What are Homebuyers Looking For in 2021?
Here Are the Hottest Outdoor Features
Whether there is still a nip in the air from the winter or the spring is fully upon us, the real estate market is going to be attuned to outdoor features this year. After all, with people spending more time at home to continue vigilance in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, a backyard oasis gains more appeal and use, giving families a new area to gather and friends a way to socialize safely. We checked in with the HomeLight top real estate agents survey for 2020’s Q4 to learn more about what agents predict will be the most valuable features in outdoor living on the housing market in 2021.
Outdoor Firepit
Top of the list was the ability to build a fire safely in a permanent fire pit, often incorporated into some kind of patio or other dedicated backyard space. A fire pit extends the seasons when being outdoors is most possible. While it is possible to add one yourself for relatively cheap, you'll get some good ROI by adding more permanent luxury touches, from strong fire-proof materials to a circular patio around the fire pit where deck chairs can be arranged to face the fire
LEARN MORE HEREPrivacy Fences or Hedges
Especially if lacking them makes it harder to feel like you have your yard to yourself, privacy hedges and fences are very popular this year. These features also help a lot for families with dogs who like to roam the backyard but not escape. This isn't likely to be a short-term benefit either, since having a solid fence also enhances curb appeal of the property and can be a real boon in a community where homes are built close together, offering an oasis or haven feeling in the backyard.
LEARN MORE HEREOutdoor Kitchen
With the growth of outdoor ovens, bars, and grills, entertaining outdoors has become an attractive option if you miss your dinner parties and socializing. Adding these features first and foremost for your family may add a lot of utility, but they could also be a standout feature for a future buyer.
Sun Shades and Awnings
Maximize outdoor living time by adding sun shades or a retractable awning. Some are large enough to let someone enjoy an outdoor space even during a light rain, and they can take the high heat of summer down just enough to make the backyard a nice place to enjoy a frosty beverage.
Deck or Patio
If you've thought about adding a deck or patio made out of composite material, this might be your year. Given the high prices for lumber, the relatively low maintenance and long life of composite made of recycled plastic makes for a great alternative, and can add some real appeal to a backyard that otherwise doesn't have a lot of pizzazz.
LEARN MORE HEREIf any of these features are already in your backyard, you're likely to have more buyers interested in them than usual this year - consider adding some of the top outdoor home design trends on the list if your backyard area could stand some sprucing up!
