Q & A
We asked the agents of Nest Realty to share their insights, experiences, and opinions on how to expand outdoor spaces to be more inviting, more beautiful, and more fun. How do you bring the inside out? Scroll through these gorgeous images and tell us…how do your own backyard dreams compare to our flock of experts?
PREPPING FOR SALE
A solid 27% of Nest agents believe that a finished backyard is “extremely important” to prospective buyers. 62% say it is “somewhat important.” It pays to give those outdoor spaces some love.
PAVE YOUR OWN PATH
When it comes to backyard pathways, 46% of Nesters prefer natural materials such as flagstone, while almost 30% go for that poured-and-stamped perfect concrete look with customizable shapes. 25% scavenge the local Habitat and yard sales to make it their own.
IF MONEY WERE NO OBJECT…
48% of Nest agents and brokers would install a full outdoor spa replete with sauna, cold plunge, and outdoor shower. 45% said that if money were no object, they’d invest in a breathtaking firepit area.
INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION
With so many incredible garden styles out there in the world, Nesters are reticent to agree…but let’s just say we’re split almost 50/50 between Japanese Zen and Whimsical English. Manicured Italian, California Cool, and Vegas-style entertainment pad also ranked high on the list.
JUST ADD WATER
67% of Nesters say “nah” to water features— although 18% said they do have several water features and 15% asked if a bird bath counts (it does!).
FIRED UP
Perhaps the outdoor kitchen trend on social media hasn’t reached full bloom, because only 3% of Nesters boast having a full outdoor kitchen with a grill top, fridge, and counter space. However, 64% do have a grill and a full third say they are aspiring to up their outdoor cooking game. Grill owners also prefer gas over other fuels by a margin of 63%.
HOT OR COLD
Nesters are a bit conflicted on the cold plunge trend, although a strong 18% say they are fully on the cold-plunge bandwagon, citing ease of use and health benefits. But you can’t beat a hot tub, said 57% of respondents. That said, we can’t argue with the 25% who say they don’t want to deal with the maintenance.
The stunning backyard featured above belongs to Rich Schell and Greg Wragge of Rich Shell Interiors and Evan Guy. Photos by Fan Club Brands. Stay tuned for upcoming articles from the latest NEST Magazine for more insight into this duo’s fabulous home and gardens.
— We shared this “How Do You Bring the Inside Out ?”story with you in the Summer 2024 issue of NEST Magazine. To subscribe to NEST Magazine, click here — and be sure to follow us on Instagram @NestRealty