However, the outdoor area around a house is more influential in the perceived and market value of a home than most people realize. The first impression a buyer has of a property comes when they first see it from the street. It becomes stronger or weaker as they view the exterior spaces. 

Here are some outdoor elements that can significantly boost your home’s value:

Glass balustrades

A glass balustrade can help create an open connection between the interior spaces and exterior. Yet still comply with all safety codes and regulations for decks, balconies and pool surrounds. On the other hand, timber or metal railings would otherwise partition the space and block sight lines. 

The impact on the perceived size of a deck or balcony is immediate. A deck or balcony with a glass balustrade will appear to be:

• Larger
• Lighter
• Airy
• More contemporary. 

Glass balustrades are a sign of quality craftsmanship and design intent. From a property value perspective, this is what property buyers expect to find throughout the rest of the home. They also require very little upkeep as opposed to timber.

An entertainment patio or deck

This is a very functional addition to a home. Potential buyers always appreciate and value the usable space. A well-balanced, soundly constructed and oriented deck will actually increase the value of the home, which will be reflected in the interest it generates among buyers. 

The materials are as important as the size. Use:

• Composite decking
• Quality timber 
• Natural stone.

These materials are better suited to the long term.

A well-manicured garden

A green front yard has a powerful impact. It determines how the viewers will feel about the rest of the house. 

So ensure:

• Strategic planting that provides privacy
• Seasonal colour 
• A sense of established maturity.

These landscaping aspects consistently add value in ways that are difficult to quantify but immediately felt during an inspection.

Outdoor lighting

Place outdoor light fixtures strategically. This can make a property appear and feel inviting at night. It is among the most value-adding features available. Consider:

• Path lighting
• Spotlighting garden beds
• Ambient lighting throughout entertaining areas.

Properties with inviting, well-lit exteriors make a better impression. Especially during evening inspections.

A swimming pool or plunge pool

A well-maintained swimming pool remains one of the most desired outdoor features a residential property can offer in the Australian market. The appeal is instant and emotional.

Buyers instantly imagine a lifestyle that extends far beyond the walls of the house itself. They can entertain on the weekend and enjoy summer afternoons without limits.

Suppose you have a large, spacious property, consider a full-size pool. It can serve as a real focal point. For smaller blocks, consider a plunge pool or compact lap pool. It will provide similar lifestyle appeal. But in a fraction of the footprint. 

Both options add meaningful value. But only when the pool is properly finished. Remember that it should be safely fenced and well-maintained.

An outdoor fireplace

This feature extends the usefulness of an outdoor entertaining area. You can use it during the cooler months. It creates a natural gathering point that adds real character to a backyard. 

Buyers respond to properties with outdoor spaces. They feel inviting and usable year-round. A well-positioned fire feature is one of the best ways to convey that quality during an inspection.

Statement elements in your garden

Imagine a well-designed water feature in your garden. It could be:

• A fountain
• A reflecting pool 
• A simple water blade on the wall.

The sound of moving water creates calmness that buyers instinctively respond to. It also creates a visual impact. A thoughtfully placed feature gives a garden a focal point. Hence, the space feels well designed.  

Consider other statement garden elements such as:

• Sculptural plants
• Feature trees 
• Defined garden beds
• All-season flowers.

These elements indicate a well-cared-for outdoor space. Just as the interior of the home.

Alfresco dining and outdoor kitchen

An outdoor kitchen takes the art of alfresco entertaining to a high level. It is increasingly sought by buyers of premium properties. Think of an outdoor kitchen with:

• A built-in barbecue
• A preparation bench
• Sink
• Sufficient shelving.

These features offer a truly functional cooking space, making outdoor entertaining a breeze.

You can pair the outdoor kitchen with a covered dining room that can accommodate a whole group of guests. This turns into an extension of the home’s living and entertaining space. 

This feature is especially powerful during property inspections as it instantly enables buyers to imagine themselves using it. Buyers directly factor it into their assessment of lifestyle value. 

A pergola

A well-thought-out pergola creates a defined outside space. It extends the seasons for entertaining and unwinding. Something that buyers truly enjoy. 

A pergola offers cover. It makes an outdoor area truly useful for a greater portion of the year. Unlike an open deck that is completely exposed to the elements. 

To maximize the use of the space, you can add:

• Outdoor furniture
• An outdoor kitchen
• A fireplace.

A well-constructed pergola turns what may otherwise be an unused backyard into an alluring lifestyle element. 

A privacy fence and screening

A fenced property feels private and secure from the street and from neighboring blocks. It is more attractive to buyers than one that feels exposed. It could be made of:

• Powder-coated aluminium
• Timber
• Rendered masonry 
• A combination.

A good fence crisply defines the property boundary. It contributes to the order and presentation that buyers respond to during an inspection.

You may also consider privacy screening along shared borders and thoughtful planting. It softens fence lines. But without sacrificing security. It greatly improves the overall feel of the outdoor space.

Final thoughts

Investing in the appropriate outdoor features yields benefits that well outweigh the cost of the amenities themselves. Both in terms of everyday enjoyment and the price a property fetches when it comes time to sell.