This Outdoor Feature Instantly Boosts Home Value — And It's So Simple

Certain outdoor features around the home have always been known to boost property values. Curb appeal is key to the front exterior, and everything from landscaping to pressure-washed pathways to a fresh coat of paint on the home can zhuzh up your property's appeal and value. In the backyard, it's all about cultivating idyllic outdoor living spaces. The usual prospects come to mind: a swimming pool, a screened-in patio, and even certain types of fencing can help increase property value. Surprisingly, one feature you might not have thought of that can instantly send your home's value skyrocketing is an outdoor TV.

According to research from Zillow, homes that include an outdoor TV can go for as much as 3.1% more than expected, which translates to over $10,000 more for the average home in the U.S. This increase was the highest price premium of the 359 home features Zillow analyzed across almost one million home sales in the report. While luxury backyard additions such as beverage centers, a she-shed, and outdoor kitchens also add to a home's value, an outdoor TV is far easier to DIY while maximizing the return on the investment.

However, before you drag your old TV to the patio, there's an important distinction to make. You'll need to invest in an outdoor smart TV, which is designed not only to withstand the elements but also to provide a better viewing experience outside. These features come at a higher price point than indoor TVs, generally ranging between $1,000 and $4,000, but the payoff in property value is clearly worth it.

It's best to decide where you'll install your outdoor TV before you shop for one. That's because outdoor TVs are designed for specific conditions. So if you are planning to put your TV in full sun, you'll need a different model than one that will go under a covered patio. They have options for various levels of sun exposure with innovations like anti-glare protection and increased nits — the measurement of light a screen emits. Every outdoor TV will also have an ideal temperature range to ensure it's right for your climate. Additionally, outdoor TVs have special features like an enclosure for water and dust protection (measured by IP rating), along with internal cooling fans to withstand humidity and extreme temperatures, and built-in outdoor speakers.

Mounting an outdoor TV as a feature of your patio or hardscape is a popular choice both for aesthetics and functionality. Be sure you get a weatherproof TV mount, as most indoor mounts are metal and not designed to withstand the elements, so corrosion and rust are likely. Finally, make sure you style an outdoor TV so it doesn't cramp your space. The selling point of being able to watch the game or a movie outside is to enjoy the great outdoors at the same time. So curating an outdoor space that is private and comfortable while optimizing the natural environment will transform your backyard into your favorite spot on your property — and a major draw for future buyers.