What can be more exciting than the fact that summer is finally on the way? The winter seemed extra long for many people this year, but the cold chill is in the past. It’s time for backyard parties, ice cream, and enjoying the long-awaited warm weather with friends and family.

One group of people is especially excited about the summertime. Homebuyers are out in force, dreaming of the next place to call their own.

What are some of the features that are attracting buyers’ attention these days? 

Backyard Oasis

Some people have always opted for a “staycation” instead of travelling. But with the pandemic, many Canadians still want to avoid busy airports and are choosing to stay home during their vacation. What better way to enjoy a well-deserved rest than relaxing in your own backyard oasis? Consider recruiting a friend or family member who has a keen eye for design to get started. Privacy, shade, comfort and decor are the elements you’ll need to make it work.

Depending on your budget, you can go all out and turn your backyard into an absolute fantasy, complete with a pool, hot tub and deck.

However, if you’re more budget-conscious, you can still do a thorough makeover to create your perfect getaway spot. 

• Planting perennials will allow you (or your buyer) to enjoy an array of colourful blooms each year. 
• A gazebo provides shade and privacy while giving you a home-away-from-home feel.
• A patio table and outdoor bar allow for hours of outdoor entertaining. 

Top it off with comfortable patio furniture and maybe even a hammock, and you’ll have an incredible “staycation” destination for years to come!

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Looking for even more ideas to make your home appeal to buyers? These other posts will not disappoint!

• Top Energy-Efficient Trends Buyers Look For
• Should You Renovate Your Kitchen Before You Sell?
• How to Add Curb Appeal to Your Home

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Home Office

As of now, almost all pandemic restrictions have been lifted. Some workers have returned to the office. However, many employees are now working from home permanently, even if it is just for a few days a week. Is it any wonder that buyers are starting to place a considerable value on an in-home office? Converting an unused bedroom or den space into an office can be simple.

• The key to making it work is to keep it neutral. Think light or white paint on the wall to keep it bright and clean-looking.
• The furniture should be sparse but stylish and functional. An adjustable standing desk creates a modern effect and appeals to those concerned with healthy posture. 
• An ergonomic chair and task lighting are also must-haves to add style, comfort and function. 
• We recommend keeping accent pieces to a minimum. A beautiful painting in the background and a few well-placed plants can be all it takes to make the office feel inviting and cozy.

If you want to go all out, consider adding a coffee station. Those who used to commute may miss their morning caffeine boost more than anything else. A well-placed K-cup machine means their java is an arm’s reach away!

Spa-Like Bathroom

Visits to the spa were another “no-no” over the last two years. Everything has since opened up, but why not transform your own bathroom into a spa-like experience? A few simple details make a world of difference, and you may enjoy the peace and tranquillity so much that you’ll never have to leave the house.

• Add a plant or two. If the lighting doesn’t allow it, faux plants can still add to the decor.
• Load up the shelves with plush, super-fluffy bath towels. For added luxury, invest in a towel warming rack.
• Install a new rain showerhead.
• Pour all of your bath products into glass bottles to create a uniform, spa-like atmosphere.
• Soft muted colours are best to create a calming effect.

And if you really want to grab a potential buyer’s attention, add storage wherever you can. Hooks, baskets and shelves will make your bathroom seem more spacious.

Curious to know what your home is worth? A free home evaluation will help. Book yours today.

Dedicated Laundry Room

Did you know that almost any room in your house could be a dedicated laundry area? In small homes, people have been known to install washers and dryers in closets, the bathroom and even kitchen pantries. However, if you have the space, a dedicated laundry room adds the next level of luxury to your home. Ideally, you want to set up near a waterline in a room close to the kitchen or bathroom. The further you are from a water supply, the more expensive and invasive it will be to construct your dream laundry room.

Once you’ve decided where to place your appliances, you’ll likely need a plumber and electrician to help with the installation.

• For a modern look, invest in new Energy Star appliances that will save on hydro.
• Vinyl floors can be cost-effective and will also stand up to the inevitable spills that will take place.
• Extra storage is always desirable, so why not include floor-to-ceiling cabinets?
• Accessorize your laundry area with drying racks, an indoor clothesline, a hideaway ironing board and a rolling sorter.

Walk-in Kitchen Pantry

Walk-in pantries are quickly becoming one of the most requested upgrades that buyers are looking for. Why are they so appealing? One of the ways life has changed over the last couple of years is that people are cooking at home more than ever. 

• A walk-in pantry provides the extra space to help keep spices and canned goods organized and easy to find when you want them.
• More space means fewer shopping trips and even cost savings by buying in bulk.
• It’s easier to keep your kitchen clutter-free by storing small appliances out of sight.
• Luxury upgrades can include a wine cooler and a coffee bar.

A walk-in pantry isn’t just highly functional and convenient. It is a beautiful and stylish upgrade to the kitchen, especially when finished with an attractive door.

Enclosed Front Porch

Almost nothing feels more like summer than sitting and chatting with friends on the front porch. However, as much as we love the season, it is always over too quickly. Before you know it, it’s time to say “goodbye” to porch time. 

However, it doesn’t have to be that way. A covered porch allows you to enjoy the outdoors all year long as you watch the world go by. 

• You can create a cozy, year-round reading nook.
• Imagine enjoying breakfast and coffee on the porch as the sun rises – and no insects flying into your food!
• Potted plants and flowers will last much longer.

In addition, an enclosed porch can offer more privacy and security, allowing you to spend hours outdoors uninterrupted by solicitors or noisy passersby.

Do you want more ideas on how to increase the value of your property? No one sells more homes in Bloor West Village, High Park, Swansea, The Junction, Old Mill or Baby Point than us. You can find out more about our process here.