1. Overly Personalized Landscaping or Themed Gardens Why it can decrease value: I've seen this a lot; homeowners get creative with their outdoor spaces, adding things like Zen rock gardens, themed statues, or even desert-style landscaping in a tropical area like Naples. While it may feel like a fun expression of personality, highly customized or climate-inappropriate gardens can actually turn buyers off. Most people want a clean slate where they can envision their own style, and these types of features often feel too specific or out of place. Even worse, buyers may see it as something they'll have to undo, and that's a red flag. What to do instead: Stick with classic, well-designed landscaping that feels intentional but neutral. Native plants that thrive in your region are always a win, and clean lines with well-maintained hedges, lighting, and hardscaping go a long way. I always say: make it easy for buyers to picture themselves living there; not redoing everything the moment they move in. 2. Permanent Installations Like Sports Courts or Putting Greens Why it can decrease value: This one surprises people. I've been in homes where the entire backyard is a putting green or a tennis court, and unless the buyer is really into that sport, it just reads as a space that's no longer functional. These installations are often expensive to remove and take up valuable square footage that could otherwise be used for entertaining, relaxing, or even a pool. What to do instead: Design the backyard to be flexible. Think open green space, or a patio that can work for multiple uses—family time, dinner parties, or even space to add features later. If you're adding elements like a fire pit, go modular when you can. The key is to create options, not limitations. Bio Jamie Chang is a luxury real estate advisor based in Naples, Florida, with Premier Sotheby's International Realty. Known for her digital-first approach and deep local expertise, Jamie specializes in high-end properties and new developments along Florida's Gulf Coast.
Backyard Features That Can Actually Hurt Your Home's Value 1. Complicated Water Features Features like ponds or large fountains might seem like a great idea at first, but they don't appeal to everyone. Many buyers think about the upkeep, the potential for bugs, and whether it's a safety issue for kids or pets. It's the kind of thing that can feel more like a project than a perk. Something simple, like a birdbath or a small, easy-care fountain, usually works better. It adds a nice touch without making buyers worry about maintenance. 2. Personalized Hardscaping Some outdoor spaces are customized with bold patio colors, stamped concrete, or one-of-a-kind sculptures. Even if it fits the current owner's style, buyers may see it as something they'll need to remove or change. That can make the space feel less inviting. Natural stone, neutral pavers, and clean landscaping are much easier for buyers to picture themselves enjoying. 3. Too Much Artificial Turf or Concrete A yard that's covered mostly in concrete or synthetic grass can feel hot, harsh, or lifeless. Some buyers may also wonder if there are underlying drainage issues or see it as an environmental concern. Using native plants and low-maintenance landscaping brings the yard to life, looks great in photos, and is often easier to care for long term. Kathy Greenwell is a Central Ohio Realtor(r) and the founder of The Greenwell Group. With over 30 years of experience and 2,400+ homes sold, she specializes in helping homeowners boost value before they list. Kathy brings deep insight into what truly impacts resale in today's market.
1. DIY or Unpermitted Structures Backyard sheds, patios, or gazebos built without proper permits—or not up to code—can scare off potential buyers. These additions often trigger red flags during inspections and appraisals, creating uncertainty, delays, or added costs that buyers may not be willing to take on. Instead: If you're adding any structure, consult a licensed contractor and obtain the necessary permits. Professionally built, code-compliant features add true value and give buyers peace of mind. 2. Excessive Concrete or Paved Surfaces Yards dominated by large concrete slabs, outdated patios, or overly paved areas can feel harsh and unwelcoming. These surfaces can also pose drainage issues and increase heat retention, especially in warmer climates—factors that reduce curb appeal and livability. Instead: Introduce softness and dimension by breaking up the hardscape. Use planter beds, permeable pavers, or natural materials like gravel, stone, and wood to create a more inviting and functional space. 3. Overgrown Trees or Invasive Plants While mature landscaping is a plus, trees with invasive roots or uncontrolled overgrowth can damage plumbing, block light, and obscure views. They may also raise maintenance concerns or signal neglect to discerning buyers. Instead: Choose well-maintained, non-invasive trees and plantings that complement the home and yard. Native species are a great option—they're lower maintenance, eco-friendly, and thrive in the local climate. Bio: Michelle Esquivel is a seasoned California Realtor and Broker Associate who brings thoughtful strategy and high-level service to every transaction. Her expertise spans from first-time buyers to luxury clients seeking maximum value and lifestyle fit. Learn more at www.michellehomesellingteam.com
“Quintessential New Yorker®” and a Licensed Real Estate Agent at Brown Harris Stevens
Answered 9 months ago
Garden Features That Could Decrease the Value of Your Home "Your garden is like the first chapter of a book—if it's unappealing, potential buyers may never get to the good stuff inside." Overly Elaborate Water Features Water features like large fountains or ponds can be a quick turn-off for many buyers and might not align with their lifestyles. And if they are not maintained properly, they can even attract mosquitoes, become overgrown, or just look like a constant liability. What you can do instead is to replace these fountains with low-maintenance alternatives like gardens or stylish, minimalist patios. Adding a small birth bath or a water-efficient irrigation system can provide a peaceful vibe without the fuss. Overgrown or Poorly Maintained Lawns A lawn that resembles a jungle is definitely a red flag. Unkempt laws create a feeling of neglect and can be a big deterrent. It also indicates to a potential buyer that the property may have other maintenance issues as well. A low-cost fix for this problem is to either re-sod the lawn or replace the pants with drought-resistant ones. Adding neat borders and a few colorful, strategically placed flowers can increase the curb appeal without demanding constant attention. Excessive, Outdated Landscaping Features You might also want to reconsider a garden that is packed with outdated, heavy landscaping features like overgrown hedges, large statuary, or too many trees. This can make any garden feel cramped and overly complicated. Instead, go for a more modern and fresh look, think clean lines, open spaces, & low-maintenance plants. Remove bulky features and replace them with native plants or modern garden sculptures that are both stylish and low-maintenance. Less can often be more when we talk about gardens. Having a well-kept, simple garden with some thoughtful touches can not only avoid decreasing your home's value, but even be a feature that boosts it. A garden that is inviting, easy to maintain, & stylish will make your home more appealing to a larger base of potential buyers.
For me, one of the most overlooked issues in backyards is over-customization. When homeowners install highly personalized features like themed play structures, koi ponds, or elaborate fire pits that dominate the yard, it can turn off potential buyers. Not everyone wants to maintain a pond or remove a pirate ship jungle gym. These features can actually make the space feel smaller and less versatile. Instead, I always suggest keeping the backyard as open and flexible as possible. A simple, well-designed patio with neutral hardscaping, low-maintenance plants, and defined areas for entertaining or relaxing will appeal to a broader group of buyers - and that's key when it comes to preserving or boosting resale value. In my opinion, another big red flag is artificial turf installed wall-to-wall. While it might seem low-maintenance, many buyers see it as a turnoff due to heat retention, environmental concerns, and a less "natural" aesthetic. It also tends to age poorly, especially in harsh climates. A better alternative? Opt for drought-tolerant landscaping with native plants, decorative gravel paths, and a patch of real grass (or clover) if you want a green area. That way, you keep the look fresh and eco-conscious while reducing the upkeep - which today's buyers really value. Finally, I'd say an unpermitted or poorly constructed deck or shed can do more harm than good. Buyers are getting more savvy about municipal codes, and anything that looks questionable often raises red flags during inspection. It also gives a "DIY gone wrong" vibe, which can hurt the overall impression. What I always recommend instead is investing in properly permitted outdoor features like a pergola, a composite deck done professionally, or even a small greenhouse that's well-integrated into the landscape. These upgrades add both functional and aesthetic value when done right. Bio: Adam Chahl is a real estate expert and the founder of Vancouver Home Search and the PLACE Real Estate Team - Oakwyn Realty. Known for his straightforward advice and deep market knowledge, Adam helps homeowners make strategic decisions that boost both lifestyle and property value.
