August 5, 2015

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Outdoor living environments offer many great opportunities to welcome family and friends to your home. Most homeowners spend the majority of their attention building a home inside the house. While that’s a natural first step, it can be just as important to take advantage of potential square footage outside. This can mean a variety of decisions. Not sure where to start? Perhaps you want to boost the visual appeal or function of your outdoor space, or you want to find a way to draw others to new spaces? Here are a few simple suggestions that will offer a lasting return on investment for your property.

Outdoor Dining:
An outdoor cooking area is a fantastic way to increase the value and enjoyment of your property. If the idea of a second kitchen sounds overbearing, remember that you can keep it simple. A functional kitchen that doesn’t necessarily dominate your landscape can make all the difference for your outdoor area. With an outdoor kitchen, you can utilize a whole world of additional cooking options. Methods such as smoking, or the use of an open-flame offer unique meal alternatives to your family and guests. While a full-fledged outdoor kitchen can be quite pricey, keep in mind they do typically receive a very strong ROI (Return on Investment).

Warm up your Space:
Think of all the warmth and relaxation that comes with a fire. Introducing a fireplace to your outdoor area will make your family feel right at home during the summer and fall seasons. You could use brick, stones, dig a pit with a retaining wall, or purchase a fire-pit with easy mobility. A welcoming fireplace pairs well with cookouts, late night talks, or simply a warm place to share an evening.

Pergolas, covered porches, 3 season rooms & decks are great ways to add livable space to your home.

Architectural Features:
If you’re looking for a way to expand your living environment, decks and stone patios are a great way to add a breath of fresh air to your home. Building a gazebo, or adding a pergola or shade walls to your patio can add a classic style of beauty to your outdoor living space. These attractive hardscape features create a peaceful space to relax in the cool shade, provide a great place for a barbecue, or bring privacy to your hot tub. Looking for a way to unite your new outdoor living room to your existing home? A beautiful paver, natural stone, or flagstone walkway can be the perfect element to tie together your outdoor living environment. Creating your hardscapes using durable construction materials will ensure that they can be enjoyed for many years to come, adding value to your property.

These are all suggestions that help create a relaxing space to unwind with family and friends, enjoy the outdoors, or entertain guests. It’s important that each update you make offers a strong return, and these choices will bring exactly that. A warm, inviting outdoor area will impress a potential buyer if need be, and will keep your family feeling right at home; inside and out. The professional Realtors® of Mike Thomas Associates are dedicated to providing you with the tools you need to make your real estate dreams a reality.

#Home Owners #Investment

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