According to a recent poll commissioned by the TurfMutt Foundation and conducted online by The Harris Poll, nearly three-quarters of Americans overall (72%) say a spacious yard would be at the top of their wish list if they were looking for a new home. Since yards are a must-have feature for many buyers, savvy real estate professionals should tap into this to gain a competitive edge this buying season, says the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of the green space around us.
As more people are spending time outdoors including working, working out, dining and even vacationing — a trend the TurfMutt Foundation calls “backyarding” — there is a greater emphasis on homeowners personalizing their yards to suit their unique personalities.
By using TurfMutt’s backyard personality types as a guide, real estate agents can help clients find the best property where they can “yard their way.”
Landscaper
These clients plan to create a yard that makes neighbors green with envy. They are not afraid to put a little DIY effort into their lawncare and know how to maintain a healthy living landscape all year long. They understand the importance of putting the right plant in the right place, so their green space will thrive year-round. Plus, they have the latest outdoor power equipment — or will upgrade as needed for their new yard — to make even big jobs easier.
Outdoor Athlete
Forget basement workouts. This buyer wants an outdoor gym and exercise space that makes the neighborhood running club want to take a pit stop at their home. They are looking for a yard where they can stay active and inspire others to work out, as well.
Work from Home Pro
For this type of backyarder, working from home means that nature is their office and that backyard critters are their office mates. They plan to use living landscapes for their video call backdrops and sunlight to illuminate their workspace. They will prep for seasonal shifts by adding blankets, heat lamps or more to stay comfortable working outside year-round.
Nature Lover
These homeowners know that nature starts at their own backdoor, and their dream yard is also a haven for pollinators and backyard wildlife. They will spend their free time in the urban habitat of their living landscape watching and supporting the birds, bats, butterflies and other wildlife that count on their yard for food and shelter.
Kid Zone Creator
A true family type, this buyer is looking for a backyard to keep their children safe and entertained. They are interested in creating an outdoor fun zone their kids will never want to leave. Their wish list includes a flat area of sturdy turfgrass to play sports, ample areas for backyard activity zones and lots of trees for shade.
Pet Pamperer
According to recent research from Rover, 22% of Millennials with a pet chose to delay having kids or will not have kids at all, and 10% of all U.S. parents delayed having a child or decided not to in favor of getting a pet instead. If your client’s focus is on Fido, show them properties with an area of turfgrass that can stand up to pet play.
They will also want trees and shrubs that are strategically planted for shade and sectioning off the dog’s “business” area from the rest of the yard. As they plan their pet playground, they should be reminded to be aware of plants that are toxic. (For a complete list, visit ASPCA’s list of non-toxic and toxic plants.)
Entertainer Extraordinaire
Family milestones, birthdays, graduations, reunions and neighborhood barbecues make the yard the place to gather for this buyer. You will want to set them up for success by showing them yards with plenty of room for patio furniture, a fire pit, yard games, outdoor seating, string lights and perhaps an outdoor kitchen.
Zen Master
Buying a home can be a stressful proposition, and these clients plan to use their yard to de-stress and relax. Whether it is coffee in the morning or yoga in the afternoon, Zen Masters know that spending time outside is good for their health and well-being and will want a tranquil yard that can provide these benefits right outside their backdoor.
Kris Kiser
Outdoor Power Equipment Institute
TurfMutt Foundation
Equip Expo
1605 King St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
turfmutt.com
opei.org
(703)549-7600
