Outdoor Upgrades that Add the Most Value to Your Home

When homeowners think about increasing property value, they often focus on kitchens and bathrooms. But outdoor upgrades can be just as impactful and sometimes even more so. Curb appeal, usable outdoor living space, and low-maintenance improvements all play a major 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 at your property in Columbus, OH, we’ll highlight outdoor upgrades that consistently deliver the best return.

High-impact outdoor upgrades that add value

Image courtesy of Andrew Thron Improvements

1. Curb appeal enhancements

First impressions matter. 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 upgrades like resurfacing worn concrete, refreshing front landscaping, or painting the front door can instantly improve how a home is perceived.” 

He adds, “While cosmetic improvements matter, the biggest value often comes from more substantial exterior projects. On one of our recent builds, we replaced the front porch railing and added a gable roof overhang, which completely transformed the home’s exterior and boosted the overall value of the property.”

High-impact curb appeal upgrades include:

• Fresh exterior paint or updated siding accents
• A modern front door or upgraded garage door
• Clean, well-defined landscaping with trimmed hedges and seasonal plants
• Updated house numbers, lighting, and mailbox

2. Landscaping and hardscaping

Thoughtful landscaping adds both beauty and function. Well-designed outdoor spaces feel like an extension of the home, and buyers are especially drawn to landscaping that looks polished but doesn’t require extensive upkeep.

Upgrades that tend to add the most value:

• Defined garden beds with stone or concrete edging
• Walkways made from pavers, stone, or stamped concrete
• Low-maintenance plants and native greenery
• Retaining walls that improve drainage and usable space

3. Decks and patios

Outdoor living areas are highly desirable, particularly since buyers increasingly value spaces for entertaining and relaxing at home. 

“Outdoor upgrades like adding a patio, deck, or functional seating area can greatly enhance both everyday enjoyment and home resale value,” Cecille with Farmhouse Kitchen and Bath details. “Incorporating low-maintenance landscaping, outdoor lighting, and durable materials ensures the space is both attractive and practical year-round. Homeowners can also focus on budget-conscious upgrades that maximize ROI, such as potted plants, built-in benches, or simple outdoor kitchens, without a full renovation.”

Best options for ROI:

• Pressure-treated wood decks or composite decking
• Ground-level or elevated decks with simple railings
• Concrete or paver patios with room for seating and dining

4. Outdoor lighting

Exterior lighting improves both aesthetics and safety, two things buyers care deeply about. “Incorporating budget-friendly lighting into your outdoor spaces is an easy, rewarding DIY project that lets you enjoy your yard well after sunset,” Lauren Kim with Mom Home Guide explains. 

“The right lighting can add both fun and convenience, especially when you choose sets with remotes that allow you to schedule on/off times or even change colors. There are all sorts of decorative lights you could enjoy, including dainty fairy lights or firefly ones that will sway in the wind.”

Other value-boosting lighting upgrades include:

• Pathway lighting along walkways and driveways
• Accent lighting for landscaping and architectural features
• Motion-sensor lights for security

Darby Chastain, with Providence Hill Real Estate, echoes the sentiment that lighting is a worthwhile investment. “One of our biggest recommendations is investing in great lighting. From exterior uplighting to ambient patio lighting, these small, inexpensive updates can make a big impact. 

Uplighting can be as simple as adding a few well-placed spotlights in your front yard to boost evening curb appeal. For patios and outdoor living spaces, we suggest the classic Edison bulb string lights. They create a warm, inviting atmosphere and transform your space into an outdoor retreat.”

5. Privacy and fencing

Privacy is a major selling point, particularly in suburban and urban areas. Privacy upgrades help buyers imagine enjoying their outdoor space without feeling exposed.

Consider upgrades such as:

• Wooden or vinyl privacy fencing
• Decorative screens or lattice panels
• Strategic landscaping to create natural privacy barriers

6. Exterior renovations and repairs

Sometimes the most valuable upgrades are the ones that fix or modernize what’s already there. “Walkways are often overlooked, but they play a huge role in how a home feels from the moment you arrive, Caitlyn Szymanski with Hometown Landscape notes. 

“Using updated paver styles, contrasting borders, or permeable materials allows homeowners to achieve a custom look without the cost of larger outdoor projects. It’s a smart, budget-friendly upgrade that delivers both visual impact and everyday functionality.”

Additional high-value exterior improvements include:

• Resurfacing cracked or stained concrete
• Repairing or replacing worn railings
• Updating exterior stairs

These updates signal to buyers that the home has been properly maintained, reducing concerns about future repair costs.

7. Functional additions

Certain additions can add value if they’re done thoughtfully and suit the market. “The easiest way to create an outdoor space that feels like an extension of our homes is by designating zones,” Sarah Symonds with Grace in My Space shares. 

“How you use your zones should be personal. Do you love fresh food? Create a garden or a smaller-scale kitchen garden in one zone. Love to entertain? Create a zone dedicated to BBQ and dining or an outdoor kitchen. If you have a large outdoor space, create a big-picture plan for the zones you’ll include, then implement it on a manageable timeline and budget.”

Examples include:

• Covered patios or screened-in porches
• Hot tubs or fire pits

A note on ROI vs. lifestyle value

Not every outdoor upgrade delivers the same return in every market. “Outdoor upgrades that deliver the biggest return focus on how the space is used, not how much is spent,” Realtor Dan Plowman shares. 

“A simple patio or deck with defined seating and dining areas helps buyers immediately picture how they would live in the space, which drives emotional connection and stronger offers, if you are looking to sell your home. Small updates like refreshed railings, privacy screens, and a clear transition from the home to the yard make a backyard feel intentional and far more valuable without a major renovation. When outdoor space functions like an extension of the home, it adds real perceived value.”

While some improvements, like curb appeal and basic landscaping, tend to add broad value, others are more lifestyle-driven. Homeowners should consider how long they plan to stay in the home and whether an upgrade will meaningfully improve day-to-day enjoyment. The best investments often strike a balance between personal use and future resale appeal.

Making smart outdoor investments

If you’re deciding where to invest, think like a buyer: What would make this home feel inviting, easy to maintain, and ready to enjoy from day one?

Outdoor upgrades don’t need to be extravagant to be valuable. Clean design, functionality, and low maintenance consistently outperform flashy additions. By focusing on curb appeal and smart exterior improvements, homeowners can increase the enjoyment of their home and its long-term value.

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