The Community amenities can increase the value of your home.
Sure home upgrades — the kitchen and master bathroom in particular — will increase the value of your home. But some community features are so attractive to buyers that they can increase your home’s value too. Here are eight community amenities you shouldn’t overlook.
1. Hiking trails
Hiking can give you a decent cardio workout while you enjoy the great outdoors. So communities with access to hiking trails are bound to attract house hunters. Who wouldn’t want to go for a hike right from home! What an attractive community amenity.
2. Mature trees
Developers sometimes cut down large, healthy trees since it’s often easier to do that — and plant new trees — than to preserve them. But those desirable, well-established neighborhoods buyers love often have a thriving, lush tree canopy. The shade and character offered by older trees can add more than just aesthetics. It is a heart thing….you need what the heart wants. It provides the feel of a family community.
3. Walkability
This is a trendy term. It means I can walk from home to shopping and entertainment. This can be a driving force for buyers.
4. Historic homes
Historic districts typically ooze character and charm, and are often located in walkable communities. That is because they are in the original downtown areas. They practically invite you to get out and explore your surroundings and learn about your neighborhood’s story.
5. Dog parks
Buyers like to purchase homes in communities with parks and green space, That can make neighborhood pet amenities like dog parks and walking trails even more desirable — even increasing nearby home values. A clean dog park with plenty of well-trained pets enjoying it can make a community look and feel friendlier.
6. Retail and essentials nearby
Whether you live in an urban or rural area, convenient access to essential services and shopping is key.
7. Future amenities
Find out what upgrades your city has in store by looking online for planning documents. They should reveal what improvements are planned and when they’re scheduled to be completed. Maybe you’ll find that desirable retailers such as Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, or Target are on the way, which could further boost home values once the stores are well-established.
8. Organized community groups
You might have heard the phrase “It takes a village to raise a child.” It also takes a “village” or group of active participants to keep up or improve a neighborhood. Strong community. Are there neighborhood clubs formed? That can provide the sense of community a buyer is looking for.
9. Community pool, recreation center
There may be a full fitness center, a place locals provide classes. This gives the community a nesting spot.