When homeowners think about expanding the value of a property, they often focus on kitchens and bathrooms. But external development can have an impact and sometimes even more. Curb appeal, usable outdoor living space, and low maintenance improvements all play a big role in how buyers perceive a home. In this Redfin guide, whether you’re planning to sell your home in San Diego, CA, or investing in long-term value in your home in Columbus, OH, we’ll highlight the outdoor improvements that consistently deliver the best returns.
High-impact exterior improvements that add value
Photo courtesy of Andrew Thron Improvements
1. Complaint prevention enhancements
First impressions are important. Buyers often decide how they feel about a home before they even step inside. “If you’re looking for the best way to add long-term value to your home, I always recommend starting with curb appeal,” says Andrew Thron of Atimprovements.com. “Simple improvements like re-plastering worn concrete, a refreshing front-end renovation, or painting the front door can quickly improve the way a home is perceived.”
He adds, “While cosmetic improvements are important, the greatest value often comes from the most significant exterior projects. In one of our most recent buildings, we replaced the front porch and added a gable roof overhang, which completely changed the exterior of the home and increased the overall value of the building.”
The development of a high impact appeal includes:
- New exterior paint or updated side accents
- A modern front door or upgraded garage door
- Clean, well-defined landscaping with clipped hedges and annual plants
- Updated house numbers, lights, and mailbox
2. Landscaping and hard planning
Thoughtful landscaping adds both beauty and functionality. Well-designed outdoor spaces feel like an extension of the house, and buyers are especially drawn to landscaping that looks polished but doesn’t require extensive maintenance.
Improvements that often add the most value:
- Garden beds defined by stone or concrete
- Walkways made of pavers, stone, or stamped concrete
- Low maintenance plants and native vegetation
- Maintaining walls that improve water flow and usable space
3. Decks and balconies
Outdoor living spaces are highly desirable, especially as consumers increasingly appreciate places to entertain and relax at home.
“Exterior improvements such as adding a patio, deck, or functional living space can greatly improve the everyday enjoyment and resale value of a home,” Cecille with Farmhouse Kitchen and Bath details. “Incorporating low-maintenance landscaping, outdoor lighting, and durable materials ensures that the property is attractive and usable year-round. Homeowners can also focus on budget-friendly improvements that increase ROI, such as potted plants, built-in benches, or simple outdoor kitchens, without a complete renovation.”
Best ROI options:
- Pressure treated wood floors or composite decking
- Low or high floors with light fittings
- Concrete or paved patios have seating and dining areas
4. Outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting improves both aesthetics and safety, two things that consumers care deeply about. “Adding budget-friendly lighting to your outdoor spaces is an easy, rewarding DIY project that lets you enjoy your yard after the sun goes down,” Lauren Kim and Mother Home Guide explains.
“The right lighting can add both fun and comfort, especially if you choose sets with remotes that allow you to schedule on/off times or even change colors. There are all kinds of decorative lights to enjoy, including twinkling fairy lights or fireflies that can move in the wind.”
Other value-adding lighting upgrades include:
- Street lights along walkways and driveways
- Accent lighting for landscaping and architectural features
- Motion sensor lights for security
Darby Chastain, as well Houses in Providence HillWe echo the sentiment that lighting is a profitable investment. “One of our biggest recommendations is to invest in good lighting. From outdoor lighting to ambient lighting, these small, inexpensive updates can make a big impact.
Lighting can be as simple as adding a few well-placed lights to your front yard to enhance evening street appeal. For patios and outdoor living spaces, we suggest vintage Edison string lights. They create a warm, inviting atmosphere and transform your space into an outdoor living space.“
5. Privacy and fencing
Privacy is a big selling point, especially in urban and suburban areas. Enhanced privacy helps consumers imagine enjoying their outdoor space without feeling exposed.
Consider improvements like this:
- Wood or vinyl privacy fence
- Decorative screens or lattice panels
- Strategic landscaping to create natural privacy barriers
6. Repairs and exterior repairs
Sometimes the most important improvements are the ones that improve or improve what already exists. “Walkways are often overlooked, but they play a huge role in how a home feels from the moment you arrive, Caitlyn Szymanski and Hometown Landscape notes.
“Using updated paver styles, unique borders, or permeable materials allows homeowners to achieve a custom look without the expense of major exterior projects. It’s a smart, budget-friendly upgrade that delivers both visual impact and everyday functionality.”
Additional high value exterior upgrades include:
- Replacing cracked or stained concrete
- Repair or replacement of worn out instruments
- It updates the exterior floors
These updates show buyers that the home has been properly maintained, which reduces concerns about future repair costs.
7. Active supplements
Other additions can add value if they are thoughtfully designed and appropriate for the market. “The easiest way to create an outdoor space that feels like an extension of our homes is to choose places,” Sarah Symonds no. Grace in My Space shares.
“How you use your spaces should be personal. Do you like fresh food? Create a garden or small kitchen garden in one space. Do you like to entertain? Create a BBQ and dining area or an outdoor kitchen. If you have a large outdoor space, create a big picture plan for the spaces you will install, and implement it on a manageable timeline and budget.”
Examples include:
- Enclosed balconies or screened-in balconies
- Hot tubs or fire pits
Note ROI versus lifetime value
Not all external developments bring the same returns in all markets. “Exterior improvements that bring greater return focus on how the space is used, not how much is used,” Realtor Dan Plowman to shares.
“A simple porch or deck with defined living and dining areas helps buyers quickly see how they will live in the space, which drives an emotional connection and strong offers, if you want to sell your home. Small updates like refinished irons, privacy screens, and a clear transition from home to yard make the yard feel more purposeful and important without an actual home renovation, without a major home renovation. tangible value.”
While some improvements, such as curb appeal and basic landscaping, tend to add extensive value, others are more driven by lifestyle. Homeowners should consider how long they plan to stay in the home and whether improvements will reasonably improve daily enjoyment. The best investment is often a balance between personal use and future resale appeal.
Making smart foreign investments
When deciding where to invest, think like a buyer: What will make this home feel inviting, easy to maintain, and ready to enjoy from day one?
Outdoor improvements don’t have to be extravagant to be valuable. Clean design, functionality, and low maintenance always add up to luxury. By focusing on attractive landscaping and smart exterior improvements, homeowners can increase the enjoyment of their home and its long-term value.
