Maximize Your Home’s Value with Smart Patio Upgrades: Expert Tips for a High ROI

Control patio costs for a higher return

Generally, kitchen and bathroom remodels at the lower to mid-range price points tend to offer a higher return on investment (ROI) compared to more luxurious renovations. The same principle applies to patios — less ambitious, budget-friendly projects are more likely to recoup their costs. By spending less initially, it becomes easier to recover that investment when selling, as potential buyers often appreciate functional and affordable updates over extravagant ones.

Investing in a basic patio space rather than all the luxury upgrades is the way to go if ROI is your top priority. Attract buyers with a feature that’s high on their wish list, then let them outfit the space to their liking once they’re the owners.

Plus, even if a fancy patio could potentially increase your home’s asking price, the value that buyers assign to outdoor living space might not align with an appraiser’s opinion, Nelson says.

If construction isn’t in your timeline, that’s okay, too. Nelson says buyers often just like to see that there would be enough space in the yard to add a patio at some point down the line. Her reasoning is that patios are a less invasive project than something like a kitchen makeover, since the projects happen outdoors. You can still comfortably live in the house while your patio is under construction, so buyers are more willing to take it on after the sale.

Consider hiring a professional

Patio installation is a complex project that requires expertise — it’s not something most DIYers should attempt. A poorly executed patio can lead to significant issues like uneven stones or mismatched materials that disrupt the overall look and functionality.

Nelson has witnessed a range of patio installation mistakes, from “patios built on top of other patios” to mismatched slabs and pavers. She emphasizes that if the foundation isn’t done correctly, it can cause the pavers to shift and become uneven over time.

Unless you’re handy with a masonry saw, landscaping nails, and a plate compactor, leave this project to the pros. Hiring labor for a 100-square-foot patio should cost you about $500 to $1,500.

Match patio size and style to your home

When you set out to add a patio to your outdoor living space, take proportions into consideration. Nelson recommends applying the rule of thirds to make sure your patio plans don’t get too ambitious.

Divide your space accordingly:

• 1/3 landscaping or buffer
• 1/3 grassy area for the kids and dogs to run and play
• 1/3 patio

A well-designed patio should feel like a seamless extension of your home, not a separate addition. If the patio appears tacked on or out of place, it can diminish the overall value, especially if it’s a high-end design attached to an otherwise ordinary house.

In most cases, elaborate patios are more likely to boost a home’s value when they match the home’s style and neighborhood expectations, rather than standing out as an extravagant feature on an otherwise modest property. The goal is to create a cohesive look that enhances the home’s charm, not detracts from it.

Choose materials that complement your home — and weather

When selecting the materials for your patio, you want to consider the following factors:

• Cost
• Durability
• Style
• Installation difficulty

Keep in mind that materials such as brick or poured concrete can be vulnerable to cracking and erosion in harsh weather climates.

Pavers, or manufactured stones, on the other hand, can last up to 100 years because if one breaks, you can replace the individual paver.

Travertine pavers are an eco-friendly and highly durable option that come in a wide variety of styles. You can get Tuscany Scabas or Mediterranean Walnut Patterned Tumbled Travertine at about $7 per square foot at Home Depot.

Concrete pavers are another affordable option offered in an array of tones, shapes, and sizes.

Consider your home’s era and design when choosing patio materials to complement its style. For a Colonial-style home, brick pavers can evoke timeless charm, while concrete pavers work well for a sleek, modern look. A skilled local contractor can offer expert advice on the best options for your area.

Make your existing patio look like new

Already have a patio space to work with? Don’t underestimate the value of sweat equity and a little elbow grease to get it in top shape for showings. The work you put in here can mean the difference between your patio being a value add or an eyesore.

Power wash your patio

Start by giving the surface a thorough power wash to remove dirt, grime, and debris. Since you’re dealing with durable stones or concrete, there’s little risk of causing damage. For tougher stains and leftover sealant, you’ll need a zero-degree nozzle, which delivers a concentrated, high-pressure stream ideal for hard-to-clean areas.

If purchasing a power washer for one use doesn’t make sense, consider renting one from a local home improvement store. Alternatively, if you’re unsure about using the equipment or simply lack the time, hiring a professional can save you the hassle and ensure the job is done right.

Fix any cracks in your patio

Cracks in your patio might seem minor at first, but they can cause bigger problems down the road. In colder climates, water that seeps into the cracks freezes during winter, causing them to widen. Come warmer months, grass and other plants can start to make their way through, turning your patio into an unexpected garden.

If you used pavers, you can simply replace the cracked paver. For concrete patios, you can buy a crack filler for a hassle-free solution.

Re-seal your concrete or pavers

Once your patio is 100% dry from the power wash, it needs to be resealed. Sealant blocks the pores in concrete and keeps it from absorbing water and salts. About every three years, your patio is due for a new coat of sealant to protect it from discoloration, cracks, and crumbling.

You can purchase concrete sealant at any home improvement store, then follow this step-by-step for how to apply it to your patio.

Clean all your outdoor furniture

Furniture covered with mildew, cobwebs, stains, and dirt will only serve to deter buyers. Here’s how to clean your outdoor furniture:

To clean outdoor furniture effectively:

• Wood and wicker: Hose down and use a mild, oil-based soap with warm water to wipe away grime. For wicker, avoid power washing and scrub gently with a soft brush.
• Metal (iron, aluminum): Use metal polish or a white vinegar and water solution to remove dirt and prevent rust.
• Glass: Use a vinegar-based cleaner or a commercial glass cleaner for a streak-free shine.
• Plastic: Mix 3 tablespoons of dishwasher detergent with 1 gallon of warm water to clean. For stubborn stains, try a paste of baking soda and water.

Regular cleaning and protective measures can extend the life of your furniture, and using eco-friendly products ensures a non-toxic approach.

Use vignette staging to help buyers visualize the space

Patios are a prime space for recreation and relaxation, making them a top priority for homebuyers. However, for buyers to truly connect with the potential of the space, they need to visualize how it could fit into their daily routines.

Having ample space is great, but if buyers can’t picture how to arrange the furniture or use the area, it doesn’t have the same impact, Nelson says. “Outdoor staging takes the patio to the next level.”

The key to successful staging is creating vignettes — small, thoughtfully arranged scenes that evoke a specific mood or purpose.

On a patio, the options are endless. You might stage a cozy reading nook with cushioned seating and side tables, inviting buyers to imagine themselves with a book in hand. Or, you could set the stage for outdoor entertaining with a classic patio dining set, accented with a vase of fresh flowers and simple, elegant place settings.

Maximize your patio investment’s value

A patio may not see as much foot traffic as the kitchen or family room, but it can be the feature that transforms a house into a home. An inviting outdoor space offers a sense of relaxation and connection, making it an essential part of any living environment.

As with any major home renovation, adding a patio doesn’t guarantee you’ll recoup every dollar spent at resale. However, creating a functional outdoor living space can significantly increase your home’s value, especially if you made thoughtful construction choices and maintained the space well throughout your ownership.

For the best results in staging, marketing, and selling your home — patio included — working with a professional real estate agent is key. HomeLight’s Agent Match Tool connects you with three top agents in your area, helping you take the first step on your home-selling journey.

Header Image Source: (AndyG / Pixabay)