Homeowners are always looking for cheap ways to improve the look and functionality of their home that also increases their home value. For your home’s exterior, there is little that can be done outside of painting and landscaping. Such upgrades can run you a few thousand dollars depending on the size of the home and the extravagance you’re trying to achieve.
However, there is a way to improve the look and functionality of the exterior of your home without emptying out your pockets – the answer lies in landscape lighting. It may seem like a small upgrade, but it makes a big difference when it’s done right. If you’re worried about making an investment in outdoor lighting, Realtors strongly believe you get your money back in the resale of your home. It’s a great selling feature because it’s like having all the bells and whistles on a brand new car.
Why Outdoor Lighting is Gaining Popularity
Exterior lighting has become one of the most popular outdoor living features according to the American Society of Landscape Architects. They’re not talking about the traditional porch light or lamppost though. Lighting that illuminates plants, trees, pools, walkways, and architecture adds a major improvement to your yard that goes far beyond nighttime curb appeal. It adds home value and living space.
Yes, exterior lighting in the front of your home improves the look of your property, but the lighting in the backyard has homeowners spending more time outdoors. It’s like adding an extra room to your house without having to hire a construction company.
As the cost of living and going out rises, people are staying home for their entertainment. The addition of fire pits, patios, outdoor kitchens, and dining areas are becoming more common and all of these amenities require lighting.
With more guests coming to your home you have to make it look presentable and that means landscaping. A little goes a long way in this department and if you really want to top it off, installing landscape lighting will add the wow factor you’re trying to achieve. Once again, such upgrades go a long way when you’re trying to sell your home.
Get the Best Out of Your Outdoor Lights
Placement can make all the difference with landscape lighting. If you have any walkways or stairs that lead to other parts of the yard you’ll want to make sure those are clearly lit. These don’t have to be bright and try to avoid lights that create a glare. You simply want to guide guests through the backyard.
Professionals recommend creating a focal point. If you have a pool, shining a light down from a tree will generate a flickering effect and people will definitely notice. Highlighting main gathering areas is important as well, but make sure the lights you choose aren’t bright enough to blind guests or create shadows. Low-voltage fixtures work just fine in most cases. Remember you’re trying to enjoy the nightlife, not make everyone think it’s daylight.
Another thing to consider is how you’ll control the lighting. Motion sensors work great for security purposes, but no one wants to keep getting up and walking in front of the light to make sure it stays on all the time. Timers can control when the lights turn on and off, but it’s tough to anticipate when your party will end so this may not be the best option. You might want to consider light-sensitive lighting, which tells the lights to come on at night and turn off in the daylight hours.
This last point can’t be stressed enough. If you’re looking to make an impact with exterior lighting, hire a landscape designer. The arrangement, angles, and voltage are crucial to getting the most out of your investment and it’s best to leave it up to those who are more experienced.
