The outdoor space is a major consideration for homebuyers in Australia across all property types. The quality of an outdoor space is not only a determining factor in the sale of a property, but can also add significant value to the home’s value.
Simon Pilcher of McGrath Inner West observes that the addition of an outdoor living area leading off the indoor entertaining area can make a big difference to the overall value of the home.
Builder Dean Harris, who has been renovating homes for nearly 30 years in Sorrento, Victoria, observes a definitive trend towards the upgrade of outdoor areas into more indoor-outdoor living. Describing the outdoor area as an emotional driver for buyers who are already sold on the lifestyle it offers, he says the money spent on a well-designed all-weather space brings its returns when the sale sign goes up.
Brisbane couple Will and Karlie, who took the major title on The Block in 2016 with their ground floor apartment boasting a garden, were equally successful in its sale. Their auctioneer, Biggin and Scott’s David Lack, attributed their success at auction to the apartment’s ground floor position, outdoor entertaining area and house-like proportions.
Brisbane architect Shaun Lockyer of Shaun Lockyer Architects observes that the outdoors have become a fundamental part of home design, rather than something that’s just built and tacked on to the outside.
The outdoor space trend is not limited to freestanding homes; a realestate.com.au study reveals that 46% of Queenslanders looking to buy a new unit are most interested in those with outdoor entertainment spaces, with a further 26% identifying landscaped gardens with barbecues as a key factor.
Consider the following if you want to maximise the value of your home:
1. How well does the outdoor space integrate with the indoor areas? Is the flow seamless?
2. Is the outdoor space comfortable in most weather situations and can it be used for most of the day? Is there ample space, airflow, shade and amenity?
3. Does it enhance the property? (If your outdoor space detracts from the rest of your home, it may do more harm than good.)
4. Does the home exterior impress? If the home’s ‘wow’ statement appeals only to you, this will deter buyers, so think of a broad market of target buyers and ensure that fixed features such as fountains and pergolas aren’t too dramatic or dominating.
If you are considering the addition or upgrade of an outdoor entertaining area, consult with Vanguard Blinds, a specialist provider of sun, weather and privacy protection solutions.
