When does a deck actually add value to a property?
There’s a mistake that many people make. They think slapping a deck onto the back of the house automatically means they’ve upped the value of the property, but things aren’t that black and white.
To be fair, that assumption makes sense because what’s not to like about an additional structure that makes being in the backyard more pleasant and comfortable? Still, you’ll easily find 2 nearly identical properties with decks, where one sits on the market for weeks, and the other is getting bids left and right.
That’s because a deck is a pile of lumber by itself. There’s no rule that says it automatically adds ANYTHING to your bottom line.
What gives a deck real value
Here’s how to know your investment will pay off.
Good design creates more value than square footage
This is why it’s so important to choose the right contractor.
You should always go with a company that specializes in deck building, such as Keystone Custom Decks Tennessee, or any other similar reputable business. By going with a company that specializes in this type of product/service, you’ll hire someone who already knows that good design trumps square footage every single time.
The deck has to connect smoothly to the living area, it has to be positioned just right so it’s not always in direct sun or in total shade, it has to make sure snoopy neighbors can’t see right into it, etc.
Buyers notice stuff like this, so if the design is awkward, don’t even think that just the fact that the deck is there will do anything for the value of the property.
Quality materials
Does this even need to be said?
Buyers who see the deck as a plus will make sure to ask plenty of questions to see what that deck is made of. They’ll be familiar with which materials will fall apart within a few years, which need constant maintenance, and which will last a long time.
Composite and PVC are your best options. They cost more upfront, but they can easily last 20 or more years without getting warped and faded.
Maintenance
If the deck is neglected and it only hurts the curb appeal, consider yourself lucky. More often than not, buyers will worry that a neglected deck means a neglected house. The same goes for a deck in great condition – it can only be a plus.
Do keep in mind that it takes a lot more than power washing to make it look nice.
That won’t fool anyone. If the deck hasn’t been maintained, it’ll show, and you won’t be able to ask for more money for the house on account of having a deck if that’s the case.
Everyday function means more than extra bells and whistles
Buyers will look around the property and try to picture themselves there.
And if they can’t see themselves using the deck often, they won’t want to pay more money for it. It’s the same with an outdoor kitchen or a fire pit; these are nice to have, but not everybody wants them.
A valuable deck has a flat spot for a dining table, enough shade to make summer afternoons comfortable, space for the kids and pets to play safely, and it’s easily accessible.
These are the things that deserve your focus, not the extra features.
Market conditions influence the return just as much as construction
Let’s say you’ve built a deck that could almost be a tank, and it has everything the average buyer would want.
Can you crank up the price and have it pass because of it? Maybe. It all depends on the market conditions.
Your property doesn’t exist in a vacuum.
There’s a lot that goes into the price, like where it is, what the prices are in the rest of the neighborhood, what the local market trends reward, etc. Property prices are on the rise across the U.S., sure, but that doesn’t mean you can go crazy, or even ask for a lot of money.
If we’re talking about decks in particular, you have to look at what the properties around you have, and then try to match that. Buyers will compare properties in their price range within the neighborhood, so if you think you’re super fancy and slap on a huge number, you’ll simply price yourself out of what homes comparable to yours offer.
Stay in that realistic range, and a quality deck will always be a plus.
Conclusion
There’s no single feature that will guarantee a return on investment. Value isn’t that easy. In order to create actual value, you have to be careful with the design, the materials, and then, on top of that, you need to consider the conditions on the market.
With that being said, a quality deck is never going to be a con.
If it’s maintained and built right, it’ll always be a perk, and many people will be willing to pay a higher price because of it.