Research has shown that the exterior of the home is just as important as the inside when buyers are shopping for a new home. According to Realtor.com 54% of women and 46% of men said that they would buy a home solely because of the livable outdoor space. The need to have beautiful landscaped areas has affected purchasing decisions by buyers across the country. People want to be surrounded by natural elements and love to spend time outdoors. Social media has driven these trends as buyers are referring to Houzz and Pinterest for design ideas. Builders have noticed that the demand for front and back porches, firepits, outdoor gas fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, creative patio spaces and landscaping have increased in popularity with new home buyers and they are ON TOP OF IT!
Outdoor kitchens are popular with home buyers who enjoy entertaining outdoors and it’s easy for social gatherings. Builders are designing patio kitchens to resemble the luxury of indoor kitchens with custom cabinet doors and outdoor refrigerators. Another feature are gourmet grills, interchangeable cooking stations and pizza ovens. Today’s modular kitchens are available for all budgets and you get more for your money without the expense of “building a kitchen with granite and stone”.
Large pavers and interlocking pave stones are hot right now along with stained and stamped concrete. Homeowners are always looking for ways to save on water and one way to do that is with artificial grass products. No need for watering, weeding or fertilizing. Gazebos or pergolas are great additions and give you year-round access to protect you from the elements. Plus you can add space heaters and ceiling fans to make it more inviting.
Adding a water feature is another popular trend, according to landscape architects, and is one of the most desired items in a landscape plan. They include fountains, water walls, and serene ponds. They distract the noise and attracts birds and butterflies.
No matter your budget, there are lots of ways to create a beautiful, functional and enjoyable outdoor living space.
Check out this picture of one of our home builder’s Shea Homes’ concept for Tehaleh: