There's a lot to love in the great outdoors

As the weather warms up many of us are appreciating our outdoor areas more than usual.

If you are thinking of selling this year or wondering what renovations might give you return on your investment, you might like to know that the two most popular areas that buyers tended to get excited about are the kitchen and outdoor entertainment spaces.

When it comes to the latter, there are any number of options – expansive decks, covered courtyards, small but clever patios, pergolas, pavilions, courtyards with cozy fireplaces, courtyards with pizza ovens, decks with horizon pools, and the list goes on.

Five popular outdoor looks that seem to grab buyers:

Indoor-outdoor entertaining

Sliding panels and bi-fold doors across the rear of the house, blending the indoors and outdoors, and then, moving seamlessly from the indoors to the garden

Outdoor kitchens

A large covered outdoor space complete with entertainment deck, outdoor kitchen or at least, a clever barbecue set-up.

Outdoor kitchens have become more of an expectation than an ‘I wish’. They are an extension of the kitchen, fully equipped to cook, serve and entertain.
For the basics, start with a barbeque with a good-looking server and cupboard space.

Using the same bench surface in the kitchen and outdoors adds to the seamlessness. For ‘lux, stone or marble is the look, though stainless steel still has its fans.

A complete outdoors

Extra ‘wow’ comes with a wall-mounted TV, large resort-look ceiling fans and restaurant-style heating, space for dining plus a lounge setting, all framed by a low-maintenance garden and good lighting.

Concrete finishes

Well finished concrete – sand-blasted, honed or polished – has proven popular indoors and out, and is natural, durable and low-maintenance. Remember to have it spotless for presentation.

Balcony basics

To be functional, the balcony needs to be an extension of the internal living space, and preferably at least two metres deep. There must be room to move comfortably around furniture, friends and plants!

Glass balustrade works best to take in views from upper levels, while an opaque or solid balustrade is often appreciated on a lower floor for 24/7 privacy.

Well-designed outdoor spaces generally add value, and an attractive deck, balcony, terrace or courtyard may make a pleasant difference to the final price you will achieve for your property.