Backyard Renovations Ranked by ROI

For many, backyards can be a place of comfort and peace, a place to retreat to when the hectic energy of your house gets to be too much. And as important as the front and curb appeal is, the back exterior plays an important role in the value of your home.

Your backyard can essentially add square footage to your home and draw in buyers envisioning a lifestyle. Depending on the project you had in mind, some backyard renovations can bring in a return as high as 200%. We ranked the list of backyard renovations from highest to lowest return on investment (ROI).

backyard renovations by roi

Outdoor Kitchen: 100-200%

outdoor kitchen

Adding an outdoor kitchen has an average ROI of 100-200%. The luxury of having an outdoor kitchen allows you to have great outdoor dining space only footsteps away. If you enjoy entertaining and cooking, especially in the summer months, having an outdoor kitchen is an ideal renovation project. While having the highest ROI, this project is also ONE of the costliest, starting anywhere from 2K all the way up to 100K for top of the line appliances and more durable equipment.

Fire Pit: 150%

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According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, fire pits are ONE of the most requested items by owners today. Creating a fire pit, especially in the backyard, is a way to provide additional entertainment space adds Holly Henbest. Adding a portable fire pit can see an average ROI of 150%. Make sure it blends in with the landscape and there’s plenty of seating around so you can enjoy a comfortable outdoor space all year long.

Exterior Lighting: 50%

Patio: 30-60%

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While it yields a lower ROI, additions to the patio can help to change the mood and aesthetic of a backyard. The benefits of a patio are numerous, from having a place to enjoy the sun or for weekend entertaining purposes. Patios that see the biggest return on investment are ones that take in regard the proportion of the home and the land itself. It should be a balancing act so, that the patio doesn’t overtake the rest of the home.

Plants and Fixtures: $200

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If you’re looking for an easier project that doesn’t involve a high degree of planning, adding plants or fixtures is the equivalent of throwing a fresh coat of paint on the walls. It freshens up the space and adds points of visual interest to the area.

If you’re seriously considering renovating your backyard, give me a call to see what works best for your neighborhood – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Source:  http://blog.realtyonegroup.com/backyard-renovations-roi/

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3770 S Bridle Path Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$2,095,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,455 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6723781
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience unparalleled luxury, comfort, and security in Troon managed Flagstaff Ranch GC. The home is a meticulously designed Luxury Mountain Modern home nestled on a prime Golf Course Estate Lot. The residence has an attached 800 SF Casita with full kitchen and separate entrance for guests and extended family. This single-level residence boasts 2 covered decks featuring a large gas fire pit overlooking the 5th fairway with views of San Francisco Peaks. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with Wolf, Sub-Zero and Asko appliances, Quartzite counters and a 100+ bottle wine cooler. The living room features a floor-to-ceiling oversized fireplace crafted from imported Pennsylvania Blue Stone. Exquisite custom lighting, fixtures, whole-house sound, security, lighting, and temperature control.

8403 E Nightingale Star Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$2,095,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,194 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773929
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to add your personal touch to this stunning new build! The unique floor plan boasts a wealth of open and functional spaces designed for modern living. Experience the beauty of high ceilings and exposed beams that fill the home with natural light. Ideal for entertaining, this residence flows effortlessly between indoor and outdoor areas, complemented by a premium kitchen that features a high-end SKS appliance package, including a 48-inch dual-fuel pro range, an integrated column refrigerator/freezer, and a spacious center island with exquisite quartzite countertops. Each bedroom comes with its own ensuite bathroom, thoughtfully arranged in a contemporary split layout for added privacy. Seller incentives may include- window treatments, flooring in master bedroom switching out carpet, kids play area in backyard and more!

6235 W Almosta Ranch Road Prescott, AZ 86305

$2,085,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
5,774 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787685
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This contemporary home is a true masterpiece, offering a lifestyle of privacy and serenity. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Arizona landscape while enjoying all the comforts and amenities of modern living. This home is a testament to uncompromising quality and attention to detail. The interior boasts an open-concept design with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. High-end finishes, including custom cabinetry, hardwood flooring, and designer lighting, create an atmosphere of understated luxury. The chef's kitchen is a masterpiece, featuring top-of-the line Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. Click ''more'' to for additional details... More...

