Creating Back Yard Appeal

By: Gary Ashton

In selling a home it is imperative that a seller creates a significant amount of curb appeal for their home. Without this element it can be extremely difficult to garner the kind of attention that is necessary to distinguish one home from another on the real estate market. However, in creating curb appeal, one must not overlook the necessity of creating an overall "yard appeal" that includes the backyard and all the elements that make your yard a special place. The back yard is a real area of respite and relaxation for most families, it is also a place where kinds can play safely, families can gather and eat, and where the family dog spends most of their time.

There are several ways to improve the look of a backyard before listing a home. Think of your backyard as an area for curb appeal, without the curb. As with any yard staging, cleanliness is going to be a key factor.

Take some time to get rid of any accumulated junk that may be in the yard. Old building materials, bits of wood and branches any anything else that could clutter up a yard should be quickly removed. The next logical step is to take care of the lawn. This is a step that can take some time to get right so it pays to plan ahead. Start the process of bringing the lawn into top condition a month or two ahead of time so that it has time to take advantage of fertilizers and other growth and color enhancer's. The same foresight also applies to the gardens if there are any. Try to plan ahead and get flowers planted so that they will be ready and in full bloom for the summer shows. Also take the time to prune the trees and shrubbery in the yard. Finally you can work on the little things that will improve anyone's experience of being in the yard at any time of the day. This includes things like awnings, solar lanterns and other lighting as well as any other cosmetic touches that improve the yard's appearance.

Backyards are a huge part of any home's overall presentation. It is an area that lends itself to family gatherings and during the summer can function as an outdoor room, if set up properly. In areas where the summer seems to last all year, the yard is definitely a factor in a home sale. If the yard has something such as a pool or hot tub this becomes a focal point for the home and should be treated as such. Making your yard all that it can be will only serve to improve the home's presence on the market and increase the value to buyers.

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