Which backyard features can decrease the value of a home, and why? What can homeowners do instead? Some clumping and running bamboo types spread underneath quickly, causing root intrusion underneath foundations, patios, even pool decks — damage that could run tens of thousands to fix. As part of one of those renovations, I inherited a house in which a previous owner had planted running bamboo as a "fast-growing privacy screen." Within three years, the roots had cracked the coping stones on the pool and worked their way under a slab garage. Overly Large, High-Maintenance Water Features Gigantic ponds, waterfalls or brook systems can be costly ( pumps, filters, algae etc----- and a liability for families with small children or pets. Buyers frequently consider the cost of utilities and the cost of maintaining a property when stating their offers. One homeowner had a multileveled waterfall that used a 24-hour recirculating pump. Over time, the electrical bills rose and maintenance lapsed along with it, ushering in a mosquito population, two warning signs for prospective buyers. Think of a small table-top scene water feature or a portable solar bubbler. These can stand on a patio or terrace — or even in a vessel of its own design, since it doesn't require any complicated plumbing — and give you the soothing sound of water. Low-profile pondless waterfalls, in which water circulates in an underground reservoir, also reduce problems with standing water. Low Quality Synthetic Turf Or Plastic Play Areas Consider a high-quality pet- and child-friendly turf product with under-padding designed to provide comfort, or even mix in real grass varieties that have been bred for drought tolerance. For play areas, opt for modular wood-grain composite decks or safe, natural rubber mulch zones — less-intrusive materials that blend better with existing landscaping. Could you provide a short bio for the feature without risking copyright infringement? Jacob Naig is a licensed real estate agent and investor based in Des Moines, Iowa, with over a decade of experience sourcing and renovating residential properties. He specializes in harmonizing smart design, budget management, and efficient project delivery to maximize both curb appeal and long-term asset value.
What ornate water features can devalue a home? Fancy koi ponds and tiered waterfalls can seem opulent, but their intricate plumbing, perpetually in flux algae regulation, and sometimes high stakes, hidden leak potential make them a maintenance nightmare. For a less-than-typical but all-over smart approach, consider a self-contained urn or boulder fountain kit that can be placed on a deck, patio, or near an existing garden bed, said Metzgar, who notes that the serene sound of water will be there without permanent installations or permit headaches to make use of and that can be moved or retired if tastes change. Which plantings that require a lot of maintenance have little value? Exotic specimens, Japanese maples in unshaded yards, say, or tropical palms in a hardiness zone foreign to them, require soil amendments that are not standard fare in local gardens, irrigation regimens foreign to other properties on the block, and seasonal protection that buyers see as future spending. Instead, in addition to accepting drought-tolerant native species, like ornamental grasses, lavender or manzanita, you can turn to them to establish a palette that reflects the climate, lowers maintenance and appeals to eco-conscious buyers. What permanent hardscapes could negatively affect future value? Jumbo poured-in-place concrete patios or built-in outdoor kitchens, meanwhile, lock homeowners into permanent layouts, kill natural drainage, and can age their properties as trends shift. More malleable, non-standard workarounds include permeable paver systems with modular grill carts or movable kitchen islands: these honor hydrology, allow owners to reconfigure space over the course of time, and appeal to buyers who value both sustainability and adaptability.
Which over-engineered water features can backfire on home value? Ornate koi ponds or multi-tiered waterfalls often require intricate filtration, ongoing algae management, and expensive permits, turning a luxury into a long-term liability. Buyers are concerned about the potential of safety hazards, mosquito breeding,g and leashold bills, and inspectors often red-flag aging pumps or hidden leaks that can rot foundations. High-maintenance plantings that undermine value? If you want to grow exotic specimens, Japanese maples, tropical palms, or hybrid turf, for instance, supporting these plants with high-priced soil amendments, extra irrigation, and knowledgeable pruning will not only cost more but also increase the potential for die-off in marginal climates. Sellers liken these luxury amenities to a future bill, and unmanned rentals will often suffer specimen loss with the accompanying drying if the irrigation does not work as planned. In one of his portfolios, a grove of specimen palms that were planted in direct sun but without shade died in a single summer, leaving bare stumps; the replacement of native water-saver ornamentals and a simple drip-irrigation grid saved 60 percent of the watering bill and appealed to more buyers. What sort of permanent hardscape installations can damage value? Overscale poured-in-place concrete patios, built-in outdoor kitchens, homeowner walkways: These desolating elements force landowners toward a particular layout, prevent drainage, and date a property, since each trend is over when it's over. Taylor Jones is the Head of Acquisitions at STR Search, where his analytical methods have led investors to acquire 200+ cash-flowing short-term rentals across the United States. As a former professional athlete, he's both disciplined and analytical in his approach, and he shares his hard-won insights on the "STR Investing" podcast.