6235 W Almosta Ranch Road Prescott, AZ 86305

$2,085,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
-- SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787680
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

12322 E Black Rock Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,082,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,353 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763950
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*NEW CONSTRUCTION: SPRING 2025 COMPLETION. Interior Finishes have been added!* This modern Irini floor plan is under construction on an elevated home site! Features include an attached Casita with a separate entry, a private Courtyard, Great Room with a 90 degree sliding glass doors and 60'' linear fireplace, SS Wolf appliances, double wall ovens, 48'' Sub Zero Fridge and large study with wet bar. This is the low-maintenance, LUXURY, lock & leave home you have been waiting for! Located in the stunning guard-gated community, Sereno Canyon. The ultimate resort lifestyle community in North Scottsdale by Toll Brothers. Come take a tour today!

3412 E Kachina Drive Phoenix, AZ 85044

$2,075,000
3 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,639 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6778176
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This luxury Ahwatukee Custom Estates home is truly unforgettable, Enter into the private, serene front courtyard with gorgeous landscaping & fountain. You'll be amazed as you enter this home with its open floor plan, high ceilings, beautiful wood beams, four propane fireplaces, & three gathering/sitting areas. Oversized windows throughout the home frame the backdrop of South Mountain. All bedrooms have a private entrance, own bath, and walk-in closets. Chef's will delight in the gourmet kitchen complete with Viking and Subzero appliances & large butler's pantry. Your backyard oasis is perfect for entertaining with a sparkling pool, turf lawn, mature landscaping, BBQ and several seating areas all while backing to the preserve with stunning views. Don't miss this spectacular opportunity! Lastly, the expansive backyard includes a covered patio, extended flagstone seating area, a built-in BBQ, and a sparkling blue pool w/a rock waterfall! What are you waiting for? Act now!

5316 E Osborn Road Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,075,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,189 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783926
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful Arcadia ranch home is in the highly desirable Arcadia Osborn neighborhood within walking distance of Arcadia Park, Ingleside Middle School and Veritas Preparatory Academy. It is a short drive to Old Town Scottsdale and conveniently located near some of the best restaurants and shopping in Phoenix and Scottsdale. This gem offers 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bath plus a 560 SF Guest House with 1 bedroom/1 bath making this property a very rare offering. The Kitchen was meticulously updated 2021 by the current owner and features an oversized island with beautiful leathered granite, a gas cooktop, and provides space for plenty of counter top seating; the updated custom cabinetry in this kitchen provides ample storage for anything you may need. The Kitchen opens up to the Dining Room, Living Room and Library nook where the total space is under high vaulted ceilings that makes the home feel open and spacious. The private split Primary Bedroom features a vaulted ceiling, large closet and backyard views. The Primary Bathroom was updated in 2024 including a secluded water closet, dual vanities and a zero-entry shower with a heated towel bar. On the west side of the house sit the other 4 bedrooms. Two bedrooms share a Jack & Jill bathroom with a bathtub and shower as well as dual-sink vanity. The other two bedrooms have easy access to another full bath. Both bathrooms were fully remodeled in 2024 with granite countertops and new tile that surrounds the bathtub and showers. The powder room is conveniently located off the Kitchen, close to the Laundry Room. A very rare oversized side-entry 3 car garage offers an abundance of space for cars, toys, and plenty of storage. Off of the generously sized driveway is an RV gate with a concrete pad that leads to to a lush green back yard with a bubbling water fountain and an outdoor gas fireplace perfect for entertaining friends, family, and guests in the cool Arizona evenings. This is a very special property that offers a vignette view of Camelback Mountain & sits back from the street with a meandering grassy irrigated front yard plus a side courtyard & garden. Planted throughout the property are numerous mature shade and citrus trees that takes you back to a time when Arcadia was an active citrus grove, making you feel that you are in a special place. Come and make this one of kind a property your own!

9130 N Hummingbird Trail Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$2,075,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752059
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New construction with amazing views of Four Peaks & Redrock Mountain nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac near to Firerock Country Club! 3100 sf contemporary southwest home on 1+ acres. Open concept plan with soaring 12' ceilings in the great room, Bosch SS appliances with full size refrigerator, shaker style cabinetry, large kitchen island. Step outside to the sparkling pool and enjoy the beauty around you. In addition to the master suite there are 2 additional fully suited bedrooms and a den that is perfect for an office or additional bedroom. 4 car garage with 10' ceilings. Don't miss out on this opportunity to own a truly unique and beautiful property!

7120 N Clearwater Parkway Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,075,000
3 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,204 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6617694
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare offering in coveted Clearwater Hills! Find an unexpected pocket of natural beauty and safety in this mountainous guard-gated community. Clearwater Hills is a refuge from the traffic and sound of city life, where you are more likely to hear a coyote howl than a honking horn - yet it is just minutes from Arcadia and Biltmore restaurants, and less than 20 minutes from Sky Harbor. From the pool, look up at a ring of mountains. From the picture windows in the home, enjoy a view of distant city lights. This location is truly unique, and the home offers so many possibilities. This mid-century home offers 3 bedroom suites - a very spacious master with jetted tub and split shower, and two guest bedrooms with full bathrooms. (Continued in supplement...) Two powder rooms serve the main living areas. The master bedroom has a westward view of Piestewa, sitting area, dual closets, and opens to a balcony room enclosed by sliding doors. This flexible space is currently set up as a gym, but is just as easily used as a conservatory, a workspace or private lounge. This room overlooks a thriving natural wash area. The kitchen is updated with shaker cabinets, beautiful granite and newer appliances, including an induction cooktop and professional range hood. There is a seated peninsula and a kitchen table area. The formal dining area has a southward view which captures city lights at night; it is a dedicated space yet open to the large living area. From the front entry, you can look out on to two living spaces separated by back-to-back brick gas-burning fireplaces. The living areas are spacious with high ceilings and great natural light. The far side of the main living area a nice wet bar area for entertainment purposes, complete with beverage fridges. Large sliding glass doors open out on to a full-length covered veranda from every space along the back of the home, so you never lose view of your beautiful surroundings. Motorized roller shades offer privacy on the north facing windows at night. The powder room in the living area doubles as a pool bathroom as it opens onto the patio. The spacious pool deck is a step down from the home itself, offering privacy to swimmers while still feeling very open. A large pantry, laundry and utility room are right off of the kitchen, leading to the 2 -car garage. A large storage room runs along the back of the garage. The home has a newer roof as of 2019, and new flooring, stucco, & paint as of 2020. More recent upgrades include new HVAC units, new gas tankless water heater, plumbed gas to two fireplaces with remote fire controls, upgraded dishwasher, & new pool pump. While the character and quality of this home are lovely as-is, it would also be a great candidate for expansion or remodel. Buildable lots in the community garner high pricing and and a square footage addition or even a scrape and rebuild would be profitable in this location for a buyer with the right resources. 2nd story views from this location are easy to imagine by standing in the driveway looking out over the home - incredible!

3007 E Lowell Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$2,070,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,460 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6779219
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into a luxurious modern masterpiece on one of the largest lots in The Retreat—1.1 acres, a rare find in Gilbert, near San Tan Village Mall! This upgraded home blends elegance with functionality, featuring new flooring, custom limewash paint, and a striking iron staircase. The remodeled gourmet kitchen, equipped with $25k in premium appliances, flows into spacious living areas, ideal for entertaining. Outdoors, enjoy an enclosed kitchen for year-round gatherings, a beautiful stone fireplace, and a unique stone shower for a private oasis. Four new AC units ensure comfort, while a large sliding wall connects indoor and outdoor spaces. With a private theater, spa-inspired bathrooms, custom closets, and top-tier pool equipment, this residence is designed for sophisticated living.

