Topic Tuesday: The Outdoor Features Buyers Want Most in 2026

Last week’s Topic Tuesday about outdoor living generated a lot of interest and conversations. It seems many homeowners and buyers recognize that outdoor spaces have become much more than a backyard. They’re now an important part of how we enjoy our homes.

With that in mind, I wanted to follow up with another Topic Tuesday highlighting some of the outdoor living features buyers are seeking most today, based on a recent Forbes article examining current homeowner and buyer preferences.

For years, outdoor living spaces have been growing in importance. What began as a nice bonus has become a major factor in how buyers evaluate a home.

A recent study highlighted by Forbes found that homeowners continue to place a high value on outdoor environments that feel welcoming, functional, and easy to maintain. Landscaping, gathering spaces, and usable outdoor rooms remain at the top of many wish lists.

One trend stands out: buyers are looking beyond square footage. They are paying attention to how a property supports everyday living.

A thoughtfully designed backyard can become an extension of the home itself.

Features that continue to attract attention include:

• Comfortable patios and seating areas

• Fire pits and gathering spaces

• Outdoor kitchens and grilling stations

• Covered outdoor living areas

• Mature trees and attractive landscaping

• Low-maintenance designs that require less upkeep

Real estate experts also note that functional outdoor spaces often provide strong returns because buyers can immediately envision themselves enjoying the space. A patio with comfortable seating or a backyard designed for entertaining creates an emotional connection that an empty lawn simply cannot match.

The good news is that creating an appealing outdoor space does not always require a major renovation. Simple improvements such as adding seating areas, updating landscaping, improving lighting, or defining outdoor gathering zones can have a noticeable impact.

As summer settles into Spokane and Coeur d’Alene, outdoor living becomes one of the most enjoyable parts of homeownership. Whether you’re planning to stay for years or considering a future sale, investing in a welcoming outdoor environment is one of the best ways to enhance both enjoyment and buyer appeal.

If you’re curious which outdoor improvements make the most sense for your property, I’d be happy to share ideas specific to your home and neighborhood.

Source: Forbes, June 2026 Outdoor Living Trends Study.

Top Outdoor Features Buyers Want in 2026
A recent Forbes study found that buyers continue to place a premium on outdoor spaces that feel welcoming, functional, and easy to maintain. From patios and fire pits to outdoor kitchens and mature landscaping, today’s buyers are looking for outdoor areas that extend the living space beyond the walls of the home.