3 Backyard Features That Can Decrease Your Home's Value (And What to Do Instead) Not every backyard upgrade is a value-booster. Some features may actually turn potential buyers away or require costly fixes down the road. Here are a few common missteps—and what you can do instead to protect or even increase your home's value: 1. Overly Customized or Permanent Built-Ins Why it decreases value: Think concrete tiki bars, oversized pizza ovens, or elaborate play structures. While fun for the current owner, these highly specific additions may not appeal to the average buyer and can be costly to remove. What to do instead: Opt for flexible, movable features like a freestanding fire pit, stylish modular outdoor furniture, or a simple pergola with string lights. These create ambiance and usability without the commitment. 2. Poorly Maintained Lawns and Outdated Landscaping Why it decreases value: A patchy lawn, overgrown shrubs, or dead plants give the impression of neglect. Landscaping is the first thing buyers see—it sets the tone before they even step inside. What to do instead: Focus on curb appeal. Use low-maintenance, regionally appropriate plants, define clean edges around planting beds, and keep lawns well-trimmed and healthy. Fresh mulch and seasonal flowers can also go a long way. 3. Excessive Hardscape or Artificial Turf Why it decreases value: Too much paving or synthetic grass can make a yard feel sterile and overheated—especially in hot climates. Buyers may worry about poor drainage or lack of play/garden space. What to do instead: Balance hardscape with softscape. Choose permeable pavers or stepping stones interspersed with native groundcovers. Incorporate planting pockets, shade trees, or raised garden beds to bring life and usability to the yard. Author Bio: Walter Bone, RLA, ASLA is a licensed landscape architect based in Florida with global experience in residential, resort, and public space design. He's passionate about sustainable landscaping that enhances property value and livability, blending aesthetics with smart environmental choices.
Having transformed hundreds of Springfield, Ohio yards since 2007, I've seen how certain backyard features can kill property values faster than you'd expect. **Improperly installed hardscaping** destroys home values because buyers recognize expensive repair work ahead. I've walked countless properties where DIY retaining walls are cracking, pavers are sinking, and drainage is creating foundation issues. Poor installation shows within 2-3 years, and buyers either walk away or demand massive price reductions knowing they're facing $15,000+ in reconstruction costs. Instead, invest in professional installation with proper drainage and quality materials - we've seen well-built patios and walkways increase property values by 10-15%. **Overly complex water features** become liability nightmares that scare buyers away. Elaborate koi ponds and multi-level fountains look impressive initially, but they require constant maintenance, expensive equipment, and create mosquito breeding grounds when neglected. I've removed dozens of these features after homeowners realized the weekly upkeep costs. Simple, self-contained water features or professionally designed low-maintenance ponds work better - they add ambiance without the headache. **Poorly planned plant placement** creates expensive problems buyers won't touch. Trees planted too close to foundations, aggressive species that damage hardscaping, and plants blocking windows or walkways signal poor planning. I've seen beautiful mature trees actually decrease property values because they're obviously going to damage structures. Strategic native plant placement that improves rather than threatens your home's structure is the winning approach. I'm BJ Hamilton, owner of Nature's Own Landscapes in Springfield, Ohio, with 17 years of landscaping experience. I've designed and installed outdoor spaces for hundreds of properties, giving me deep insight into what features add value versus what drives buyers away.
Vice President of Operations & Integrator at Task Master Inc.
Answered 9 months ago
After 25+ years designing over 5,000 outdoor spaces in Minnesota, I've seen features that consistently hurt resale values during my client consultations. **Overly personalized hardscape installations** kill broad appeal fast. I've had clients with custom sports team logos embedded in their patios struggle to sell, with one Vikings-themed installation requiring complete replacement before closing. Instead, choose timeless materials like natural stone or neutral pavers that complement your home's architecture rather than personal interests. **Pools and water features in northern climates** are massive liabilities here in Minnesota. Three-season usability means 9 months of maintenance costs with zero enjoyment, plus safety concerns that scare families away. I now recommend fire features or heated outdoor living spaces that extend usability year-round and create cozy gathering spots buyers actually want. **Poorly planned drainage and grading** destroys property values faster than any aesthetic choice. I've seen beautiful landscapes become $15,000+ problems when water pools against foundations or creates muddy messes. Proper drainage systems with French drains and strategic grading should be your first investment before any decorative elements. I'm Christopher Deanovic, Operations Leader at Task Masters, a premier landscape and home renovation company in Minnesota. Over 25 years, I've helped transform 5,000+ outdoor spaces while building our company from a small operation into a trusted industry leader throughout the Twin Cities region.