13108 N 76th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$2,050,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,184 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787026
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
JUST LISTED IN 85260 - POOL just RE-PEBBLED/TILED. Newer ROOF. Newer TRANE AC Units in 2020 & 2019. This home is in the MIDDLE OF ALL that is HAPPENING in SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA! Located 2 min. from Kierland/Quarter & 10 minutes from Fashion Square. The PRIVATE LOT stretches 35,415 SF with a DETACHED GARAGE that holds 6 CARS! Maybe a Future CASITA? The home is 3,184 sf with GORGOUS WOODEN BEAMS on beautifully vaulted ceilings. The grand DINING ROOM opens to a SPACIOUS COVERED PATIO & oversized SPARKLING DIVING POOL! The patio has several entertaining areas with lots of OUTDOOR BAR-SEATING, a FORMAL DINING space with TV & a quaint COZY AREA to relax! RHINOSHIELD Ceramic Warranty. RV GATE & plenty of RV PARKING! Potential AirBnB Ready to Go! All furnishing available on a separate bill of sale

9998 E Taos Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,050,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,460 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6694885
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf Membership Available- Nestled within the serene embrace of Desert Mountain, this exquisite property in Renegade Trail embodies the essence of easy living and timeless elegance all year, as well as a perfect lock and leave for shortened stays. Proudly offered by its original owners, this meticulously crafted residence boasts a prime location, mere moments from the front gate, New Renegade Clubhouse and the Sonoran Fitness Clubhouse, ensuring effortless access to all the community has to offer. Stating a timeless Arizona contemporary style, this home welcomes you with its one level living, adorned with stacked stone accents and sleek metal facia showcasing clean lines and captivating angles. Step through the private gated courtyard, where tranquil cactus gardens and inviting sitting areas set the tone for the serenity found within. Geometric ceiling designs grace the central living spaces, where open wood plank ceilings soar from 9 to 17 feet, complemented by dropped perimeter ceilings with expansive clerestory windows, infusing the interiors with radiant natural light. The heart of the home unfolds seamlessly, inviting gatherings and fostering cherished moments. The great room, with a prominent fireplace, reclaimed barn wood floors, and expansive windows framing picturesque views, invites relaxation and conversation. Adjacent, a sophisticated office space awaits, offering a serene retreat with a slider to the patio, mitered corner windows, and a niche with built-in furniture piece. The expansive kitchen with stone tiled floors, spacious island with seating for 4 and plenty of storage will delight any chef. Enjoy casual meals and outdoor vistas within the kitchen space with table space for 4 and the slider to patio. For larger gatherings the adjacent dining space with continued geometric ceiling detail provides a pleasing as well as intimate backdrop for sharing meals with family and friends. The L-shaped wet bar ensures libations flow, adding to the ambiance of any gathering. Retreat to the private Primary Ensuite, a sanctuary of luxury and tranquility, presenting a two-sided fireplace, scraped hickory floors, and a slider to the serene patio oasis with raised cactus gardens and a soothing fountain. The ensuite bath pampers with dual vanities, a spa-like tub with stone surround, and a spacious walk-in shower, while the expansive walk-in closet ensures ample storage. Two additional ensuites offer comfort and privacy, each appointed with its own unique charm and character. Outside, the L-shaped patio beckons with its covered living areas, grilling station, and linear salt pool, offering the perfect setting for outdoor entertaining or serene relaxation. Enjoy vistas of blazing sunsets, the surrounding mountains and Sonoran Desert landscape, creating an idyllic backdrop for year-round privacy and outdoor enjoyment. Renegade Trail presents an unparalleled opportunity to partake in the world-class amenities of Desert Mountain, including 7 clubhouses, 7 golf courses, 20 miles of hiking trails, and a variety of dining options, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sonoran Desert landscape. Discover the epitome of desert luxury living in this remarkable Desert Mountain residence.

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