Owning a home in Orange County, California, is a dream come true for many. The stunning weather, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture make it a sought-after location to settle down. As a homeowner in this picturesque region, you’re not only blessed with natural beauty but also the opportunity to enhance your property’s value through strategic outdoor upgrades.
In this article, we’ll explore ten outdoor upgrades that can significantly increase the value of your Orange County home.
1. Outdoor Fire Pit
One of the most enjoyable ways to spend a summer evening is gathered around a fire pit, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. According to the NAR and NALP, an outdoor fire pit can bring you a remarkable 67 percent return on investment. With an average cost of around $6,000, including a gas burner and patio area, you can recoup approximately $4,000 when you decide to sell your home.
2. Garage Door Replacement
Your garage door might not seem like a big deal. But it significantly influences your home’s curb appeal and value. A garage door replacement, which costs around $3,600, can yield an impressive return of nearly 98 percent. When potential buyers arrive, your home will make a stellar first impression.
3. Front Door Upgrade
While making cosmetic changes to your home’s facade, don’t forget the front door. Swapping out a drab door for a steel unit with window panels, casing, and new hardware costs approximately $1,800. With this, the estimate return is of nearly 75 percent. An impressive entryway sets a positive tone for the entire home tour.
4. Lawn-Care Program
A lush lawn enhances your home’s curb appeal and market value. The NAR and NALP recommend six annual applications of lawn fertilizer and weed control. This costs around $375 for a 2,835-square-foot lawn. Your efforts can increase your home’s value by $1,000, translating to a remarkable 267 percent return on investment.
5. Exterior Siding Replacement
Replacing exterior siding, particularly on the front of your home, can significantly boost its value. Focus on using manufactured stone veneer, which can cost around $9,000 but has a projected return of 95 percent, according to Remodeling Magazine.
6. Landscape Enhancement
A beautifully landscaped yard can increase the chance of selling your home and offer an 83 percent return on investment, as per the NAR and NALP. Consider a “landscape upgrade” that includes a natural flagstone walkway, stone planters, mulching, and planting flowering shrubs and a sizable tree. On average, this will cost around $6,000.
7. Wooden Deck Addition
Enjoying the outdoors is a way of life in Orange County, and a wooden deck can be a major selling point. A 16′ x 20′ wood deck with stairs and railings may cost about $13,333 but can yield a return of almost 76 percent.
8. Backyard Patio Installation
Expanding your outdoor living area with a patio not only enhances your lifestyle but also increases your home’s value. An 18′ x 20′ concrete paver patio typically costs around $7,200 and can bring a return of approximately 69 percent, according to the NAR and NALP.
9. Outdoor Kitchen Addition
While an outdoor kitchen may not be a must-have for all buyers, it can be a game-changer. The NAR and NALP suggest that an outdoor kitchen project, which may cost around $14,000, can yield an estimated return of $10,000. A simple setup with an inset grill, stainless steel drawers, an ice chest, sink, and 60 square feet of concrete countertop can maximize your ROI.
10. Install Outdoor Lighting
Installing outdoor lighting offers both functional and visual advantages. It acts as a deterrent to potential intruders while also conjuring a captivating atmosphere in your outdoor space. Also, it elevates the curb appeal. Though the initial cost may reach up to $5,000, as per data from NAR and NALP, you can anticipate an average return on investment of 50 percent.
Each of these ten outdoor upgrades provides a compelling return on investment, making them valuable enhancements for your Orange County home. From enjoying your outdoor fire pit to hosting gatherings in your open-air kitchen, these upgrades enhance your lifestyle and boost your property’s value. By meticulously choosing upgrades that align with your preferences and budget, you can bask in the finest aspects of Orange County living while ensuring a promising return on your investment.
Explore 5 Tips For Creating The Best Outdoor Living Space In Southern California for more inspirational ideas.