1. Simplifying Garden Designs I recommend staying clear of overly delicate garden designs for most homeowners. While the allure of topiaries, rare plants, or themes like a tropical oasis sounds tempting, they can be high-maintenance and might not be right for most people's lifestyle. Exotic plants may not thrive in the local climate, leading to dead patches and frustration. A complex landscape might also clash with a buyer's lifestyle or aesthetic. I suggest choosing a simple garden design that's easy to keep up with. Planting local perennials like coneflowers, lavender, or black-eyed Susans adds durability and beauty. It's also smart to use shrubs or evergreen hedges to define spaces and keep things looking good all year round. When you match the garden colors to your house's exterior, it pulls everything together and makes your outdoor space even more welcoming. This simpler method is easier to manage and also creates a timeless appeal that will catch the eyes of potential buyers. 2. Choosing the Right Water Features Large ponds or elaborate fountains in the backyard usually raise concerns. They need constant upkeep, can attract mosquitoes, and even become safety hazards if you have small kids or pets roaming around. These features might make potential homebuyers think twice because of the ongoing maintenance and risk factors. A better idea is to use a small birdbath or a wall-mounted water feature. These options still bring the relaxing effect and beauty of water but on a much more manageable scale. Surround them with plants like salvia or yarrow to draw in pollinators, boosting your garden's life and making sure it's both high-quality and simple to maintain. This way, you keep the allure without the fuss, which makes your backyard a beloved part of your home.
**Neglected water features** like broken fountains or stagnant ponds become property value killers fast. In our 25+ years servicing Idaho properties, we've seen homeowners spend $15,000+ on elaborate water features that turn into mosquito breeding grounds and liability nightmares within two seasons. The maintenance costs alone—pumps, filtration, algae control—often exceed what owners budget for. **Overgrown foundation plantings** are silent property destroyers that most homeowners ignore until it's too late. We regularly service properties where mature shrubs have grown into siding, damaged foundations, or blocked windows completely. Insurance companies flag these as risk factors, and buyers see them as expensive removal projects rather than landscaping assets. **High-maintenance exotic landscaping** screams "money pit" to potential buyers, especially in our semi-arid climate. Properties with tropical plants requiring constant irrigation and special care sit on the market longer because buyers calculate the ongoing costs. We've replaced countless failed exotic installations with native Idaho plants that actually increase property values through water savings and year-round appeal. Instead, focus on drought-resistant native landscaping, properly scaled foundation plantings, and simple water-wise irrigation systems. These additions reduce maintenance costs while increasing curb appeal—exactly what buyers want in today's market. I'm Aaron Joelson, co-owner and Director of Operations at Organic Solutions Inc., a family-run landscaping company serving Idaho for over 25 years. We manage thousands of residential and commercial properties, giving me direct insight into which landscape features help or hurt property values.
Suggestions and Advice: 1. Overly Personalised Landscaping Features like elaborate garden sculptures, bright-colored fences, or themed gardens (think tropical or Zen in a region where it doesn't suit) can actually turn buyers away. They may not share your taste and will see it as something they'll need to change. Do this instead: Stick to classic, low-maintenance designs with native plants and neutral hardscaping. A simple, tidy garden with a few focal points like a stone path or raised garden beds is far more appealing and adds value. 2. Neglected or Patchy Lawns A brown, uneven, or weed infested lawn signals poor maintenance and can make the entire property look run down. Buyers will often assume the rest of the home hasn't been cared for either. Do this instead: Invest in regular lawn care or consider replacing struggling turf with drought tolerant native grasses or a smart looking ground cover like creeping thyme. It's better for water usage and much easier to maintain. 3. Poorly Installed or Outdated Decking Old timber decking that's warped or covered in peeling paint gives off a neglected vibe and can raise safety concerns. Even worse, DIY jobs that aren't up to code may need to be pulled down entirely. Do this instead: Use durable, long-lasting materials like composite decking or sealed hardwood. Make sure the build is up to local standards. A clean, well-built deck or patio creates an inviting outdoor living area that's a real asset. Bio: Andrew Osborne is the founder of Ozzie Mowing and Gardening and a certified horticulturist with over 15 years of hands on experience in landscaping, lawn care, and garden design. Known for his award-winning customer service, Andrew has completed more than 700 projects across residential and commercial properties, helping clients turn struggling outdoor spaces into thriving gardens. In one recent job, a client had installed a bright red retaining wall, artificial turf, and oversized bamboo plants that clashed with the style of the home and were scaring off buyers. Drawing on my background in both design and horticulture, I reworked the space with native hedging, a fresh natural lawn, and sandstone edging that tied in with the home's tones. Not only did the home sell within a week of going to market, but the agent told me the garden became the key selling point.
