Backyard Trends Homebuyers Are Looking For

By Danielle Gorski

Today’s real estate trends show that homebuyers are searching for homes with backyard spaces that blend eco-friendliness, functionality, and beauty to make the most of every square foot — and every dollar.

Before you put your home on the market, here are a few of the current backyard trends homebuyers are looking for.

1. Sustainable Landscaping

Homeowners are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious, so sustainable options that reduce waste — and save money — are becoming more popular. Here are some eco-friendly elements and how they contribute to a sustainable backyard:

• Rain gardens and drip irrigation capture and conserve water.
• Native and drought-tolerant plants require less water, reduce lawn maintenance, and lower water bills.
• Solar-powered lighting illuminates backyards.

Exposure to nature also helps reduce stress and anxiety, so homebuyers are increasingly favoring homes that incorporate greenery and low-maintenance plant life in the front and back lawns.

2. Outdoor Living Spaces

Covered backyard patios and porches are being turned into outdoor living rooms to make them part of homeowners’ daily lives. Cozy, comfortable outdoor spaces have become a must on many buyers’ home checklists.

Home decor can make these backyard spaces feel like an extension of the house. These rooms provide a touch of luxury and personalization and are furnished with traditional living room furniture:

• Coffee table
• Comfortable couches and armchairs
• Rug
• Home accessories and accents
• Fireplace
• Water feature
• Layered lighting
• Blankets
• TV

Weatherproof furniture made of aluminum or synthetic wicker can endure rain and wind, creating a personalized outdoor lounge for entertainment and relaxation. Outdoor heaters allow for nearly year-round use and entertainment in some areas.

3. Technology

Outdoor theaters that include a TV and soundbar, set inside a weatherproof entertainment center, are the perfect addition for a relaxing outdoor area. Homeowners can catch the latest game or settle in for movie night while enjoying the fresh air outside.

Smart technology is another popular trend. Yard features that can be managed via an app allow homeowners to control audio, lighting, water features, and irrigation, all with their phone.

4. Outdoor Cooking and Dining Areas

Everyone loves barbecue cookouts and backyard parties. These fun-filled gatherings are perfect for family reunions or neighborhood get-togethers, and homebuyers are increasingly seeking homes with outdoor kitchens and dining areas.

These outdoor dining spots are furnished with tables and chairs and can be used for backyard picnics or for entertaining guests. Outdoor kitchens can be decked out with many features, including a sink, counter and cabinet space, and mini fridge. As for cooking equipment, anything goes, from smoker to pizza oven to your dream grilling space.

5. Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lights highlight a backyard’s features, such as hardscaping, trees, and plants. Trends show a shift towards cozy, gentle lighting that sets a calming atmosphere rather than a single harsh light source.

Strings of LED lights to illuminate patio and seating areas, spotlights on trees, cozy floor lamps around seating, table lanterns, path lights — all create a welcoming, luxurious backyard environment. Well-placed lighting also adds a layer of safety to after-work showings if you’re selling your home during the off-season.

Eco-conscious homebuyers may seek backyard spaces with solar-powered lights to save on energy costs.

6. Privacy

No one wants to deal with prying eyes while relaxing in their backyard. Landscaping trends show homebuyers increasingly value private, enclosed yards away from the neighbors’ view.

There has been an increased interest in gated communities and tall privacy fences, and many homeowners want landscaping features that provide backyard privacy. Homebuyers who value both eco-friendliness and privacy might seek a living fence made of hedges or layered ornamental grasses.

A Place for Relaxation and Entertainment

Current trends show that homebuyers seek houses that blur the line between indoors and outdoors. There’s a demand for homes that make the most of their outdoor space, with eco-friendly, sustainable features that provide a sense of luxury and usability for every inch of their new home.

Looking for the home of your dreams with the perfect backyard? With Real Estate for Atlanta, you can find the latest opportunities in Atlanta’s real estate market, request a home evaluation, or talk to a real estate pro.

Danielle Gorski writes informative articles on lawn care and outdoor living. Her favorite outdoor trend is lawn decorating, something she enjoys doing each holiday season.