Weekend Project or Value Killer? Read This Before You Start!

Don't give away your proceeds before you get them

Our backyards have become our personal sanctuaries, a place to relax, recharge, and maybe even show off your grill-master skills. But if you’re thinking about making some changes out there, take a quick pause before you break ground (or your budget).

Some backyard projects, and we may as add any projects, that seem like a dream can actually hurt your home’s value when it’s time to sell. Here are a few to think twice about.

Removing too much landscaping

Minimalist is in… until your home looks bare or unfinished. Sellers often strip out too many shrubs or trees thinking it will make the yard look “low-maintenance.” Instead, leave enough greenery to frame your home and soften the look, perhaps hide the foundation. It’s about balance, not barren.

A jungle of plants

Plant lovers, this one’s for you. While a lush yard is lovely, overgrown or mismatched vegetation can make your yard feel cramped and high-maintenance. Buyers don’t want to bring a machete to a showing. Keep it tidy, simple, and easily maintained.

DIY water features

Unless you’re secretly a landscape architect, it’s best to skip the homemade koi pond or fountain project. Poorly installed water features can become bug magnets or money pits (pun intended). Buyers often ask to have them removed before they’ll make an offer.

Fire features in awkward places

A cozy fire pit? Yes, please. A fire pit too close to your house or under a low tree branch? Not so much. Keep it at least 10 feet from any structure and surround it with safe, comfy seating. 

Personalized “permanent” playgrounds

Built-in trampolines, custom tiki bars, or oversized play structures may sound fun until you go to sell. Most buyers see them as expensive-to-remove projects, not perks. Go for something movable instead.

Too much concrete|stone

We all love a pretty patio, but turning your entire yard into a mini parking lot isn’t the vibe buyers want. Overdoing hard surfaces can cause drainage issues and “heat islands” that make your yard feel more like an oven than an oasis, especially here in North Carolina. Instead, balance your hardscape with some low maintenance greenery it’s easier on the eyes and the resale.

Bright exterior paint choices

Curb appeal matters, and while your neon turquoise front door might bring you joy, it might also scare off potential buyers. Stick to colors that complement your home’s style. For instance a orange front door may look perfectly fine in a mid century modern home but look out of character on a Tudor style house.

Bottom line

Before you take on any big outdoor project and especially if you’re planning to sell within the next year, please talk with your real estate agent. Your sellers agent advice can be invaluable when it comes to helping you protect your investment and make smart updates that boost your home’s appeal and bottom line.

Naomi Bjerke | Broker

Realty Boutique 704-931-3133