Absolutely—over the years, I’ve seen a few backyard choices that can actually hurt a home's value. One is installing oversized or poorly built decks and patios; if they eat up too much lawn or look out of place, buyers see big repair bills and less usable yard. Instead, keep outdoor spaces proportional and use quality materials that complement the house. Another is permanent playground equipment—these are great for families, but can turn off buyers without kids and can be hard (and costly) to remove. I suggest portable play sets or landscaping that can be easily converted. And finally, elaborate water features like koi ponds often seem like a maintenance headache, especially here in the Pacific Northwest, where they attract debris and can leak. If you want that peaceful vibe, opt for simple, low-maintenance fountains or birdbaths that add charm without the upkeep. Bio: Jeremy Schooler is the founder and president of Kitsap Home Pro. With more than 25 years in construction and real estate, Jeremy specializes in practical solutions that help homeowners maximize value and create inviting, low-hassle spaces.
Through thousands of home purchases across Utah, I've identified specific backyard features that consistently hurt property values when we evaluate homes for cash offers. **Overly personalized outdoor structures** like custom-built treehouses or elaborate playsets immediately reduce our offers by 8-12%. Most buyers see these as removal costs rather than benefits, especially when they don't have kids or the structures show wear. We've purchased homes where sellers spent $15,000 on custom playground equipment that actually hurt their resale value. A simple deck or patio with quality outdoor furniture appeals to far more buyers and adds genuine value. **Poorly executed DIY hardscaping** kills property values faster than almost anything else. Crooked retaining walls, uneven pavers, or mismatched stone work screams "maintenance headache" to buyers. I've seen beautiful homes get lowball offers because the backyard looked like a weekend warrior project gone wrong. Professional installation of basic features like a simple fire pit area or clean-lined pathway consistently performs better in our market evaluations. **High-maintenance specialty gardens** requiring constant care hurt values in our fast-moving Utah market. Rose gardens, vegetable plots, or intricate flower beds demand expertise most buyers don't have. These features often look neglected by the time we see properties, creating negative first impressions. Low-maintenance xeriscaping with native Utah plants not only survives our climate but actually increases our cash offers since buyers see reduced water costs and upkeep. Joe Darger is CEO of Joe Homebuyer of Utah, having purchased thousands of properties across the state and evaluated countless backyard features for their impact on home values. His company has earned hundreds of 5-star reviews by helping homeowners steer quick sales while maximizing their property's worth.
After building thousands of custom sheds and outdoor structures across four states since 1997, I've seen how the wrong backyard features can torpedo home values. I've worked with homeowners who've made costly mistakes and helped them fix these issues. **Oversized or poorly-placed sheds** are value killers I see constantly. A massive 16x24 shed crammed into a small backyard overwhelms the space and screams "storage hoarder" to buyers. I've seen appraisers dock $5,000-8,000 for sheds that dominate yards. Instead, choose appropriately-sized structures (8x12 or 10x14 for most properties) and use strategic placement near property lines or existing fences. We've helped clients increase their home values by $15,000+ with well-designed, properly-sized custom sheds. **Mismatched materials and colors** are another major mistake. That bright blue vinyl shed clashing with your home's natural stone? It's an eyesore that buyers remember. I always recommend materials that complement your home's architecture - if you have a brick house, choose wood or neutral colors. We've seen properties gain significant curb appeal just by switching from garish colors to earth tones that blend with landscaping. **Poor drainage around structures** creates expensive problems buyers avoid. I've fixed countless sheds sitting in perpetual mud puddles because owners skipped proper site prep. Always ensure proper grading, use gravel bases, and integrate landscaping that naturally channels water away from structures. I'm Dan Wright, co-founder and CEO of Wright's Shed Co., building custom outdoor structures since 1997. We've completed thousands of projects across Utah, Idaho, Nebraska, and Iowa, helping homeowners maximize their property values through quality craftsmanship and strategic design.
