A tricked-out backyard could help you sell your home for $10,000 more

In today's competitive real estate market, every homeowner is looking for that edge to sell their home faster and for more money. According to new research from Zillow, the key might just be found in your backyard. Homes with tricked-out outdoor spaces featuring trendy amenities such as outdoor TVs, showers, and kitchens are commanding higher-than-expected sale prices, with some going for as much as 3.1% more than anticipated – that's an average of $10,749 on a typical U.S. home.

The demand for functional outdoor space has only intensified in the wake of the pandemic, and homebuyers are willing to pay a premium for it. Zillow's analysis of nearly 1 million home sales in 2023 revealed that six of the top 10 features contributing to higher sale prices are outdoor amenities. From outdoor showers to pizza ovens and bluestone patios, these backyard additions are catching the eye of prospective buyers and driving up home values.

But it's not just about the big-ticket items. Even smaller details can make a big difference. Trendy features like rounded corners and plant ledges are proving to be particularly attractive to younger first-time buyers, helping homes sell up to six days faster than expected. And if you thought quartz countertops and wine fridges were the epitome of luxury, think again. According to Zillow, soapstone countertops and beverage centers are now outperforming their counterparts, contributing to higher sale premiums.

Amanda Pendleton, Zillow's home trends expert, notes that these features serve as signals to buyers that a home is up-to-date and appealing. However, she cautions against installing these amenities solely for resale purposes, emphasizing that they should be viewed as indicators of a home's overall appeal.

When it comes to selling your home for top dollar, it's essential to highlight its unique features. But what works in one neighborhood may not necessarily resonate elsewhere. That's where the experienced team at MR10 Realty can make all the difference--- helping sellers identify the right features to showcase and devising creative marketing strategies to maximize a home's sale price..