Home Sellers: 5 Exterior Features Buyers Want

If you're thinking about selling your home, now is the time to start making any necessary renovations and updates. While you might think you know exactly what needs to be done, it's smart to talk to a real estate agent before you get started. He or she will be able to tell you exactly which features are most popular with homebuyers so you can focus your time and money on the projects most likely to improve your bottom line.

While buyers often have varying priorities when it comes to a home's interior, most may want the same features on the outside. Investing in the following five projects will help increase the chances of selling your home for top dollar.

1. Exterior Lighting
   Illuminating the outside of your house with landscape lighting and spotlights can transform it from a beautiful home to one that's absolutely breathtaking. Not only will it bring attention to the home's architectural features and perfectly manicured lawn, but it also adds an element of safety that's highly desirable. Add solar-powered lights, motion-sensors, and smart lights to make an even greater impact.
2. Outdoor Patio
   If you have a large backyard, potential buyers will love imagining themselves relaxing outdoors with a cool drink in their hand. An outdoor patio and seating area expand your home's livable space, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
   
   Adding a well-designed concrete patio is one of the best ways to make your home appear larger without undertaking a major renovation. If you already have a patio, put the effort into repairing it and making it look as new as possible. This small project can bring a huge return on investment.
3. Firepit
   Homes with outdoor fire pits allow owners to enjoy spending time in the backyard almost all year long. A nice-looking firepit will entice homebuyers, especially if it runs on natural gas. Build a beautiful structure, and you're likely to recoup almost all of your investment in the form of a higher sale price.
   
   Before jumping into this project, make sure you're following all of the local ordinances and necessary safety precautions. The last thing you want to do is add something to your home that will cause you problems down the line.
4. Landscaping/Garden
   Even if you don't make any major changes to the outside of your home, paying attention to your landscaping and garden will have a major impact on its curb appeal. Fertilize your lawn, touch up the mulch, and trim your bushes and overgrown trees.
   
   Maintain your perennial flower beds and add some annuals for instant color. If you have unique plants around your home, consider labeling them as they might help attract the right kind of buyer. Finish your project by adding a water feature to make your yard feel like a relaxing oasis.
5. Outdoor Kitchen
   Outdoor living is hugely popular right now, making a great outdoor kitchen one of the most coveted features for home buyers. Depending on the scope of the project and the size and location of the home, sellers adding an outdoor kitchen can typically expect to break even or make as much as 20 percent back on their investment.
   
   When building an outdoor kitchen, you'll want to focus it around the grill and make sure you have plenty of counter space. Keep it simple and avoid adding extras like a pizza oven, as the new homebuyer might not want these features, causing them to be undervalued.

Most homeowners want a home exterior that looks good but is also functional. Make these adjustments to your home for sale's exterior and you'll be sure to attract more buyers.

• How to Make Your Entryway More Functional
• Small Kitchen Improvements With Big Impact
• How to Improve Water Efficiency Around Your Home
• Storage Solutions for Homes Without Large Closets
• Planning a Backyard Space for Entertaining
• Easy Ways to Reduce Household Noise Between Rooms
• How to Create a Functional Mudroom in Any Home
• Simple Upgrades That Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
• Smart Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home
• Spring Décor Updates to Brighten Your Home

• Simple Daily Habits to Maintain a Cleaner Home
• Don't Let Winter Win: How to Freeze-Proof Your Garage

• When Buying New Construction Makes More Sense Than Resale
• What to Look for in a Move-In-Ready Home
• What Buyers Should Know About Flood Risk and Insurance
• What Happens Between Offer Acceptance and Closing
• What First-Time Buyers Should Know About Property Surveys
• How to Spot Renovations Done Without Permits
• What to Know About Homeowners Associations Before You Buy
• Touring Homes With a Critical Eye: What Buyers Often Miss
• How to Evaluate a Neighborhood During Different Times of Day
• The Best Home Styles for Enjoying Spring Weather

• What to Do the First Week in Your New Home
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment

• Why Outdoor Lighting Improves Evening Showings
• How to Handle Multiple Showing Requests Efficiently
• What Sellers Should Know About Buyer Contingencies
• How to Prepare Your Home for Last-Minute Showings
• When a Price Reduction Can Help Restart Buyer Interest
• How Professional Photography Impacts Online Listing Views
• The Hidden Costs Sellers Should Plan For
• What Sellers Should Know About Appraisal Gaps
• How to Prepare Your Home for a Competitive Offer Situation
• Packing Tips for Sellers: Preparing for a Spring Move

• What to Store, Donate, or Toss Before Listing
• What Buyers Notice First in Listing Photos