If you’re listing your home this spring or summer, we know you want to increase your home’s value and attract potential buyers. Did you know that building a deck could add thousands to your home’s appraised value? Adding a deck to your home is a great way to increase your ROI while appealing to more buyers, and it won’t break your bank. Before you get started building your deck, it’s important to know how and why a deck increases your home’s value. 

First and foremost, a deck adds definite appeal to your backyard. What really sells a home isn’t just the size of a house or property, but the functionality of the space. If buyers can see themselves actually using a deck, it is more impressive than a large, empty backyard. Decks are also very versatile, which broadens your home’s appeal. Since decks are great for, parties, events, dining, leisure and more, they appeal to buyers with children and buyers who want to entertain friends. 

Second, decks increase the size of your home. It’s a no-brainer that the larger the home, the greater the asking price. While deck space is not counted toward your home’s square footage, a well-made, functional deck can certainly make your home feel larger to potential buyers. Consider adding furniture, a fire pit or even a second story to your deck, which will make it feel even larger. You can also create a screened-in area to make a deck feel more like an extension of the house.

Third, you may be able to recoup nearly the entire cost of building a deck when it comes time to sell your house, and a deck is relatively no-fuss. Sure, an addition to your home is a terrific investment, but additional rooms can cost upwards of $300 per square foot to build. Building a deck is super cost-effective and can be done in a matter of weeks. 

Now that you know the benefits of building a deck, you can take the first steps toward building one. Many handy homeowners elect to build their own deck for maximum ROI, but hiring a contractor you trust is a great way to ensure that the job is done right. Your contractor should also meet the following criteria:

• Locally licensed
• Has proof of current contractor insurance
• Provides a warranty on the project
• Can complete the work in a timely manner that will not negatively impact your selling date
• Has experience working with the materials you want to use
• Has positive references from past clients

When shopping for a contractor, referrals are the gold standard. Don’t hesitate to ask friends, family or neighbors for recommendations if you see a well-made deck in their yard. You can also search contractors in your area and get a quote before making a decision. 

Network Real Estate can give you even more information on how to increase your property’s value to ensure maximum ROI. Contact one of our Realtors today to discuss how to get your home on the market at the price you deserve.

Kevin McKoy is a GRI-certified, licensed real estate broker at Network Real Estate, which has exclusively served a high volume of property sales and purchases in the greater Wilmington area for over 30 years. With three offices at College Road, Historic Downtown and Pleasure Island, Network’s brokers are widespread and well-versed in this marketplace, making Network a preferred Real Estate company for first-home buyers and beyond.