NWI Real Estate Trends 2018: Outdoor Entertainment

NWI Real Estate Trends 2018: Outdoor Entertainment

There’s nothing better than good weather to bring people together! Whether that means pool parties for the kids or bonfires with friends in the evening, a comfortable outdoor space is essential for making people feel right at home.

“The majority are looking for a relaxing and comfortable place to spend time with their family and friends,” said Jeanne Sommer, owner and broker of Century 21 Alliance Group. “When the weather starts getting nice, people head outside to enjoy it, especially when a group of friends are over.”

Because of the popularity of these gatherings, spectacular outdoor spaces can truly sell a home. Bringing the outdoors in or adding comfortable components to make the outdoors more cozy are among the primary ways sellers can attract potential buyers.

“Some major features of outdoor entertainment include an outside jacuzzi, fire pit, fireplace, covered porches, swimming pools, and of course built in grills,” Sommer said. “Most of the areas include upholstered chairs, overstuffed pillows, hammock swings, and twinkling lights strung above your head...Many homes also feature a screened in porch or three seasons room that becomes an extension of their indoor space.”

With that, we are happy to give you the rundown on some of the most popular outdoor entertainment features:

Jacuzzi

Realty-Roundup-Outdoor-2018-2Also referred to as a hot tub, this warm public bath may seem like the opposite of what people are looking for in the heat of summer. The beauty of this feature, however, is that it can be used when the evenings get cooler and during the off-season when the weather is too cool for a swimming pool. Add some character by strategically landscaping around the hot tub and add lighting to help set the mood. Grab a cocktail and relax for a much needed, at-home spa treatment!

Fire Pit...or Fireplace?

Realty-Roundup-Outdoor-2018-3A blazing fire is all the rage for winter holidays; nevertheless, you can’t go wrong with an outdoor fire pit or fireplace for the summer! To further refine the space, pave the surrounding area with concrete, bricks, or stone, and add flexible seating options to make everyone comfortable. Both a fire pit and a fireplace can afford guests the opportunity to roast smores and hot dogs, tell ghost stories, and enjoy some acoustic tunes - all ingredients for togetherness!

Covered/Screened-In Porch

Realty-Roundup-Outdoor-2018-4Covered and screened in porches make it possible to enjoy the outdoors without getting caught in the rain. These comfortable spaces are perfect for the morning cup of joe, indulging in a good book, or getting some much needed “me time.” Furthermore, if you opt for the screened-in porch, you can potentially use the space for three whole seasons out of the year.

Swimming Pool

Realty-Roundup-Outdoor-2018-5By far the kids’ favorite, a swimming pool will guarantee neighborhood families stop by for a dip! While these do come with added maintenance, they are by far the best way to cool off on the steamiest of days. A bit of landscaping, pool accessories, and a platform deck will really top off the new addition!

Built-In Grill

Realty-Roundup-Outdoor-2018-6A grill is a no-brainer - without them, cookouts would become cook-ins! Create the ultimate cookout space by installing a built-in grill with all the fixins, including extra storage, serving counters, and lighting. This addition is more durable than mobile grills and can serve as the centerpiece for the space if done with a bit of flare.

Do all of these additions sound too good to be true? Fortunately, there are economic ways for each of these options. Simple retaining wall blocks can help make a permanent fire pit space and an above-ground pool is just as fun as an inground! Updating outdoor furniture with extra plush cushions can not only add comfort, but also encourage potential buyers to see just how cozy the space can be.

Whether you are taking on a big multi-week project or making a quick stop by the home decor store, it is definitely worth investing in your outdoor space. Happy remodeling!