Small backyard, HUGE backyard, patio, pool; no matter what type of backyard you have, you have the potential to influence buyers. Although a deserted backyard won’t be a deal breaker for most buyers, a beautifully renovated backyard will allow buyers to better imagine themselves in the space – which is what you want right?
What’s the First Impression?
The first step to impressing buyers is to perfect your entry way. If you have a front yard, clear a path to the front door and make sure the garden is tidy. Also consider sprucing up the fences, door frame and door with a lick of paint. A new, neat mailbox is also an inexpensive way to make a positive impression on potential buyers if yours is looking a bit worse for wear. If you are an apartment owner and there is anything you want specifically attended to, contact your strata manager to discuss what you would like prioritised by the strata-appointed gardener.
Shady Sanctuary
Having an outdoor area that can be used all year round is a huge bonus to buyers. Protection from the rain and shelter from the sun via a balcony, deck, or covered area is always a plus.
The Rise of the Entertainer
A growing trend over the past few years has been the buyer’s preference for indoor-outdoor kitchens and dining areas. This indoor to outdoor flow is appealing to buyers who see themselves entertaining outdoors with access and amenities already there for them. This trend is also attractive to buyers with families – a backyard is cheap entertainment for children, and outdoor living areas allow for easy supervision.
Bring in Some Variety
A little known fact is that mature gardens are worth a lot of money. If you are looking to renovate your property to sell, consider doing your garden first so that the plants have time to establish before sale time. Plants are beautiful assets for softening fences and decks in your yard. Be sure to do your research on what plants will flourish best in your climate and conditions.
Upgrade Your Level
Level land is a lot more attractive to buyers and worth significantly more. If you have the opportunity to level your outdoor area it is worth considering.
Naomi Findlay is Australia's renovation royalty and works with people around the country helping them create beautiful spaces with her online courses. 
Hi Naomi – a newbie and question for you.
I’m trying to redesign my outdoor areas including the pool area. The pool has an expansive red brick fence on one side – and no redeeming features at all. Is there a stain I can paint into the bricks rather than paint?
Hi Dani, great question! There are concrete stains that you could try rather than paint – Rust-oleum sell one, I get mine from Bristol stores. Hope that helps! N x