Outdoor space can play a major part in a home’s value, and in some parts of the country each square foot is worth a lot more than others, according to R&T Fence research. Yard values vary dramatically across the country, with Alaska having the most affordable outdoor space at just $2.15 per square foot.
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For homeowners with an eye for adding value, it’s worth looking at the cost versus value of potential projects, and The Journal of Light Construction created a good guide to which outdoor projects hold the strongest resale potential. The data show how much homeowners in the 10 states with the priciest backyards stand to gain by investing in the right features.
California
- Average yard price per square feet: $80.32
The small yards and high real estate prices in California means outdoor space comes with serious value. Deck additions would perform especially well, with wood decks recouping about 95% of their cost at resale.
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Hawaii
- Average yard price per square foot: $77.13
Limited land drives up the value of every patch of outdoor space in Hawaii. Durable decks and shaded patios suit the climate and lifestyle while maintaining strong resale value, with composite decks recouping 89% at resale and backyard patios recouping 46%.
New York
- Average yard price per square foot: $53.74
Space can be limited, especially near the city, so a well-designed yard or rooftop deck could be a great selling point. Adding manufactured stone veneer to outside walls offers one of the highest returns, recouping 208% of the $11,702 average cost.
Washington
- Average yard price per square foot: $52.42
Large lots and a mild climate make covered patios, decks and fencing popular upgrades here. These additions boost livability year-round and tend to hold their value in the state’s fast-moving property market.
Massachusetts
- Average yard price per square foot: $48.53
Fiber-cement siding delivers an impressive 114% cost recoup, while updated patios strengthen both appearance and value in dense, high-priced neighborhoods.
Maryland
- Average yard price per square foot: $48.33
Maryland has the smallest average yard size on the list at 7,599 square feet, as well as the lowest percentage of property dedicated to gardens, just 70.96%. With limited space, using fiberglass to remodel an entrance can offer solid returns (85% cost recoup) without large-scale renovations.
Oregon
- Average yard price per square foot: $42.34
Composite decks and stone veneer are among the best-value upgrades, blending well with the state’s natural, outdoor-focused lifestyle.
New Jersey
- Average yard price per square foot: $42.01
Fiber-cement siding delivers one of the most reliable returns at resale, at 114% cost recouped, while simple landscaping improvements help homes stand out in a competitive market.
Colorado
- Average yard price per square foot: $38.77
Colorado’s outdoor spaces average 14,812 square feet, the largest in this list, so decks and patios are top earners, with wood decks nearly paying for themselves. These projects suit both the scenery and buyers’ love of outdoor living.
Florida
- Average yard price per square foot $38.70
Patios, screened outdoor areas and composite decks would be consistent favorites in a state where outdoor living lasts all year.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The Outdoor Features That Add the Most Value to Homes in These 10 States
