As a New Jersey homeowner, you are undoubtedly familiar with the charm and beauty that can be incorporated into your home. Your backyard presents an incredible opportunity to transform it into a space that seamlessly combines relaxation, entertainment, and natural beauty.
Not to mention, if you’re looking to sell your home, having a well-maintained yard, an attractive exterior, and functional outdoor living spaces can all add up to a boost in your home’s value. It’s often the small details that make the biggest difference to a potential buyer!
Or, if you’re not quite ready to sell, investing in outdoor upgrades you can enjoy now often results in a high return on investment later.
Keep reading for six different ways to elevate your backyard and turn it into your own personal oasis.
Make Your Yard More Functional
Adding function to your backyard is one of the best ways to boost your home’s value. Ask yourself the following questions when deciding what to revamp in your yard:
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Can you entertain?
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Is there a space for your kids to play?
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Do you want to add in a pool?
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Can you add in an exercise space?
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Do you want space to tinker on hobbies or in a garden?
Use landscaping, hardscaping, outdoor furniture, and other add-ons to create various zones to accommodate different yard activities.
Being around nature is one of the best ways to boost your mental health and reduce stress levels, so a functional living space will only further elevate how you spend your time outdoors.
Landscaping and Gardening
One of the most effective ways to transform your backyard is through thoughtful landscaping and gardening. And, if you’re considering listing your home, a good landscape design can add up to 20% to your home’s value.
Start by analyzing your space and envisioning the design that suits your tastes. Introduce native plants and flowers to your garden, as they will thrive better in New Jersey's climate and contribute to the ecosystem.
If you want to go above and beyond, consider installing a small pond or a water feature to add a soothing ambiance to the environment.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Embrace the natural beauty of New Jersey by extending your living space to the outdoors. Constructing a deck or patio is an excellent way to create an inviting area for outdoor dining and gatherings.
Choose high-quality, weather-resistant furniture that complements your home's aesthetic and allows you to comfortably enjoy the outdoors throughout the year.
Add a touch of coziness with outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and even an outdoor fireplace or fire pit for chilly evenings. Here are some of my favorite places to shop for outdoor furniture and decor:
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West Elm
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Crate & Barrel
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Pottery Barn
Also, I did some Pinterest research, so you don’t have to! Here are some of my favorite inspiration pictures for modern, stylish outdoor living spaces:
Add in a Swimming Pool
New Jersey's summers can get pretty hot, making a swimming pool or spa a highly desirable addition to your backyard.
A well-designed pool can not only provide a refreshing escape from the heat but also increase your property's value significantly. As mentioned in my “Pros and Cons of Having a Pool” blog, adding a pool can increase your home’s value as much as 7 percent. In a competitive market, you’ll want to add as many desirable amenities as possible!
Plus, New Jersey is home to so many exceptional landscaping companies, which I will happily connect you to – contact me for the full list!
Outdoor Kitchen and Barbecue Area
If you enjoy cooking and hosting outdoor gatherings, consider building an outdoor kitchen and barbecue area.
Here are two of my favorite fully-equipped outdoor kitchen sets from West Elm: The Portside Aluminum Outdoor Furniture Full Kitchen Set and the Build Your Own Outdoor Kitchen Set.
Having a fully equipped kitchen outside will not only save you trips back and forth but also allow you to entertain guests while preparing meals. Incorporate a bar and seating area to create a fantastic spot for socializing and enjoying the amazing New Jersey weather.
For more on how to host the perfect outdoor barbecue, check out my previous blog post, “Best Barbecue Ideas for a Great Neighborhood Cookout.”
Sports and Recreational Features
For the sports enthusiasts or families with active children, including recreational features in your backyard can be a game-changer.
Depending on the available space, you could install a basketball court, a mini soccer field, a volleyball net, or even a putting green. And they don’t have to break the bank, either! You can find several affordable options on Amazon:
Whether you choose to focus on landscaping, create an outdoor living space, add recreational features, or incorporate garden structures, the possibilities are endless.
By investing in your backyard, you're not only enhancing your quality of life but also increasing your property's value and appeal to potential buyers. If you’ve been considering selling your home (or you just want my list of recommended industry professionals), reach out below:
