In Idaho's dynamic real estate market, a beautiful interior is only half the story. A well-designed backyard, patio, or deck can go far in this market, and it's often a key selling point that can significantly boost a home's value. That’s because homebuyers in Idaho Falls and Ammon are drawn to properties with inviting and functional outdoor spaces.
For sellers, understanding current homebuyer trends is crucial. Buyers want more than just a patch of grass; they need a space for relaxation, entertainment, and making memories. This guide explores the top outdoor features Idaho homes need to capture the hearts of potential buyers and maximize your return on investment.
Why Outdoor Living Spaces Matter to Eastern Idaho Buyers
The desire for outdoor living spaces has grown substantially in recent years. Today’s buyers are looking for homes that offer a seamless blend of indoor comfort and outdoor freedom. In Eastern Idaho, where the beauty of four distinct seasons is a major draw, a thoughtfully designed yard allows homeowners to enjoy everything from sunny summer afternoons to crisp autumn evenings.
For sellers, investing in the right real estate upgrades for your outdoor areas can directly impact your home's resale value. A property that offers an attractive and functional outdoor lifestyle is more likely to stand out in a competitive market, attract more offers, and sell more quickly.
Fire Pits and Outdoor Fireplaces
A fire feature instantly creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, extending the usability of your outdoor space beyond the warm summer months. It provides a natural gathering spot for family and friends to connect and unwind.
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Built-in vs. Portable: Built-in fire pits or grand outdoor fireplaces offer a permanent, high-end feel and can be a major selling point. However, even a stylish, high-quality portable fire pit can help buyers envision cozy evenings in their new backyard.
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Safety and Regulations: Before installing a permanent fire feature, it's essential to check the city codes for Idaho Falls and Ammon regarding setbacks, fuel types, and safety requirements to ensure compliance.
Patios, Decks, and Covered Seating Areas
A well-defined patio or deck serves as an outdoor living room, providing a solid foundation for furniture, dining sets, and container gardens. These structured spaces are high on the list for buyers looking for move-in-ready homes.
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Materials Matter: Investing in durable, attractive materials like stone pavers, stamped concrete, or low-maintenance composite decking can add significant value.
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Covered for Comfort: Pergolas, awnings, or covered patios are highly sought-after outdoor features Idaho homes should have. They provide essential shade during hot summer days and offer protection from light rain, making the space more versatile.
Smart, Low-Maintenance Landscaping
First impressions are everything, and beautiful landscaping is the key to stunning curb appeal. Buyers in Idaho appreciate yards that are attractive without requiring constant, intensive upkeep.
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Native and Water-Wise Plants: Choosing plants and flowers native to Idaho’s climate means they will be more resilient and require less water. This appeals to eco-conscious and budget-savvy buyers.
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Modern Garden Trends: Consider incorporating lawn alternatives like clover or durable ground cover, which reduce mowing and watering needs. Raised garden beds are also a popular feature for buyers interested in growing their own herbs or vegetables.
Outdoor Lighting and Ambience
Strategic lighting transforms an outdoor space, enhancing both its beauty and its safety after dark. Thoughtful illumination allows homeowners to enjoy their yard well into the evening.
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Eco-Friendly Options: Solar-powered path lights and energy-efficient LED string lights are affordable ways to add a magical glow to walkways, patios, and garden areas.
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Smart Technology: For a modern touch, consider installing smart outdoor lighting that can be controlled via a smartphone app. This is a simple upgrade that aligns with current homebuyer trends.
Outdoor Kitchens and Dining Spaces
An outdoor kitchen elevates a simple patio into a true entertainment hub. While a full-scale kitchen is a major investment, even a well-planned dining area can make a big impact.
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What Buyers Want: A built-in grill station with counter space is a popular starting point. Mini-fridges and dedicated storage are also highly valued. The goal is to create a functional setup that minimizes trips back and forth to the indoor kitchen.
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Investment vs. Return: In the Eastern Idaho market, a functional and stylish outdoor dining setup is often a more practical investment than a full luxury kitchen. It expands the home’s perceived living space and appeals to buyers who love to host.
Fencing, Privacy Screens, and Boundaries
Privacy is a top priority for most homebuyers. A secure and private backyard feels like a personal sanctuary, making it a more usable and desirable space.
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Material Choices: Wood and vinyl are popular fencing materials that offer both privacy and aesthetic appeal. Decorative privacy screens can also be a stylish and cost-effective way to shield a patio or hot tub area.
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Pet-Friendly Yards: A fully fenced yard is a non-negotiable feature for many buyers with pets, so be sure to highlight this selling point.
Bonus Features That Stand Out
Looking for that extra "wow" factor? Certain bonus features can make your home unforgettable.
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Relaxation and Recreation: Hot tubs, soothing water features (like a small fountain), or raised garden beds can set your property apart.
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Functional Add-Ons: A well-maintained storage shed or a small, insulated backyard office can be a huge draw, especially with the rise of remote work.
Showcase Your Outdoor Space When Listing
Once you've made the upgrades, make sure they get the attention they deserve.
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Professional Photos: As noted in our previous blog posts, professional real estate photography is a must. Capture your outdoor areas during the "golden hour" (early morning or late evening) for the best lighting.
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Seasonal Staging: Stage your patio with inviting furniture, potted plants, and clean cushions. If selling in the cooler months, turn on the fire pit for photos to showcase its year-round appeal.
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Highlight in Listings: Explicitly mention key outdoor features Idaho homes like yours offers in your property description. Words like "private fenced yard," "covered patio," and "custom fire pit" will attract the right buyers.
Maximize Your Outdoor Upgrades With Local Guidance
Before undertaking major renovations, it’s wise to consult with experts who understand the local market. At Grider & Peterson, we have years of experience helping homeowners in Idaho Falls and Ammon make smart real estate upgrades. We know what today’s buyers are looking for and can provide guidance on which improvements will deliver the best return on your investment.
By focusing on the features that matter most to Eastern Idaho buyers, you can create an irresistible outdoor oasis that adds significant value to your home.
Related Questions
What adds the most value to a backyard in Idaho?
In Idaho, features that extend the usability of the outdoor space across seasons add the most value. These include covered patios or pergolas, fire pits, and low-maintenance landscaping with native plants. Privacy fencing is also a high-value feature for many buyers.
Are outdoor kitchens worth the investment in Eastern Idaho?
A full luxury outdoor kitchen may not offer a one-to-one return in this market, but a well-designed outdoor cooking and dining area is highly desirable. A built-in grill station with counter space and a designated dining spot often provides a strong return by enhancing the home's lifestyle appeal.
How do I make my outdoor space more appealing to buyers?
Start by ensuring the space is clean, tidy, and well-maintained. Add a clear purpose to each area with staging—set up a dining table, arrange chairs around a fire pit, and add colorful potted plants. Good lighting and ensuring privacy can also dramatically increase appeal.
What landscaping trends are popular in Idaho Falls right now?
Popular trends include using native, drought-tolerant plants to reduce water consumption, creating defined garden beds, and replacing parts of the lawn with hardscaping or ground cover. Raised garden beds for vegetables and herbs are also in high demand.