Signs of spring (and summer!) are cropping up everywhere, and for homeowners, that 
means readying outdoor spaces for the season. Some, according to a Houzz.com report, are planning to renovate, as well.
“Nearly half of outdoor renovators spend six or more hours a week in their yards, motivating them to invest in major features that transform the outdoors into additional living spaces,” says Nino Sitchinava, principal economist at Houzz.
Are you planning to renovate your outdoor space this year? Consider some common upgrades, suggests Sitchinava.
“Hardy plants, LED or solar lighting, and hardscapes in place of lawns are some of the popular low-maintenance choices. Some homeowners are also installing motion-sensitive lighting and precipitation-sensitive irrigation to minimize routine upkeep,” Sitchinava says.
According to the Houzz report, other oft-chosen updates include:
• Custom Spaces for Children/Pets
• Edible Plants and Herb Gardens
• Exploratory Paths
• Decorative Fencing and edging
• Hammocks
• Play/Climbing Structure
• Rainwater Harvesting System
• Toxin-Free Plants
• Trampolines, often installed at ground level for added safety
Here in Arizona, xeriscaping is a huge trend. This entails the use of indigenous plants and shade trees to minimize the use of water and conserve electricity used to cool your home. There are fantastic xeriscaping classes and seminars offered free of charge at most local libraries.
Timing will factor significantly into your project decision. The Houzz report shows the deterioration of outdoor elements is the top trigger for an upgrade, so if you have an outdoor feature in need of some TLC, now may be the time to invest in repairs or a replacement.
As far as cost is concerned, many outdoor projects are on the (relatively) low-end of the scale. Most homeowners, according the Houzz report, spend less than $5,000 on a project. To maximize the budget, many turn to the services of a landscape architect, contractor or designer.
Source: Houzz Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2016. All rights reserved.
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