From water features and covered porches to cozy sitting areas with all-weather fabric, creating dreamy outdoor living spaces is a great way to add lifestyle and entertaining options to a home. The experts of the LCT Team – Parks share their top ideas for weaving pretty outdoor living areas and several of the homes are available!
Water Features – Pools, Fountains
Water features can really enhance an outdoor living space from providing relaxing sounds to providing relaxing relief from hot summer days which hit the 90s in Middle Tennessee!
Realtor.comsays pools with enough space around them for friends and family to lounge also gave home prices a 26% lift. LCT Team Realtor Megan Jones said her clients’ recent sale of their downtown Franklin home included a backyard oasis which will soon be repeated.
“A pool can be a real priority and it is so fun helping these clients purchase a beautiful home on an acre in theWater Leaf boutique community in Franklin. They’ll be adding a beautiful pool,” Megan said.
Fountains are also a nice addition which Megan said can buffer city noises or bring peace and relaxation.
The Porch
Nothing says slow down and enjoy life in the South more than a porch and clients are always on the lookout for one says LCT Team Realtor Amy Pappas.
“Isn’t the outdoor living area a top priority? Whether it is a spacious deck, covered porch, or screened porch, homeowners are always looking for the perfect outdoor living space to entertain friends or relax with family,” says LCT Team Realtor Amy Pappas.
Outdoor drapes, all-weather rugs, outdoor speakers and privacy are just some of the elements which help make a great porch or deck area.
Screen or not screened, LCT Team Realtor Marabeth Poolesays her family spends most of their time on their porch.
“Retracable screens are a smart idea and they help us enjoy the seasons so much more,” Marabeth said.
Plant Perennials For Yearly Fun
If you’ve moved into a new home in the winter, spring can be a season of surprises when perennials start popping up all over your yard. In Tennessee, a hearty perennial favorite is the state flower –the iris.
It’s also a great idea to plant a variety perennials which will bloom in different weeks throughout the spring, summer and fall including the firefly lily and the cone flower which has 60 to 100 varieties says Marabeth.
Lighting
Outdoor lighting can really enhance a home. Once you have it, you can’t imagine life without it says LCT Team Realtor Vickie Freas.
“Low-voltage landscape lighting can be inexpensive and helps to create a beautiful setting.The bonus is outdoor lighting also adds to the safety and security of a home.Illuminating sidewalks and steps is important for guests and a well-lit home can deter thieves,”Vickie said. “Lighting also brightens outdoor cooking and eating areas.“
Pet Safe, Outdoor Fabrics
Adding all-weather fabric to your outdoor living spaces makes them more comfortable and helps create cozy spaces saysLCT Team Realtor Lisa Culp Taylor. These fabrics can also be pet-friendly.
“There are great choices in stain and odor-resistant outdoor fabrics which repel moisture and can protect against bacteria. This helps you not worry when you share your space with your family pet,” Lisa said.
As ageneral rule for choosing pet-friendly fabrics, look for something with a tight weave. Also, patterns and textures help hide pet hair and dirt until you have a chance to clean.
Bonus Outdoor Feature – Vineyard, Fresh Fruit
One of LCT Realtor Michelle Chrest’s current listings, 1115 Wilson Pike, in Brentwood,has the ultimate in annual fun – a vineyard as well as raspberry, blackberries, peach and apple trees.
“When you pull through the gates of 1115 Wilson Pike, Brentwood, the grounds of the home are really the greatest outdoor feature.Located on 4.75 acres, this iconic home is the one everyone knows as the house with the big pond.With a lovely back covered porch, you can head to pick the fruit of your choice!” said Michelle.
Looking For A Real Estate Expert To Buy Or Sell?
If you are thinking of making a move this year, the experts of the LCT Team say now is the time to begin and shared tips in this recent blogand in this Tennessean story. Connect with the LCT Team – Parks today at 615.595.5883.