Having brokered over a billion dollars in real estate across the Carolinas and now analyzing property data nationwide through ez Home Search, I've identified specific backyard features that consistently hurt home values in ways most agents miss. **Permanent above-ground pools** are absolute value killers that I see dragging down properties by 10-15% in our platform data. Unlike in-ground pools which can add value in markets like Scottsdale (where our data shows 1,322 homes with pools), above-ground pools scream "temporary" and "cheap" to buyers. They also limit yard usage and create maintenance headaches. Replace with a quality deck or patio space that offers flexibility - buyers can always add their own pool later but removing an eyesore above-ground setup is immediate negative equity. **Oversized storage sheds and outbuildings** that dominate small yards kill curb appeal and make properties feel cramped. Through my contracting background, I've seen countless appraisals where these structures were flagged as detractors rather than assets. Our listing data consistently shows properties with cluttered outdoor storage perform worse than clean, open spaces. Build smart storage solutions into garages or basements instead - buyers want outdoor living space, not industrial-looking utility areas. **Concrete-heavy hardscaping without greenery** creates dead zones that buyers instinctively avoid. While our data shows patios add value in markets like Los Angeles (143 properties feature them), all-concrete backyards feel institutional and uninviting. Balance is key - incorporate planting beds, permeable materials, and defined green spaces that frame hardscaped areas rather than dominating them. Preston Guyton has spent 20+ years in real estate, building and exiting two companies that achieved over $1 billion in combined sales. As founder of ez Home Search, he analyzes property data across 80+ million U.S. homes while holding active licenses as a broker, general contractor, and MLO across multiple states.
**Excessive concrete or stone patios** that cover 70%+ of backyard space kill home values in Colorado's market. I've assessed dozens of properties where massive concrete slabs made outdoor spaces feel like parking lots rather than living areas, and these homes consistently appraise lower because buyers want yards, not courtyards. **Swimming pools in Denver's climate** actually decrease property values by $15,000-25,000 in our market. Through my roofing inspections across 100+ properties, I've seen countless pools that sit unused 8-9 months per year, representing pure liability and maintenance costs that Colorado buyers actively avoid. **Elaborate gazebos or permanent shade structures** positioned poorly often block natural light into homes and create maintenance headaches. I've worked with several HOAs where these structures became neighborhood eyesores within 3-5 years, requiring expensive repairs or removal that frustrated homeowners. Instead, create flexible outdoor spaces with removable shade solutions, native Colorado landscaping that requires minimal water, and multi-level decking that maximizes usable space without overwhelming the yard. These choices work with our climate and let buyers envision their own outdoor lifestyle. I'm Benny Izquierdo, owner of BRG Builds' roofing division, with over 100 completed exterior projects across Denver's metro area. My background in education and property assessment gives me unique insight into what features actually impact home values versus what homeowners think will help.
Absolutely—after buying and selling homes for years, I see a few backyard mistakes that can turn off buyers fast. First, permanent above-ground pools often decrease value because many folks see them as safety hazards or high-maintenance eyesores. Instead, opt for a removable pool or focus on an inviting patio space for outdoor gatherings. Second, heavy concrete patios can feel cold and leave no room for greenery or play—choosing a balanced mix of pavers and planting beds creates a more family-friendly, flexible space. Lastly, wild overgrown gardens or specialty plantings (like a backyard full of bamboo) may look cool to some, but buyers usually prefer neat lawns and easy-care shrubs. Simplicity is always more appealing and keeps your home's value strong. Bio: Levi Larson is the President & CEO of Hapa Homebuyers, a leading home-buying company serving Alabama and Florida. With over 15 years in people management and 6 years as a real estate investor, Levi is passionate about helping homeowners find practical, value-boosting solutions during any real estate transition.