6 Exterior Upgrades That Boost Property Value
When homeowners think about increasing property value, the usual suspects come to mind: kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, and maybe adding a bedroom. But what about what's happening outside the four walls? Let's talk about exterior upgrades that boost property value.
The exterior of your home has just as much potential to add real value, and make life a lot more enjoyable in the process. Whether you're looking to sell in a few years or just want to love your space a little more, investing in outdoor upgrades can bring both financial return and daily satisfaction. Here's what's worth your time and budget right now.
An Outdoor TV Turns Your Yard Into the Place to Be
Few upgrades transform your backyard from a someday project into a weekend destination quite like an outdoor TV. Not just any screen will do, though. A TV made specifically for the outdoors holds up against weather and sunlight without sacrificing picture quality, which is crucial if you plan on using it regularly. Think Friday night football, movie nights with the kids, or even background visuals for a party.
The right outdoor TV makes your backyard feel like an extension of your living room. And that's what buyers and guests notice, a property that's built for living, not just existing.
Metal Fencing is the Best Choice for Style and Security
When it comes to protecting your home, the right fence can make a big difference. Metal fences made of steel or wrought iron can help you mark property boundaries and also offer better security to homeowners. A well-built metal fence acts as a strong visual and physical barrier, which can help deter trespassers, reduce the risk of theft, and keep unwanted visitors out of your yard. For families, that added protection can feel especially important, whether you're keeping pets safe or making sure kids stay within view.
At the same time, you don't have to sacrifice style to get that level of safety. Metal fences come in a range of designs that suit both classic and modern homes, from ornamental wrought iron to sleek, simple lines. These designs can easily fit in no matter the look you're going for.
A New Front Door Makes a Difference
A worn-out front door can drag down your home's whole look, while a well-chosen upgrade becomes a focal point that frames the entire facade. The front door sets the tone before anyone even walks in, so it's worth treating it like the important design piece it is.
A bold color can add personality, while upgraded materials like steel, fiberglass, or solid hardwood, improve insulation and security. Features like sidelights or glass panes can increase natural light in the entryway without sacrificing privacy. And from a cost perspective, it's one of the most budget-friendly projects that consistently shows a high return on investment.
Patio Lighting
Strategic lighting can take an underused patio and turn it into a favorite evening hangout. There's a reason that outdoor restaurants and bistros use warm, layered lighting. It's because it works. When you apply that same thinking to your backyard or patio, you don't just add ambiance, you make the space usable after dark.
Whether it's string lights overhead, lantern-style wall sconces, or subtle ground lighting along pathways, good lighting extends your living space and changes how you experience it. The right mix can highlight landscaping, create conversation zones, and improve visibility without feeling harsh or industrial.
What Landscaping Does for Property Value
Landscaping isn't just about throwing down some mulch and planting a few flowers. It's about creating a sense of flow and personality around your home. The right design can make a yard feel bigger, more cohesive, and more intentional.
Trees and shrubs provide privacy and shade. Native plants reduce water bills and are easier to maintain. Walkways and raised beds add structure without being too formal. Even small upgrades, like a gravel sitting area or a stone-edged flower bed, can create zones that encourage people to gather, relax, or explore.
A Covered Porch or Pergola is Worth the Investment
A covered space adds function and structure to your yard, offering shade on hot days and shelter when weather turns. It encourages regular use of your outdoor area, turning it into a go-to spot for reading, relaxing, or hosting a weekend barbecue.
Pergolas, decks, and covered porches also boost the architectural appeal of your home. They add dimension and depth, which makes the home feel more custom-built. Regardless of which type of outdoor structure you go for, it's important that you think about regional factors. For example, a deck builder in Flagstaff (Arizona) will design the deck for shade and heat resistance. A State College deck builder (Pennsylvania) will build the deck with durability and weatherproofing in mind to resist harsh winters and more than average levels of precipitation. That's why it's always best to work with a local builder.
