living space is just as important to many homebuyers in 2018 - 2019 as many of the features inside the home. Most buyers know the approximate number of bedrooms they want and if they like an open floor plan, need a home office, or want a two-stall garage, but current trends suggest that buyers are taking a second look at what’s happening outside the home as well.

 

Following are some key features buyers look for in outdoor living spaces. Incorporate these into your home, and you may not only increase the resale value of your house but make it a more attractive property for potential buyers.

Outdoor Kitchens

Right now, outdoor living space ranks high on the priority list for many home seekers. And although outdoor living space is not included in the square footage of a home, it can often double the available space for you and your family’s needs. While having a separate dining room in addition to an eat-in kitchen is nice, some buyers forego the formal indoor dining room for a luxurious covered deck with plenty of room to enjoy meals in the open air.

 

Outdoor kitchens with a grill, sink, outdoor fridge, or drink cooler are features that add value and comfort. In addition, an outdoor bar may make your home the perfect location for hosting guests. Whether you’re single and having friends over for a dinner party, a young family grilling out, or an aging couple enjoying a home-cooked meal, being outside can improve the quality of life.

Extending the Use of Outdoor Living Spaces

Depending on your geographic location and amenities that enhance your space, outdoor living areas can often be used year-round. The inclusion of fans and shades can make a space more comfortable in the summer, while gas or wood fireplaces, outdoor heaters, or a simple fire pit can allow homeowners to relax in cooler weather in their outdoor lounge.

 

The addition of a hot tub or outdoor spa or sauna can also tempt homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space year round. Relaxing in your home spa after a hard day at work could be the perfect stress reliever.

Creating an Oasis in Your Outdoor Living Space

Your home is your sanctuary, and styling your outdoor living areas can be just as fun and innovative as decorating the inside of your home. Choosing the right plants to create ambiance and privacy is like selecting the right paint color or wallpaper. Maybe you envision fresh-cut flowers from your garden or edible landscaping. Having a small vegetable or herb garden in your outdoor living plan is something to consider.

Outdoor Living Space from a Realtor’s Perspective

When buying, selling, or building a house, make sure to focus not just on the interior of the home but the exterior as well. If you are selling a house, a lovely porch swing with a few throw pillows can be inviting and welcome potential buyers. Potted plants and landscaping could be the path to selling your home. It doesn’t matter if you have ten acres to work with or a small deck on your condo, people want outdoor living space – so help them envision having their morning coffee, reading the paper, enjoying their children at play in the yard, or watching the sunset all from their outdoor living spaces.

Outdoor Living Space: Endless Opportunities

Outdoor living spaces can span from low cost to luxurious. Beyond expanding to the usable space of the home, enhancing the exterior of the home can always contribute to curb appeal and value of the home. Features such as fountains, a pool or hot tub, hammock, gazebo, gardens, swings, or privacy fencing could create the elegance and purpose you envision for your dream home.

 

If you’re on a budget, investing in a simple deck, new shrubbery, or a walkway might expand – at little cost – how your outdoor space is used and appreciated. Something as simple as a garden bench or porch swing, for that picturesque family setting, is a fun addition to any yard. The investment of ivy that will grow along a path or up the home’s brick exterior can create a magical story all its own. Be creative; have fun; and seek the opportunity.

 

Remember, if you’re building or renovating your home, buying a new house, or selling a home; outdoor living space is a key factor to consider. A small investment can go a long way in how outdoor space is used or how fast you sell your house. Outdoor living areas are not just a trend, they’re a way of life.

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Timothy

Tim Bakke is Director of Publishing for ThePlanCollection.com. With more than 30 years of publishing experience
in magazines, books, and Web, Tim regularly writes on house plans, home design, new home construction,
home remodeling, and achieving your dream home.

https://www.theplancollection.com/

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